Howe Independent School District Class of 2016 redefines teaching and learning

Howe, Texas  – This May, the Howe ISD Class of 2016 will graduate as the first class ever to benefit from 1:1 computing devices from elementary through middle and high schools. It was nine years ago when Howe ISD envisioned a new type of learning environment for its students. At the center of this partnership were 82 fourth grade students who would graduate in the Class of 2016.

Terisa O’Dowd, Technology Director at Howe ISD commented, “In the beginning, we started a pilot program by providing every fourth grade student and teacher with a wireless computing device. We then installed mounted projectors and document cameras in all fourth-grade classrooms and strengthened our wireless network to support the initiative.  Additionally, the teachers agreed to attend curriculum and technology integration training throughout the year.”

As the Class of 2016 progressed through the Howe ISD schools, so did technology and staff development.  Every year, teachers made a commitment to attend training and, in return, their grade level was equipped with 21st century learning tools. Two key concepts emerged: technology access and student-centered collaborative classrooms. The shift that our leaders had envisioned began to take shape. Teachers began redefining the way they engaged students within their curriculum.  Project-based tools helped teachers incorporate digital literacy, critical thinking and problem-solving fostering collaboration in the classroom.  Electronic textbooks provided students with updated and interactive content.  Students began accessing assignments and grades through online learning management systems. Students and teachers embraced cooperative to share ideas.       

Nine years ago, the Class of 2016 began a journey and became the model for all students within Howe ISD. 

"Today, the vision that started as a collaboration between teachers, students, parents and the community has allowed Howe ISD to transform our classrooms into collaborative learning environments," says O’Dowd.

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