Technology & STEAM Education

The Mission of Lake Bluff School District 65, is to provide each student with quality instruction, learning opportunities, and educational environments that inspire academic achievement, personal growth and responsible citizenship.  
 
To assist in achieving this mission, each student in grades two through eight is provided with a personal learning device to take home.  In pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade students begin using iPads in the classroom to explore technology and learning with their teachers.  The devices are often used to promote extended learning opportunities and to engage in social situations in a safe environment.
 
We believe:
 
  • Personalized learning devices allow our students to achieve at higher levels.
  • The use of technology in our classrooms enhances outstanding instruction provided by our classroom teachers and support team.
  • We must teach students to utilize technology and devices appropriately if they are going to be active and responsible citizens in our schools.
  • Students must be aware of and understand how to respond to issues they might encounter online.

1:1 Device Guidelines

Our Technology Team has spent some time outlining what we expect of students and parents in terms of the use of their devices.  You can find our 1:1 device guidelines, including a list of frequently used websites and apps, by clicking here (link opens in a new window).

The ISTE Standards

Lake Bluff School District 65 believes that today’s students must be prepared to thrive in a constantly evolving technological landscape. The Interntational Society for Technolgy Educators (ISTE) has created a set of standards to align instruction and ensure students are utilizing technology safely, efficiently, and productively.  The ISTE StandardsISTE Logo for Students are designed to empower student voice and ensure that learning is a student-driven process.  The seven standards are different than other content area standards in that they are not meant to be used in isolation.   Rather, the ISTE standards are meant to be integrated into other content areas.  For example, as our teachers engage our students with Google Classroom and other learner tools, we discuss the idea of having a "digital footprint" and the fact that a digital footprint is permanent.  The seven ISTE standards are outlined below:

At Lake Bluff Elementary School, in addition to regular instruction, students have the opportunity to participate in the Lego Robotics Club.  Once students reach middle school, a rotation during their fine arts class allows them to explore STEAM for a period of six weeks each year.