Video: Students See Benefits Of Bond Package

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TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – Students in the Tupelo Public School District are reaping the benefits of a recent bond election.  This past spring,  voters approved a 44 million dollar bond package for various upgrades and renovations.

WCBI’s Allie Martin shows us how sixth graders are enjoying the latest technology in virtually every subject.

For the most part,  Chromebooks have replaced textbooks in this math class at Milam Elementary.

Kaytlan Sisk uses the Chromebooks in all three of her math classes.  She says having the latest technology helps the students better prepare for the all important state tests.

“We definitely make sure our students have practice and practice on these computers, making sure they are very comfortable when those tests come around at the end of the year,” Sisk said.

The district has Chromebooks for students at Milam Elementary and Tupelo Junior High School.  Students do not take the Chromebooks home with them, and unlike MacBooks, the Chromebooks can be shared, and they are much cheaper up front and there are other advantages.

“My kids are able to practice the way they play and we’re a little farther ahead than most other schools,” said Principal Paul Moton.

Although the state tests are huge and a big part of any school’s focus, teachers and administrators are quick to point out the new technology is not just about preparing students to take a test, more importantly, it is about preparing students for their future.

“I definitely do a lot with the daily learning environment in my classroom, we have programs such Haiku, which our students use,  also have various websites with math videos for students to watch, so for instance one day in class I might put a small group to watch a math video while I work one on one with another group of students,” Sisk said.

Principal Moton believes the new technology in the classroom, coupled with top notch teachers and strong community support will help propel Milam and the district to new heights and an even better rating.

“We’re shooting for an A. We’re right there, we’re just waiting to take the test,  it’s just a matter of time for us,” he said.

The bond issue set aside 211 thousand dollars for chromebooks for Milam and the junior high school.