The technology curriculum spans the entire school. Students begin to use technology in the Lower School as early as Pre-K and expanding to the 4th grade. Starting in Pre-K, we focus on exploration skills. In Kindergarten, students continue learning how to explore on a computer. They begin to learn some of the basics of word processing, including saving and printing. Guided use of the Internet begins in this grade. Students continue, in first and second grade, to develop word processing and Internet skills. In third grade, formal typing instruction begins. By fourth grade, students are able to use a variety of software to create multimedia projects. In addition to classroom computers, students in the Lower School have weekly scheduled time in the computer lab where they learn word processing, multimedia presentations, drawing programs, etc.

The Middle School's focus on technology spans two main areas. The first area is the Student Technology Education Program (STEP). This program is implemented fifth through 8th grade. It includes a set curriculum for each grade level, as well as a graduated license program that is designed to help students learn proper use of the Internet. To learn more about STEP, please click on the link on the left. The Middle School also has a special focus on the ethics of computer use as well as proper file management skills, email use and etiquette. In 5th and 6th grade, there are two Computers on Wheels (COWs) available for student use. In 7th grade, each student has his or her own tablet. 

The Upper School offers students the opportunity to take up to three courses relating to technology. These include Technology I, Technology II, Technology III, and Computer Science Advanced Placement. The main goal of each course is to teach students how to use technology in their day-to-day lives with the ultimate goal of preparing them for college. Students in 7th through 12th grades use personal tablet PCs in the classroom and at home. Read more about the Tablet PC Program.

Steve Compton, Director of Technology
comptons@franklinroadacademy.com