Once again, Orange County Public Schools receives recognition for its innovative implementation and use of educational technology. The International Society for Technology Education selected OCPS as an ISTE Distinguished District Award.
The Distinguished District Award honors districts that:
- Demonstrate effectiveness and innovation in the use of educational technology.
- Ensure equitable, accessible and appropriate learning opportunities for all students, aimed at improving outcomes and increasing engagement.
- Exhibit a progressive mindset when it comes to challenges in education and embrace new ideas and act on them.
OCPS began its 1:1 digital device initiative in 2013, piloting the program at seven schools. Today, all 202 schools’ students and teachers receive a digital device for the academic year. Additionally, with the assistance of educational partnerships, families who need assistance with internet access can receive a hotspot or low-cost services. This forward thinking was especially helpful during the pandemic. Each student having a device afforded families the opportunity to choose the best educational model for their family: face-to-face or LaunchED@Home.
The district congratulates the team who implemented and supported schools and families with the transition to meaningful digital learning and for being pioneers in the education industry.
Pictured above: Mariel Milano, director, digital curriculum; Robert Bixler, associate superintendent, curriculum and digital learning; David Gorham, director, elementary curriculum and instruction; Marcella Wheeler, director, instructional systems; Maurice Draggon, senior director, digital learning; Dr. James Russo, senior director, curriculum and instruction; Allison Kibbey, director, instructional technology and library media.