Buffalo Ridge Elementary plans to increase the student’s use of technology in the assignments they prepare for class. The idea is not to simply teach students how to type and print a document, but rather to allow students to use technology collectively with other students in research and in presentations of what they have learned.

In May of last year the school’s parent group, BREA implemented a pledge drive to work towards the goal of increasing technology at Buffalo Ridge. Currently, the BREA pledge drive has raised nearly $7,000, but is still working towards its goal of $50,000. Along with support from the Douglas County School District the school was able to purchase several new computers for student use, increase Internet bandwidth and greater hard drive storage as well as provide training for the teaching staff.

These additions will allow students to increase their hands-on computer usage from just over two hours a month to up to 30 hours. The curriculum that will be taught includes specific use of Microsoft applications including MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Students will also learn to navigate the World Wide Web with Internet search engines. In the process general computer use and keyboarding will also be taught.

To learn more, call BRE at 303-387-5575, or visit www.dcsd.k12.co.us/elementary/bre.