Paul Elementary in south-central Idaho celebrated a new technology contract Friday afternoon. It brings an Apple iPad to every student and teacher, the contract puts laptops in every classroom, and provides for building wide tech support.
The event brought out Lieutenant Governor Brad Little, Speaker of the House Scott Bedke, and several other Idaho officials.
The school has signed a contract with a Utah based company called iSchools Campus.
Minidoka District Superintendent Scott Roberts says it’s a three year deal worth about $600,000, but iSchools Campus is covering the cost of the first year. Roberts says he jumped on the opportunity when it was suggested to him by state Sen. Dean Cameron.
Roberts says this system of integrating technology into every aspect of a school environment will revolutionize learning and teaching.
iSchools Campus was founded last year and has previously outfitted three Utah schools with technology using state funds set aside for the purpose. Schools that get the iSchools Campus package become "smart schools certified" from an organization called the Smart Schools Technology Association. The association and the company share the same Park City Utah address.