Beginning a Take-home 1:1 Program

Warsaw Community Schools (WCS) is a rural school corporation of 7200 students located in northern Indiana. The school corporation has 52% free and reduced population, and a 20% English Language Learner population. Warsaw is known as the Orthopedic Manufacturing Capital of the World, the duck farming capital of the world, and has the largest soy diesel manufacturing plant in the United States. The diverse industry has created a melting pot of diversity and culture exemplified by the 36 native languages within their school system.

The Challenge

Warsaw Community Schools (WCS) had adopted significant educational technology, but had not yet begun a take-home 1:1 program. Data indicated that teachers needed significant professional development in order for a 1:1 program to accelerate learning.

The Solution

WCS applied for and received a $100,000 classroom innovation grant from the Indiana Department of Education. $75,000 of those funds were used to address professional learning needs for teachers and the remaining $25,000 was used to offset the cost of the classroom device. The district chose to implement mini tablets for 6th grade students throughout the district because teachers had already been competently using full-size tablets. The results have been incredible, with the classroom data indicating a major shift in learning and skill acquisition.

From the U.S. Department of Education:

• Future Ready Schools: Building Technology Infrastructure for Learning

District Point of Contact

Phone: 574-371-5098
E-mail: welisten@warsaw.k12.in.us