Richland Schools: High-Tech Learning, Hometown Heart
Geographically speaking, Richland Schools in rural Essex are a bit removed from things -- but they are far from out of touch. You could even say that Richland Schools are on the leading edge of education.
"We are a very rural school with a rural student population -- it's a great student population to have," says Frank Killian, superintendent for the Richland R-1 School District, a reorganized school district serving the Essex and Grayridge (Mo.) areas.
Currently, the student population stands between 250 and 275. That small size, however, seems to offer some big benefits.
"A school district this size is not run like a business, it's more like a family. That's the biggest advantage we have over a bigger city school -- the amount of love and care that's given to a school district this size," says Killian.
In spite of their small size, these schools invest big-time in technology.
"Even though we're a small school, we're one of the leading schools as far as technology," says Killian. "That's why our test scores are always as good as they are."
In fact, for about 10 years running, Richland students have achieved "distinction in performance" in their test scores -- an honor that requires school districts to meet at least 13 out of 14 performance standards.
Those enviable test scores are a testament to the high-tech learning environment emphasized at Richland Schools.
For example, chalkboards are a relic of the past. Instead, every classroom at Richland is equipped with a "smart board" -- a computerized, interactive white board. The popular tool makes it easier for teachers and students to work together on lessons using touch technology that today's kids are comfortable with.
"The smart board allows teachers to take what they see on their computer screen and put it in front of the class for kids to see and touch," says Killian.
And those ever-popular iPads can be found in all of Richland's K-8 classrooms. The school also plans to use next generation Chromebook computers for one-on-one work at the third and eighth grade levels.
In another cutting-edge application, high school students will use their cell phones for something other than texting.
Richland educators have found ways for students' cell phones to interact with classroom smart boards, so they are launching a 'bring your own device' program that will allow kids to use their cell phones for learning.