Crescent Deploys Laptop Computer
Thursday, August 14, 2008
By Mark Radford, The Crescent Courier

According to Crescent Superintendent Steve Shiever, Crescent is the only high school in Oklahoma handing out laptop computers to all of its high school students.

Students in grades 9-12 gathered in the carpet gym, heard the do's and don'ts, the rules and policies and then were handed a computer that would be thier friend, foe, and constant companion for the next school year.

Over 200 Apple Mavbooks were handed out along with a power brick and the power cord. The computers will be utilized for teaching and learning in a distinctive 1 to 1 teaching environment utilizing web-based curriculum.

Many teachers have been busy this summer working on the web based curriculum to be prepared for this new venture.

The computers, for the most part, will take the place of text books. Students will still need paper and pencils.

Students who pay a $70.00 insurance fee will be allowed to take their computers home with them at the end of the day.

If the insurance is not paid, then the computer will remain docked at school, ready to be used the next day. Parents are encouraged to purchase the insurance, and if payment is a problem, they can contact the school for additional information. The school has set up a two payment plan policy to help.

The comprehensive insurance is not a money maker for the school, but provided coverage for almost all damage or loss to the laptop.

Mr. Shiever has remarked more than once, that he wants to encourage students to take the computer home, allow parents to use them and to become involved in the internet based curriculum and education.

Classes for parents will be offered soon to assist parents who desire addtional help.

Carrying bags were also to be handed out, but they have not arrived from Apple. The computers will not be allowed to leave the school until carrying bags have been handed out.

Parents are encouraged to call the school and discuss the use of and applications the computers will provide for their child's learning experience.

Wednesday was a history making day in Crescent. By many accounts, Crescent schools has set a high bar in seconday education.