Sixth graders at Hilmar Middle School started off the new year with a tech upgrade.  Through collective efforts from school site funds, students and faculty received 200 Netbooks to enhance learning in the classroom.

“The students are very excited to use Netbooks for the first time in the classroom,” said Hilmar Middle School Principal Eric Hixson.  “Teachers are taking advantage of this new form of technology to teach students in creative and different ways, and in return, students are effectively using the resources given to them to learn.”

Through the use of Netbooks, students have access to educational videos on YouTube, online research for classroom projects, and word processing programs.

“Some teachers use Netbooks as an online assessment for students,” added Hixson.  “Netbooks can also be taken home and be used for homework purposes.”

Although the use of Netbooks is only available to sixth graders, other grade level students are able to use computers from home to integrate them in the classroom. Students will be able to use the Netbooks throughout their three years at Hilmar.  If they wish to purchase a Netbook after their eighth grade year, discounts are available through the school.

“I strongly encourage other districts to consider purchasing Netbooks for their students,” said Hixson.  “It is a great investment and you cannot put a price in education when technology is put to good use.”