Centre to get ‘smart’ boards

By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

From blackboards to whiteboards to interactive boards, technology in classrooms at Centre schools will rise to a new level this fall with the addition of interactive boards.

At its Monday meeting, the school board approved purchase of 22 Newline TruTouch UB panels for $80,995.

The 75-inch wide panels are interactive white boards that replace overhead projectors and are meant to increase student engagement.

Just like a blackboard, more than one will be able to use the board at a time. Users can write on the board with their own fingers.

The touch screen can be manipulated like screens on phones and tablets — tap, pinch, scroll.

Superintendent Susan Beeson said teachers were excited about using the new technology.

The school board accepted a final payment of $1,500 from Centre Perk, a coffee shop established by business students in the school lobby in March 2012 with a $5,000 loan from the district. It also serves as a concession stand.

The board took many actions in preparation for a new school year

Beeson also explained the district’s proposed budget. State student aid will increase $159 per full-time student.

Two out-of-district children were approved to attend Centre schools. Connor Pitts of Herington will be in first grade. Isabella Felpel of Herington will be in pre-school.