New technology that will enable Davis students to take online standardized tests is on its way to local classrooms, thanks to a vote Thursday by the Board of Education.

In a special meeting Thursday afternoon, trustees approved funds for the purchase of 335 new computers. After the devices are installed, the Davis school district will have enough up-to-date computers to allow participation in this spring’s trial run of the new statewide MAPP tests.

The new tests replace the old statewide STAR tests, which were designed in the 1990s and are being retired. They will reflect the Common Core academic standards that California and most other states have adopted, and will be administered online, rather than as multiple-choice tests using paper and pencil.

The vote by the school board was unanimous, with trustees Nancy Peterson, Susan Lovenburg and Sheila Allen voting. Trustees Gina Daleiden and Tim Taylor were absent.

Specifically, the trustees approved a contract that will provide 35 new Dell computers for each of the following elementary campuses: Birch Lane, Chávez, Patwin, Pioneer and Willett. Holmes Junior High will get 55 new computers  Emerson Junior High will get 35 and Davis High will get 70.

The Davis school district received $1.6 million from the state to implement the transition to the Common Core standards, and is using a portion of that money to purchase the new computers and update the computer rooms. The remaining funds are being used for professional development and training and instructional supplies.

The plan is to “refresh” 10 computer labs with outdated equipment over spring break, March 24-28, said Kim Wallace, the school district’s director of instructional technology.

— Reach Jeff Hudson at [email protected] or 530-747-8055.

Comments

comments