Thomas B. Conley School

Grades K–4 • Asbury, New Jersey 

The Thomas B. Conley School’s “Team Up for Technology” program helps integrate new technology into the curriculum. Teachers who felt more confident using available technology immediately developed activities for their classrooms and then teamed up with those with less technologically-experienced. While one teacher received coaching from her partner, students from different classes worked in pairs to teach their partners how to use computer technology. Students who quickly learned the procedures also assisted their teachers in implementation. Also, parents with technological expertise serve as classroom technology aids. This practice is now a regular part of the technology program, contributing to character development by promoting core ethical values and creating a caring school community. Students gain confidence through practical, relevant applications of what they are learning. They further realize that everyone can be both a learner and a teacher.The program has expanded into other areas including reading buddies and pen pals. Students emerge as sensitive individuals who are part of a caring learning community.