Rowland Unified K-8 Academy One of Only 8 Schools in California
To Receive Prestigious Technology Award
WALNUT, CA – JANUARY 7, 2010 – After only two years of launching its innovative One to One Laptop Learning Program, Stanley G. Oswalt Academy has just been named an Apple Distinguished School, one of only eight schools in California recognized for this prestigious technology award. The Apple Distinguished School designation is reserved for schools that have become centers of educational excellence and leadership, consistently demonstrating “best practice” qualities of a 21st century learning environment utilizing Apple technology.
“We are thrilled to be recognized as an Apple Distinguished School after just two years of implementing the One to One Laptop Learning Program. The commitment from our staff, students and parents has contributed to the success of the One to One Laptop Learning Program and the newly implemented iPod touch Program,” said Oswalt Principal Astrid Ramirez.
One of the key reasons Oswalt was selected for the award was because of the enormous growth in academic achievement it has experienced. Since implementing the One to One Laptop Learning Program in October of 2008, the school has seen a 14% increase on English Language scores for 6th grade students in one year. All students and teachers in 5th-7th grades use Apple MacBook computers for 24/7 access to pre-loaded grade level textbooks and digital authoring applications. Teachers and students are constantly connected using blogs, podcasts and multi-media based projects for learning. Students in grades 2-4 are using iPod touch to increase reading fluency, reading comprehension and the attainment of standards-based skills.
Oswalt Academy also received official notice last month that they are a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, an international curriculum designed for students aged 3 to 12. The program focuses on the development of the whole child as a learner that utilizes an inquiry approach and develops international-minded students, engages students to be critical thinkers, risk takers, problem-solvers, and caring individuals who are community service minded. Foreign Language is also a component of the program. There are currently only 14 authorized PYP schools in California, 178 in the nation and 587 globally. Before being granted IB World School status, a delegation appointed by IB will schedule a school visit to Oswalt in the spring and report on their progress and capacity to deliver the programme. Final application paperwork must then be submitted before they can be authorized.
Stanley G. Oswalt Academy is a K-8 school in the Rowland Unified School District, located at 19501 Shadow Oak Drive in Walnut. Principal Astrid Ramirez can be reached at (626) 810-4109.
Photos of 3rd Grade Oswalt Teacher Ms. Azanzaz's class using the iPod Touch for reading comprehension, vocabulary and math skills, and more!