Our spacious and sunny library is now located in the new building and is readily available for all students to select and return books, do research, or simply curl up and read at lunch time. Our full-time librarian meets once per week with each class to introduce children to literature and teach students how to use books and computers to find information. In addition, our librarian meets and plans with K-5 faculty regularly so that the teaching of research resources and skills is meaningfully incorporated into each classroom and grade level curriculum. The Windrush media and technology program is adapted from the nationally-recognized State of Wisconsin Standards.
Computers
Students learn to use computers as at tool for learning, a resource for information as well as problem solving, data analysis, communication and expression. Windrush students are taught new computer skills by using educational software, both in the classrooms and in the computer lab. Computers in each classroom and in the lab are equipped with Internet access.
Formal instruction begins in the first grade, when students attend weekly classes in the computer lab, taught by our full-time technology specialist. Young students are given the opportunity to learn computer programs that encourage creativity and investigation through open-ended exploration. Specific lessons consider the developmental skills of the individual child and familiarize students with basic operating routines and keyboarding skills. As students advance, they take on more sophisticated projects such as creating home pages and multimedia projects, exploring the Internet, and publishing literary magazines, yearbooks, and newsletters.
Computer instruction is generally integrated with current classroom projects so that the lessons enrich and broaden the learning experience. Research, organization, and editing skills are introduced as needed in the regular curriculum. Classroom teachers work with the technology specialist to encourage creative use of technology for longer term projects. Access to a laptop cart begins in earnest in 5th grade and continues through middle school.
