Savannah School District Receives Boost from SRNS for Innovative Learning
In the charming town of Savannah, an exciting development is unfolding for students in the Aiken County Public School District. The Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) has stepped up to support educational efforts by providing a generous sponsorship of $20,000 to the Center for Innovative Learning (CIL) at Pinecrest. This contribution is set to make a significant difference, allowing the purchase of 30 laptops and a charging station primarily for the mathematics department. The aim? To enhance educational opportunities for students, particularly those who may struggle in traditional classroom settings.
A Focus on Inclusion and Innovative Teaching
The new equipment is particularly exciting for Khaleelah Stroman, a Middle Level Mathematics Educator at CIL. She is eager to incorporate these laptops into her teaching methodologies. By utilizing modern tools like virtual manipulatives, Ms. Stroman plans to elevate how her students engage with math concepts. “Learning and being able to apply mathematics is crucial for student success,” she mentions, highlighting the shift in teaching dynamics that technology can bring.
Virtual manipulatives can make abstract math concepts more concrete. The integration of such tools will help tackle the often overwhelming math standards that students face, enhancing their conceptual understanding and fostering a more interactive learning environment.
Access to Valuable Online Resources
With the introduction of these laptops, students will gain access to a wide range of engaging online resources, including Math Nation, Illustrative Math, Desmos, Aleks, Kahoot, and Quizlet. These platforms are designed to create dynamic, individualized learning experiences. Prior to this sponsorship, the educators at CIL faced challenges with technology limitations, often sharing a small number of laptops, which hindered their ability to assess students’ mastery of math standards effectively.
“The laptops will significantly alleviate our limitations,” remarks Sandra Smith, a High School Mathematics Educator at CIL. She continues, “This means we can use online lecture videos, assessments, and educational games more effectively.” With the anticipated impact, it is estimated that this initiative will benefit at least 350 students annually—an incredible opportunity for the students at CIL.
Community Commitment to Education
“We are thrilled to support the Center for Innovative Learning at Pinecrest in providing tailored and meaningful educational experiences to students who need it most,” expressed Dennis Carr, President and CEO of SRNS. He noted the ongoing commitment of the organization to invest in programs that inspire learning, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Carr emphasized that access to modern technology is crucial for educational advancement and expressed excitement over the positive changes that this funding would bring.
For those unfamiliar, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions is a partnership between Fluor and HII and manages the operations of the Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site located just outside of Aiken, South Carolina. Their involvement in local education reflects a wider commitment to fostering growth in the region.
Looking Ahead
This sponsorship marks a significant moment not just for the CIL at Pinecrest but for the entire community. As education continues to evolve, initiatives like this pave the way for more inclusive and resource-rich learning environments. With the inclusion of technology in classrooms, students are not only offered up-to-date tools for learning but also the chance to engage in their education in new and exciting ways.
Excitement buzzes through the halls of CIL as teachers and students alike look forward to what the future holds. This vibrant contribution provides a stepping stone for a brighter educational journey that can directly influence young minds and cultivate their potential for success.
