Back in the 1990s, teachers like Mr. Simone, Mrs. White and Mrs. Faggioni could be seen in the social studies department using a mimeograph machine. This bulky device produced copies with wet, purple ink that often still had an odor.

How drastically technology can change.

At the opening of the 2014-2015 school year, every social studies teacher in the district was given a Microsoft Surface Pro 3 computer for professional use. The technology department is piloting this tablet program to investigate its usefulness for the entire teaching staff.

“It’s hard to believe that I began my teaching career with a machine that is now considered harmful to the environment, and now I have wireless access to the internet throughout the building,” said Mrs. White, now in her 23^rd year in the district.

The man responsible for this technology initiative is Mr. Christopher Nelson, Director of Student Achievement and Instructional Technologies. Mr. Nelson, currently in his second year in the Sewanhaka Central High School District, had made updating technology a priority on his agenda. He is already earning tremendous accolades for his work.

“I have been extremely impressed with his commitment to creating a 21^st century learning environment for the students of the Sewanhaka district,” said Mr. Simone, currently in his 21st year teaching in the district. “The district is quite fortunate to have him in this vital role. I am eager to see what further improvements he makes in the future.”

The Microsoft Surface Pro tablets are advertised as having the best features of a laptop and ipad. This lightweight product has a detachable keyboard, strong battery life and pen that can be used as a mouse.

According to the abstract that was delivered to all participants in the pilot program, the decision to implement this initiative was based on surveys that indicated teachers’ eagerness to incorporate mobile technologies in the classroom. After a few months, the response has been quite positive from the teachers. Prior to this program, teachers in the social studies department had to share three office computers. Now, they have the luxury of unlimited computer access. In addition, teachers can use their tablets to wireless print and connect to the proxima machines in their classrooms.

“Having the Microsoft tablet has definitely made my life easier,” said Mrs. Belesis. “This has been the best technology improvement I’ve seen in the district.”

From purple, wet ink handouts to wireless, portable internet access. What a difference two decades can make.