As a leader in the use of instructional technology Saint Francis High School has invested in numerous technologies over the last ten years to enhance the learning environment. In 2012 we launched a comprehensive initiative to place an iPad into every student's hand.
After reviewing numerous devices in 2012 it was determined that the program would use the 32GB version of the third generation Apple iPad. In 2015 the iPads were replaced with new 32GB iPad Airs. Families are not charged an additional fee for the device. The school owns the iPads and loans them to each student. Professional development specifically focused on the iPad is on-going. Students receive their iPads on Registration Days.
Additionally, as part of the program we have expanded our technical support to a student-to-student program as part of our helpdesk in the Cassin Library during each lunch and collaboration. This program is led by Mr. Nigel Marrion, our iPad Program Manager. This program allows students to get peer-led, faculty-guided assistance with any technical question that might come up during the iPad program.
For our employees we also enhanced the program by hiring Alex Bega and Matt Maguire as our Educational Technologists to work directly with teachers and to assist with new ways to approach teaching and learning in the classroom. As current classroom teachers they are on the front line with respect to evaluating best practices for the effective use of iPads in our classrooms. Through the innovation and enthusiasm that they provide we expect the new year to better than ever.
Behind the scenes we are always evaluating new technologies and apps for student use. We continue to benefit from a Cisco-driven wireless infrastructure and Airwave by Aruba Networks. These allow us to deliver a high-quality networking experience for all students.
One of our primary goals for the one-to-one program was to improve the quality of life for all students. A tangible manifestation of this is through the reduction in the number of physical textbooks that students must carry with them. We are please to announce that over 50% of all textbooks and novels are available in digital form. We also recognize that many students still prefer to use a physical text. For many courses this is also still an option. We are excited to see the developments in the fields of eBooks and the use of alternative forms of content to supplement direct instruction.