In contrast to a high school with its own technology center, MagneTech is a school within a school, designed to serve 100 at-risk third graders each year and provide them with a learning experience in language arts and mathematics so positive it will equip them to succeed in later grades. Four years old, MagneTech is housed in Lawton's Jefferson Elementary but has its own staff of seven teachers, one assistant principal, and one principal. According to Bill Johnson, Lawton's computer coordinator, computer technology is central to MagneTech's goal of enhancing both student self concept and academic achievement. Johnny Appleseed Day at MagneTech MagneTech employs the full range of Josten Learning System courseware, has a computer laboratory with 30 Macintosh LC2's and CD ROM's, and is equipped with another five computers in each classroom.
Students also have access to LCD panels, scanners, and laser printers.
All this equipment is networked, and is used routinely for administrative as well as curricular applications. Lawton's Cameron University is monitoring the project, says Johnson. And the scores were up across the board, in all areas. In addition, the IQ scores of 20 students increased by one standard deviation. Their social and study skills improve.