Several innovative educational programs were spotlighted during Tuesday's hearing to address issues raised in the commission's draft report, said Karen Adams, dean of Western's College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. The goal of the Barren County school district's technology program is to ensure that all graduates have a working knowledge of current technology, said Steve Gumm, engineer for the district. Technology education begins in kindergarten and progresses through the senior year with instruction in computer basics, Internet research, web site design, video production and training in various applications. At the high school level, technology is integrated in all courses, including the student technology help desk. The help desk provides benefits for students, teachers and the school district, Gumm said.
Students receive real world training and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The district's increased level of technical support includes improved maintenance, immediate answers to problems and lower cost of ownership. Housing Authority of Bowling Green A collaboration between the Housing Authority and Western Kentucky University's College of Education and Behavioral Sciences is providing increased opportunities for teacher education students and is providing support for young students in the community. Even the nation's most talented students need challenges in the senior year, said Julia Roberts, director of WKU's Center for Gifted Studies. Students must take advantage of challenging and rigorous courses and become better prepared for college academic work, Dr. Roberts said. Educators must provide challenging learning activities and rigorous classes and parents must encourage their children to take those courses and improve their preparation, she said.