With technology, it is possible to open the doorway to imagination, understanding, and comprehension with the touch of a finger. Technology gives us the ability to reach the minds and hearts of people around the world, to be inspired by remarkable innovations, and to be engaged in ways that cultivate knowledge and mastery. For both faculty and students, access to top-notch technology is imperative in the modern global educational race. Students who strive for excellence and distinction need the appropriate tools to stimulate and encourage their immeasurable potential.  

An acute awareness of the possibilities and needs of the 21st century student led the International School of the Peninsula to launch its first phase of a two-part technology project in 2007. Last year’s successful Fund-a-Need raised approximately $110,000, which in addition to annual budgetary funds, helped ISTP to purchase 14 interactive SMART Boards, 21 classroom screens, 3 projectors on portable carts, and 45 laptop computers for faculty members.

Once the second phase of this project is complete, every teacher will have access to their own laptop with all the software used at school, and every classroom on the Cohn Campus will have an interactive whiteboard. A good number of faculty still need to be equipped with laptops at a cost of $2,000 each, including software. A remaining 15 rooms need to be equipped with an interactive whiteboard at a cost of $4,500 per board. In addition, continual technology professional development will be offered to teachers  internally, as well as allowing them to attend outside workshops, classes and conferences.

When asked how the SMART Boards and laptops affected her work, a middle school teacher answered, “I cannot imagine life without the laptop and SMART Board. Thank you so much for your efforts to provide such extraordinary tools to help me research, create, organize and present my work. It not only helps me work more efficiently and better build on what I have already done, but it also helps me to be much more creative and put my ideas into action in very satisfying and colorful ways. The students are attentive, engaged, and eager to participate, and in the process, practicing valuable skills in memorable ways.”

A middle school teacher explained that when she asks if a student would like to come to the board to answer a question, hands are immediately raised in the air. Students are eager to interact with the board and have the day’s lesson brought to life.

Through your contributions, ISTP can provide all faculty and students with access to education-enhancing technology. We hope that you will raise your bidding number this evening in support of our hardworking teachers and students who are eager to learn in this exciting way, and help us to complete this essential project.