This past summer the Darlington Community School District received $30,000 in grant funding for specific technology resources from the Wisconsin Technology Initiative (WTI).  The grant was awarded to school districts that seek to enhance student academic achievement, 21st -century skills, attendance, and engagement through the effective use of interactive classroom tools.

This grant allowed the district to purchase five SmartBoards (interactive whiteboards mounted to the wall) for students in our high school classrooms and in the district board room.  The funding also allowed teachers of  Kindergarten, English Language Learners, Early Childhood, Special Education, and Library Media & Technology the opportunity to purchase eight SmartTables (interactive whiteboards built into tables) for their learning spaces.

The WTI grant provided the necessary tools for teachers to teach in ways that are hands-on, engaging, and that teach students to work together while meeting the learning needs for their diverse student population. The Darlington teachers are committed to using interactive technology because they have seen high levels of engagement in classrooms that are currently utilizing devices that encourage students to work together collaboratively.

The installation of a SmartBoard in the district board room allows board and community members the opportunity to present information in more meaningful ways.

Sheila Carrington, kindergarten teacher affirms, “The students and I are super excited to have a SmartTable in our room.  The table is a great learning tool and what a fun way to integrate technology into our curriculum.  I feel very fortunate to have gotten a SmartTable for my students.” 

Anyone wishing to assist with future grant-writing opportunities, please contact Superintendent Denise Wellnitz at 608-776-4021 or by email: wellnitzd@darlington.k12.wi.us