Technology

Curriculum

Starting in Kindergarten, students have access to at least one Technology class each week. The curriculum explores the use of student iPads, apps for discovery, exploration and experimentation with 2D and 3D design, programming basics, and more. A Tech or STEAM program is often available during Winter Clubs.

Educational Technology Philosophy

At BHCS, we believe digital technology is a tool to augment, not a replacement for, our curriculum and teaching methods. Our teachers use technology purposefully in their classrooms to enhance lessons and provide students with a wide variety of options to participate in the learning process and demonstrate understanding. Our school technology committee, led by our technology integrator, oversees the entire school technology program and meets regularly to assess, develop, and implement best practices for technology use in our school.

Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI)

Since the start of the program in 2002, BHCS has participated in the State’s “Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI)” which was created to provide equitable access to high-tech learning tools to all of Maine’s middle school students. The current iteration of the program that BHCS participates in involves 1:1 iPads and/or Chromebooks for students in Grades 1-8. Students in Grades PK-4 may use their iPads only at school, while those in Grades 5-8 have the ability to take their iPads home (with guardian approval) so that they and their teachers may leverage these tools for homework and project assignments. Parents/Guardians will be informed about the insurance and any technology policy changes annually through a public forum or the BHCS website. For more information, refer to the school board’s MLTI policy and procedures.

TEchnology Lab

Blue Hill Consolidated School has a state-of-the-art STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) program focused on project-based learning. The Technology program is tailored to meet the needs of every student in our school. Our focus is on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, inquiry-based, and test-hypothesis skills. The Tech Lab is a hands-on learning space with technical and non-technical tools—including a 3D printer, 3D scanner, laser cutter, vinyl cutter, and mini CNC milling machine—where students can learn through exploration and trial-and-error.