Apple renews distinctions for Heritage, Moreland and Pilot Knob schools in District 197

Apple has again named Heritage E-STEM Magnet as a Distinguished School and recognized Moreland Arts and Health Sciences Magnet and Pilot Knob STEM Magnet initiatives as Distinguished Programs.

During the 2012-13 school year, Heritage was designated as an Apple Distinguished School for its overall use of technology to enhance and accelerate learning. Moreland and Pilot Knob each had an academic initiative recognized as an Apple Distinguished Program. Their recognitions for technology innovations will now extend through 2015.

The Apple Distinguished School and Program designations are reserved for schools that meet criteria for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence, and demonstrate Apple’s vision of exemplary learning environments.

Heritage E-STEM Magnet School has infused technology into all aspects of its curriculum through a one-to-one initiative in which each student, grades 5-8, receives their own iPad. Funded as part of the school’s U.S. Department of Education Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) grant, Heritage students use the devices to complete assignments, organize their worksheets and notes, give presentations and collaborate with classmates. The iPads take learning beyond the classroom by providing immediate and safe Internet access so students can view instructional videos and perform research. Students have even used their iPads to conduct live interviews with people from across the globe. 

The one-to-one iPad initiative has been supported by Heritage’s staff who have a strong commitment to technology-based learning. Teachers have engaged in numerous hours of professional development activities to develop curriculum, try new applications and more.

Similarly, Moreland and Pilot Knob have integrated technology into their schools to support learning. Apple recognized the Moreland Mobile Learning and Pilot Knob Investigative Technology initiatives as Distinguished Programs because of the innovative way each puts digital tools into the hands of children. The technology allows students to learn in new and dynamic ways and then demonstrate their understanding in a wider variety of formats such as podcasts, videos, presentations and slide shows.