Technology

Technology in the Classroom

At St. Helen Catholic School, technology is viewed as a valuable educational tool that supports learning, creativity, collaboration, and responsible digital citizenship. While technology enhances instruction, it does not replace the essential role of our teachers, hands-on learning experiences, classroom discussions, or traditional instructional practices. Our focus remains on providing an exceptional Catholic education that develops the whole child.

Students in Grades 6–8 participate in our 1:1 iPad program and are assigned an individual iPad for use both at school and at home. Students in PreK–5 have access to classroom iPads that are used as needed to support instruction and enrich learning experiences. All students and parents must sign the school's Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) before students may participate in technology programs or be issued a school device. The AUP can be found in the Parent-Student Handbook.

Purpose of Technology Integration

Technology at St. Helen Catholic School is intentionally integrated to:

• Enhance instruction and deepen student understanding of academic concepts.
• Support differentiated learning and provide opportunities for enrichment and remediation.
• Develop critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.
• Teach responsible digital citizenship and ethical use of technology.
• Provide access to high-quality educational resources, research tools, and multimedia content.
• Prepare students for future academic success in high school, college, and beyond.
• Facilitate communication, organization, and project-based learning.
• Extend learning opportunities beyond the classroom when appropriate.

Our teachers thoughtfully determine when technology is the best tool for learning and when traditional methods such as direct instruction, discussion, reading, writing, laboratory experiences, manipulatives, and hands-on activities are most effective. By maintaining this balanced approach, students learn to use technology purposefully and responsibly while developing the knowledge, skills, and virtues necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.