Cherokee Named Top 10 Technology School District

WOODSTOCK, GA -- For the 12th time, the Cherokee County School District has been placed among the country's top 10 large systems effectively using technology in education.

The honor recognizes results from the annual Digital School Districts Survey conducted by the Center for Digital Education and the National School Boards Association.

The survey compares public school districts nationwide and awards Top 10 rankings to those that fully integrate technology into the classroom, and throughout the system’s operations. With this year’s recognition, CCSD has made its 12th appearance in the Top 10 since 2004.

“Effectively using technology is a requirement for success in our world, and we’re focused on ensuring each of our students not only is engaged with technology, but also develops a sense of ownership through usage,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian Hightower said, noting he views technology as a valuable tool for every aspect of operations. “We set a goal to further embrace business technology to improve operations and have implemented successful new systems, with more on the horizon.”

The survey evaluates use of technology in areas including: integration of technology and curriculum and related professional development; infrastructure and networks; leadership and transparency in governance; operational improvements; strategic planning, data management and safety; and communications with students, parents, employees and the community at large.

“Technology is an essential tool for the transformation of education in our country,” said Dr. Kecia Ray, executive director for the Center for Digital Education. “The Digital School Districts Survey helps districts measure progress toward transformation and I'm proud to recognize these districts and the work that is represented in their award. Congratulations to all of the award winners and great thanks to all who participated in the survey.”

Winners will be recognized at the National School Boards Association's Annual Conference in Denver on Saturday.

“The school boards in these districts are recognized for utilizing technology solutions to make their work as a board more transparent and their district operations more efficient,” said Thomas J. Gentzel, executive director & CEO of the National School Boards Association. “Their accomplishments demonstrate that innovative approaches can be embraced by any district, regardless of its size or location.”

The Center for Digital Education is a national research and advisory institute specializing in K-12 and higher education technology trends, policy and funding. The Center provides education and industry leaders with decision support and actionable insights to help effectively incorporate new technologies in the 21st century.

Photo 1: Sixth-grader Joe Oburu and seventh-grader Erik Hoenshel control the livestreaming of two cameras during a basketball game at E.T. Booth Middle School

Photo 2: Macedonia Elementary School second-graders in the class of Rebekah Hunt recently capped off their lesson on the moon and its phases by video-conferencing with a NASA scientist.

Images via Cherokee County School District