The Orangeburg County Consolidated School District Three in South Carolina has been awarded almost $6.5 million in federal grant funds from the U.S. Department of Education to invest in new technology and magnet programs, WLTX reports.
The school district will launch two new learning programs with the Magnet School of America Grant, which will be distributed over three years.
The district will use the funds to build new labs and distance learning programs. Using modern technology, students will be able to connect to distant locations such as Clemson University, Columbia University and even NASA.
Educators have found new technology can help improve academic achievement for students. Investing in smartboards and laptops connected to an HD TV, LED monitor or HDMI projector can create an interactive learning environment that encourages students' interests and gives them the skills they need for the future.
"A lot of our technology is antiquated, and it’s because of budget cuts," said St. James Gaillard Elementary Principal Michelle Wilson. "I really think we will be preparing our students for the future."
The district will also create a second magnet program for International Baccalaureate, allowing students to reach goals in literature and arts.
