In a speech to students and staff at a Boston magnet middle and high school noted for high academic standards and rates of students going to college, President Barack Obama praised the innovative methods of the teachers and use of modern classroom technology.
According to the president, TechBoston is "a success story" that could serve as a model for well-run public schools across the country. He also pointed out that a big part of TechBoston's excellence stems from the presence of educational technology, both in classrooms and curricula. Many teachers have found implementing innovative teaching tools, such as computers, LED monitors and HDMI projectors, helps engage students.
"The students here, they get their own laptop when they walk through the door. That costs money, but it opens up a window for learning. You're required to take four years of math, science and technology classes - classes like web development and entrepreneurship and even forensic science," he said.
The school's example demonstrates the possibilities, according to the president. TechBoston - which serves many students from working-class and poor backgrounds - sends 94 percent of its graduating classes to college, and 85 percent of those are the first in their families to do so.
