At Sacred Heart, all academic disciplines, at all grade levels, integrate technology into the curriculum. The computer is a tool for writing, research, analysis, presentation, dissemination, and discussion of classroom projects. Our campus network provides wireless access to our file, database, print, e-mail and Web servers.
Technology is an integral part of the Lower School curriculum. From preschool on, integration occurs through the use of a dual platform (PC and MAC) in many classrooms, varied multimedia programs, Internet links, school-wide network, digital animation, and software programs. Lower School girls have regularly scheduled classes held in a Macintosh computer lab.
In the Middle School, the fifth and sixth graders have regularly scheduled classes held in a designated Mac computer lab. Teachers also have access to a mobile net book lab to facilitate computer integration in their classrooms. Students learn to use different operating systems, Microsoft Office applications, desktop publishing, web design, Internet applications and Logo programming. In seventh grade girls join the laptop program. They continue to have regularly scheduled computer/arts classes and use laptops in all academic disciplines for research, class presentations, and to learn the basic concepts in computer science.
Laptop Program Sacred Heart implemented a laptop program for all students in grades 7-12 in the fall of 1998. The School is committed to strengthening the program by providing a laptop to every faculty member in all three divisions. Teachers manage online components of their classes through individual home pages and a classroom management system called Moodle. With laptops and wireless networking, every classroom has been turned into a computer lab. Students also use their laptops at home, in the library or wherever they choose. The bridge between school and home has been further strengthened since all students can collaborate online using the same programs to solve problems and transform information into knowledge.
Upper School students continue the use of their laptops for test taking, essay writing, multimedia presentations, laboratory experimentation and research purposes. Electives provide girls opportunities to explore Web design, programming, desktop publishing, digital video editing and imaging.
Students Entering Grades 7, 8 and New Upper School Students
Students returning as a seventh grader or any new student entering grades 7-12 join the laptop program. Girls new to the Upper School enroll in a laptop seminar course that provides training in basic computer skills. Students purchase laptop computers at our reduced school rate via the Web, phone or fax, and receive home delivery over the summer. Sacred Heart only allows specific laptop models in the program which are supported by our service team.
In the academic year 2010-2011, parents had two models to choose from. Option one was the Dell 2120, which is the mandatory choice in Middle School. Upper School students purchased the Dell Latitude 6420, which is a larger model with integrated optical drive and full-sized keyboard and screen. Program laptops ship pre-configured to our specifications, including the ability to access our campus wireless network. In 2012-13, Upper School students will be able to choose between a MacBook Pro and a Dell Latitude PC. Both will be fully support by our technical service team.
2012-2013 Laptop Specs
Technology Acceptable Use Policy The David J. Bloom Broadcast Suite
The David J. Bloom Broadcast Suite is a state-of-the-art video production space. It includes a studio, control room, editing room, and recording room. The studio provides students with hands-on experience in how to use video production equipment including video cameras, audio tools, an a/v mixer and a teleprompter. Students use Final Cut Pro software to edit their work. They compose their own music for their videos using GarageBand.