Thanks to the folks at Benton County MIRC Project for sending me the following. It’s fun to hear how a little can go a long ways when you get technology tools in the hands of community connectors and potential e-fluencers!

Through projects called Sauk Rapids-Rice Prepares for 2020 and Foley is an Intelligent Rural Community at Home, at Work and at School, Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education and Foley Community Education have increased opportunities students, the community and business owners have to learn about and access technology and broadband in Benton County.

Through these projects Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education and Foley Community Education have increased open computer lab times for their communities and students, are provid-ing basic computer skills classes and broadband classes through the U of M Extension.

Foley Community Education has also been providing LEGO Robotics classes for school age students. “LEGO Robotics allows students and teachers to collaborate with others around the world through LEGO Robotics forums and resources,” said Stephanie Amberg of Foley Public Schools. “Students are provided an opportunity to collaborate together and challenge their minds.”

Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education also purchased 12 iPads to be used by students, Adult Basic Education, Community Education and during on site experiences at local senior communities. “Teachers use them in their classes. Students really like working on them, especially for math concepts and math fluency activities,” said Sandy Grosland, Director of Sauk Rapids – Rice Community Education. “One teacher uses the iPads with the document camera and projects information onto the smart board to use with a large group. They have also used them for short stories in English.” Grosland also indicated that the school board is using the iPads during school board meetings to access all agenda information rather than using paper copies.