How the iPad 2 Will Revolutionize Education

I spend my days creating effective fundraising programs so that schools can fund items not affordable without assistance.  Of particular interest to me has been learning devices that create collaborative learning environments and I believe the iPad2 does just that.

First off, apps can and will be made to fill any particular niche that exists.  What that means is if, as an educator, you want an app to test children's math skills in first grade, someone will make it and sell it to you or even give it away.  As soon as folks realize there is a market, the apps will come flooding in.


The device has officially crossed the threshold.  What I mean is that with any other technology that has been introduced, there's always a 'well, if it only did X'.  With the iPad2, that has been removed.  It can do X and there just needs to be an app for that.

In the last week, I've been very encouraged with so many teachers introducing iPads into their classrooms and noting the ability for the device to be used for collaborative learning!

For more information, check out this introductory article:

How the iPad 2 Will Revolutionize Education

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Information on how to raise money for technology in the classroom - elementary school fundraising ideas

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Drunken fight between parents at fundraiser for Highlands Elementary

How's this for kicks.  Three dads nearly come to blows at an elementary school auction.

There is one thing I know... schools are not in the business of putting on events - especially events with alcohol involved.  So, when putting on adult events with booze, just know that anything can happen. 

If this were a night club, the problem would have been diffused within seconds, but at a school auction, most likely nobody knows how to step up and remove the tension from the room.

I have a suggestion or two regarding schools and their events and here they are:

1) Do not serve alcohol at any event that takes place at a school.  Realize that If an event won't do well without alcohol, it's not a good enough event.  Plus, sitting in small chairs drinking is just plain weird. 

In the end, if schools are to be drug and tobacco free areas, set a proper example by keeping that rule intact.

2) If you insist on throwing a fundraiser including liquor, do so at a licensed establishment such as a bar, hotel or banquet hall.  There are several benefits.  Whenever there are groups gathered, these trained folks can help keep the peace and limit consumption. 

They also take on all of the liability and insurance so schools do not end up responsible for any alcohol related problems.  On top of that, instead of providing liquor for free, it can be purchased which could earn additional money for the school.

Regardless, alcohol and schools don't mix.  I proved that in college :)  Regardless, here's the article:


Drunken fight between parents at fundraiser for Highlands Elementary