Eight schools selected for 2003-2005 Connections program

Students from the U.S., Canada and Mexico will participate in technology-based,
collaborative learning program to boost cross-cultural understanding

Calgary, AB --- August 19, 2003 --- The SMARTer Kids™ Foundation of Canada announces the selection of eight schools from across the U.S., Canada and Mexico to participate in the 2003-2005 Connections program. Entering its fifth year, this fully funded program includes a school from Mexico for the first time. Each participating school will receive leading-edge technology from program sponsors, and teachers will be trained on how to integrate this technology into their curriculum. Starting in August 2003, grade five students from all eight schools will collaborate on projects and communicate with one another over distances until the classes complete grade six in 2005. They will explore their similarities and differences with the goal of developing a common understanding through friendship and respect. The program will culminate with student representatives and their teachers meeting for a week of fun and learning in Calgary, Alberta, Canada in May 2005. To date, more than 1,500 children across North America have already benefited from Connections-sponsored cross-cultural learning opportunities.

In July 2003, one grade five teacher from each participating school will meet in Calgary to plan collaborative projects and receive technology training. These teachers will introduce the Connections program to the grade five students in their respective classes. The following year, a grade six teacher from each school will train in Calgary and return to lead his or her grade six students through the 2004–2005 school year. Throughout this program, participating teachers will collaborate to create opportunities for ongoing student interaction.

“The Connections program brings together students and teachers from across the U.S., Canada and Mexico to promote cross-cultural understanding in an increasingly globalized world,” says Nancy Knowlton, executive director of the SMARTer Kids Foundation. “The Foundation hopes that participants will not only develop lifelong friendships but also greater self-confidence and appreciation for cultural diversity.”

2003-2005 Participating Schools

U.S.

• Chaney Elementary, Richmond Heights, Missouri
• Cecil B. DeMille Elementary, Midway City, California
• Horace Mann Math Science Technology Academy, Chicago, Illinois
• Walnut Hill Elementary, Dallas, Texas
  

Canada

• Lake Bonavista Elementary School, Calgary, Alberta
• Harmony Elementary, Chateauguay, Quebec
• St. Patrick's Community School, Red Deer, Alberta
  

Mexico

• San Roberto Institute, Monterrey, Mexico
  

Connections Creed
The Connections Creed captures the values and ideals of this program:

In my life, I can stand alone without being lonely. I can reach out and feel connected to family, friends and teachers. I will surround myself with people who inspire me to be the best person I can be. I am connected to others in many ways, but what matters the most is what is within me and who I choose to be.

Product Donations
All schools participating in the Connections program receive a minimum of one SMART Board™ 580 interactive whiteboard, a Floor Stand 570, SMART Ideas® concept-mapping software and an NEC® VT460 projector. These products are integrated with curriculum to support collaborative learning projects. The SMARTer Kids Foundation recognizes SMART Technologies Inc. and NEC Solutions America, Visual Systems Division for these product donations and their ongoing support.

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