WONDERFUL NEWS--FERN AVE WINS $20, 000

Fern Ave PS wins $20,000 technology grant from Best Buy Canada

Best Buy Canada has announced that Fern Public School is one of three Toronto schools awarded a grand total of $100,000 from the electronic and computer retailer’s “Best in Class Fund” (BICF).

The fund is aimed at inspiring teachers and students to develop compelling educational projects that advance learning through the integration of technology in the classroom. “We’re thrilled with this announcement,” said Principal Craig Tsuji. “I’m very proud of our staff and students who worked hard on an application that would get the judges attention.”

The Fern submission from the Grade 7 and 8 Science and Geography class requested tablet PCs and software to help students research and explore land use online. Students also requested camcorders to record science experiments and share ideas on a wiki. Ms. Stephanie Gunsinger, Mr. Brian Shreve and Ms. Ellen Douglas were instrumental in making this happen.

All Toronto Grade 7 and 8 classes were invited to submit a lesson proposal that would incorporate technology use. The top three submissions were chosen by the BICF judges to receive the grants in the form of a Best Buy gift card. Other TDSB winners include Don Mills MS ($50,000) and Agnes MacPhail PS ($30,000).