APPLE DISTINGUISHED SCHOOL

In early October, North Broward Preparatory was recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for 2016–2018 for its iLearning program, which emphasizes delivering personalized learning through the use of Apple technology.  

The Apple Distinguished designation is reserved for programs that meet criteria for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence, and demonstrate Apple’s vision of exemplary learning environments.

Our iLearning program began in 2011 with the integration of iPads in our preschool classrooms. By the 2012-2013 school year, we implemented a 1:1 iPad program in grades 4-5 and maintained access to 1:1 iPads for grades Pre-K to grade 3. Teacher iPads, MacBooks, Apple TVs and widescreen projectors in all classrooms and our 24 station iMac Lab provided the functionality to enhance our differentiated, personalized learning program.

Faculty collaborate with students and one another to make thinking visible and to document the processes of learning and reflection. In their one‑to‑one iPad program, students learn to capture and demonstrate their understanding through multiple creative pathways. Various modes of reflective practice, including digital reflection journals, electronic portfolios, and Visible Thinking Routines help teachers assess student thinking and growth.

With a significant international population residing on campus from more than 24 different countries, the school community is a microcosm of the world. Faculty and staff use technology purposefully to help everyone innovate, collaborate, and communicate in multiple ways across their campus and across the globe. The school empowers its students to take bold risks intellectually and creatively and to contribute to the world.

Examples of the daily application of our iLearning model include digital storytelling, math and language iAssessments through the Explain Everything app, and collaborative creation. Each of these tools further emphasizes our focus on problem-solving, critical thinking and use of technology in teaching.