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Geneseo High begins electronics experiment with students

One text at a time, the Green Zone at Geneseo High’s cafeteria represents reality. “Everybody, for the most part, literally has the entire world rig...

One text at a time, the Green Zone at Geneseo High's cafeteria represents reality.

"Everybody, for the most part, literally has the entire world right in their pockets or in their bags anyway," said English teacher Emily Ericson.

During Friday's lunch, there's also a full buffet of information.  Teens are texting and enjoying earbuds.

"You can try to pretend they don't exist in the world, but they exist," said Geneseo High Principal Mike Haugse.  "They're a part of kids' lives."

Now, hallways will become a communications pathway.  Geneseo High is expanding its Green Zone.

For the rest of the school year, students can use electronic devices during five-minute passing periods.

They'll also be able to carry smaller totes with Chromebooks and materials.

Students will even self-police the experiment to help it to succeed.

"Why wouldn't we start to change the school culture and promote positive use of technology?" Ericson asked.

Inside her classroom, electronic devices are a part of daily studies.  The latest research tools advance learning for students.

"It's technology literally at their fingertips, right here in the classroom, ready for them to use," she said.

Still, it won't become a telethon in the hallways.  Students still can't make or answer calls, take pictures or make videos.

It's a way to keep up with the times.  These devices are a part of life.  They're also a part of life at school.

"If a kid has a mini-computer in their pocket, why shouldn't they have it in their hand and use it," Haugse concluded.

In Geneseo, it's another chance for technology to enhance education and life.

 

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