Jackson Public Schools
Instructional Technology Overview
Department Overview
The technology philosophy of the JPS Office of Instructional Technology is based on a holistic approach where personalized, digital learning and technology skills are infused throughout every classroom, at every grade – for every student and every teacher. To this end, we provide support, resources and professional development to make this a reality.
What do we believe?
Technology integration is the use of computer technology, be it hardware, software, or peripherals to enhance teaching and learning.
Technology integration is defined not by the amount or type of technology used, but by how and why it is used. In the integrated classroom, technology is simply a tool like a chalkboard or textbook whose effective and appropriate use makes teaching and learning better.
Technology integration in JPS is...
scholars using technology to develop deeper meaning and understanding.
scholars learning to understand and value their own work by using the tools, materials, and resources that technology can provide.
scholars and teachers using technology to increase the novelty and variety of learning.
teachers using technology to make learning meaningful, engaging, rigorous and relevant.
teachers using technology to enhance and differentiate instruction and provide powerful learning opportunities for all scholars.
teachers using appropriate technology to provide scholars with opportunities to explore and research and to apply learning to real world context.
JPS Learning Management Systems
Google Classroom
Our elementary schools utilize Google Classroom for instructional purposes.
Canvas
Canvas is dedicated to our middle and high schools for instructional purposes.
Google Meet
Google Meet is available to elementary, middle, and high school teachers.
Elementary teachers can access Google Meet within their Google Classroom. Middle and high school teachers have access to Google Meet inside their Canvas courses.
Interactive Panels
There are two interactive panels that are supported by the Instructional Technology Department. The SMART panel and the Promethean Panel. Both products are wonderful and provide a multitude of tools for teachers to use in their instruction to engage students and enhance learning. The possibilities range from projecting videos to customizing learning activities that allow students to collaborate with each other and flex their critical thinking muscles.