This week and last, third and fourth graders in year-round school at Claiborne Upper Elementary School were issued visas and traveled around the world – all from the comfort of a high-tech classroom. It’s part of the East Baton Rouge Parish School System Professional Development/Instructional Technology Department’s EdVenture for students.  It is the second time the department has held the program in the last year.

In the Great Race, students tour various travel destinations like Egypt by computer and through Whiteboard presentations and other high-tech means.  During their research and after, they apply what they’ve learned to hands-on projects involving computers, PowerPoint displays and cameras.  The event focuses on learning math skills through the integration of technology. 

Last week, it was the third graders turn to utilize equipment at the district’s new, cutting-edge Professional Development Center.  Eight-year-old De’Ajah Mack, a Claiborne third grader (pictured), used an avatar of herself (upper right of the shown computer screen) to walk through computer exercises.  This week, fourth graders will be participating in the Great Race and EdVenture.  For more information, call Robyn Vaughan at (225) 226-4812.