Growing with Technology Awards

Holly Springs School District

Public Sector
Honorable Mention

URL: www.hssd.k12.ms.us
Location: Holly Springs, Mississippi
Executive Sponsor: Jones Mays, Technology Coordinator
Cisco Products: None

Overcoming Economic Barriers to Student Achievement

Located in an economically-challenged region in north Mississippi, Holly Springs School District has nevertheless been able to use network technology to improve teaching and learning. In 2001, the district launched TECHS (Technology Education for the Children of Holly Springs), which deployed a converged IP network infrastructure, an IP phone system, laptop computers on carts, and more, giving students and teachers greater access to technology. To date, TECHS has had a positive effect on student achievment, as the district has moved up from being an "underperforming" district to Level 2 status in the 6 years of the program's existence. Since many of the students do not have computer and Internet access at home, the district is launching a "1 student: 1 laptop" program to enable them to continue learning after-hours. These are only a few of the district's numerous deployments and achievements, and is proof positive that school districts can obtain the technology that will make a difference to teachers, parents—and especially students.