Nodine distributes $200,000 to schools

MOBILE COUNTY (WALA) - Mobile County Commissioner Stephen Nodine today distributed more than $200,000 in funds to District 2 schools, mainly for computer technology aimed at giving students a competitive edge.

“I want to be a part of educating our young folks for a workforce that demands well-developed skills in computer technology,” Nodine said.

“It also will give us a better way to build partnerships with Airbus, EADS and ThyssenKrupp by training some of our students for a career in these industries.

Set against a backdrop of white boards, Nodine presented the checks to the principals of five local schools for the purchase of white boards, laptops, printers, desktop computers and other computer related materials.

The presentation was made at Semmes Elementary School, 10100 Blackwell Nursery Rd.

The schools receiving funds are:

• Allentown Elementary: $30,000 for laptops
• Semmes Elementary: $35,000 for Smartboards
• Wilmer Elementary: $46,000 for Smartboards
• Semmes Middle: $35,000 for desktop computers and books
• Mary G. Montgomery: $65,000 for AP test fees, laptops, printers, a web-based subscription, AP preparatory books and summer tutoring.

David K. Akridge, executive manager of information technology for the Mobile County Public School system, said the money is “instrumental” in finishing up the schools’ 21st century initiative.

“Engage is the big word here,” he said. “This money will provide the means to engage students in learning through technology.”

White boards, he said, are changing education for a generation of kids who are hands-on learners. The white boards are 77-inch computer screens that allow students to write by a touch of the hand, and to manipulate icons and objects on-screen by touch.

Students will dissect frogs on the big screen. They will engage in games and activities on the big screen related to their school subjects.

The county money comes from a fund that is specifically earmarked for education.