York County VA Schools recognized by Microsoft

Microsoft Corporation has released its annual list of the most innovative schools in the world, recognizing six programs in the United States. The York County School Division was recognized as a 2012-2013 Microsoft Innovative Pathfinder School District, marking the first time the program has awarded district level recognition, for the division-wide “bring-your-own-technology (BYOT) initiative.”
The BYOT initiative supports the division’s Transformative Learning philosophy, meaning that students master content and skills while making a difference locally, nationally, and globally. Students and teachers bring their own technology to school and connect with the wireless network to complement district-purchased devices. Also, with the district’s private Internet cloud, students and teachers access the district network’s resources anytime, anyplace, and from any device with an Internet connection.
Microsoft Innovative Pathfinder Schools are selected through a rigorous application process that includes written and video documentation. Pathfinder Schools are selected for their strong leadership and record of innovation that has transformed education and improved student outcomes in their education systems and local communities.
“I am enthusiastic about our designation as a Pathfinder district because this designation will facilitate our sharing and reflecting on best practices with other innovative districts,” shared Eric Williams, YCSD Superintendent. “This type of interaction leads to professional learning and ultimately to improved student achievement.”
Representatives from the 2012–2013 Pathfinder Schools will attend the Partners in Learning Global Forum, Nov. 28–Dec. 1 in Prague, Czech Republic. While there, these representatives will have the opportunity to participate in professional development workshops and network with innovative instructors from around the world who have been recognized by the program this year.