RSS integrates technology skills within the curriculum to promote academic skills, including problem solving, creativity, research, and critical thinking. In keeping with the school’s emphasis on ethics, responsible use of computers and information systems is a key component of the technology curriculum.
RSS boasts state-of-the-art equipment supported by a large library of educational software. The school is also 100% wireless, making access to technology viable anywhere on campus. Mobile computer carts provide classrooms with over 320 laptops.
In addition, iPads are introduced at the Elementary Division level and are incorporated into the curriculum through the Middle School. In 2015, RSS introduced the 1-to-1 iPad program for seventh and eighth graders, which provides each student in these grades with a personal iPad. Students in the program are encouraged to use their iPad as an educational device in and out of the classroom, allowing them to find continuity in their work without needing to share devices. This teaches students both accountability and responsibility, as well as fosters familiarity with the skills necessary to take part in today’s ever-changing technological landscape.
Beginning in Grade 2, students have access to Google Drive, which helps them store, access and share their work with teachers, advisors, and, in Middle School, their peers. Through Drive students learn to collaborate in a digital environment.
In addition to computers and iPads, every classroom beginning in Kindergarten is equipped with a SMARTBoard. These interactive whiteboards feature intuitive functionality and an extensive library of lesson activities. Teachers can easily incorporate multimedia content into their curriculum and students can participate via the technology.
The Digital Arts program encourages students to explore the intersection of technology and creativity. A relatively new and quickly expanding field, Digital Arts piques the interest of students in many ways, from learning about composing music to facilitating 3D printing. Students in 6th and 7th Grade take Digital Arts one trimester each year to learn about film, sound and photo editing; students in 8th Grade can take a yearlong Digital Arts course as one of their art electives.