SAN ANTONIO -- At one point in history, a typewriter was useful for homework. Fortunately for students in the North East Independent School District, iPads have replaced the clunky machine.
"The iPads have been amazing to have in the classroom. They are very motivating. They help in all subject areas. Our focus right now is math," said Courtney Cleveland.
Cleveland teaches at Clear Spring Elementary School. Third and fourth graders at her campus and students at Olmos Elementary are participating in a new program that puts the electronic devices in the hands of students to help with math in the classroom and at home.
Through the Technology Lending Program, NEISD was awarded a grant providing 3000 iPads.
"Kids, they usually say math is boring. Once they get an iPad, and it's in a game, it's 90 percent more fun," insisted one 4th grader.
"I was really, really excited, because I have always wanted an iPad and never got one,” said Destiny Carter.
Students believe learning is more fun with the iPad. Parents might wonder if it really enhancing learning or just fun and games.
“They can really see what a fraction is all about and how much this fraction is divided into, and then the brain is so powerful,” said Mercedes Carter.
If the benefits outweigh the costs, the NEISD would like expand the use of iPads to more students throughout the district.
"It's wonderful," grandmother Mercedes Carter told us. "And one thing also, I think U.S. students should be tops in technology, and this is a good start."
