Since 2004, Best Buy has awarded nearly $17 million to over 6,000 K-12 schools. Best Buy is proud to support K-12 schools who have integrated interactive technology into the curriculum to engage students and make learning fun. This year, teachers may apply for funding between $1,000 and $5,000.
The Best Buy Teach Award program recognizes creative uses of interactive technology in K-12 classrooms. Winning programs focus on kids using technology to learn standards-based curriculum, rather than on teaching students to use technology or educators using technology that children aren’t able to use hands-on. The purpose of the Best Buy Teach Award program is to reward schools for the successful interactive programs they have launched using available technology. Please do not be discouraged from applying if your school does not have the most current equipment.

Here is what they’re looking for:

• Evidence that integrating technology into the curriculum is engaging to students and makes learning fun.
• Hands-on, interactive components that engage students.
• Creative ways of enhancing the core curriculum with technology.
• Creating or maximizing classroom activities.
• Creating opportunities for cross-disciplinary teaching.
• A clear vision of how this program can grow or evolve.
• Evidence of school, parent and/or community commitment to the program.
• Detailed budget.

All awards are issued in the form of Best Buy Gift Cards to enable school to purchase the additional technology needed to expand or enhance their current programs. You must submit your application online by October 15, awards will be announced in March 2009. For more information, or to apply, go to http://www.bestbuy.com/teach.

I have seen some incredible projects integrating technology in classrooms throughout Muskegon County. Why not get rewarded for your hard work? I know this is a busy time of the year but DON’T PROCRASTINATE!!! Get your application in and get some tools to support your projects.