Cornerstone’s computer technology is in the midst of a major upgrade thanks to donors who gave to “Gifts from the Heart,” at our Spring Auction Fundraiser. “Gifts from the Heart,” was a live auction item where donors could “bid” with a gift to Cornerstone’s technology equipment needs. The most visible changes stemming from the $17,800 that was generously donated are being used to completely upgrade our computer lab to current technology, provide four new iPads to be used in the Kindergarten, first, and second grade classrooms, and to replace outdated classroom computers, including those used by our yearbook class.
The above slide show displays pictures of Mr. Eric Kampmeier, Cornerstone IT Director, receiving the new computers and setting up our computer lab with student helpers.
When this “item” was brought to the auction block at our Spring fundraiser, Cornerstone’s current technology was compared to a Conestoga covered wagon, with the possible changes elevating our technology to that like a modern passenger jet. Cornerstone is thrilled that our students will be flying high with this new technology beginning this fall!
Mr. Eric Kampmeier, Cornerstone IT Director and high school computer teacher, spearheaded this campaign with a detailed Technology Plan. One part of this plan outlined retiring obsolete Microsoft Windows XP computers and replacing them with Microsoft Windows 10 on new HP desktop computers. This “Tech Plan-2016” prompted our administrator, Tom Olmstead, to find a way to raise funds for Cornerstone’s technology needs.
“Modernization of our computer technology provides a great pathway for establishing future employability of our students” says Mr. Kampmeier. He also explained that updating our systems will enable Cornerstone to begin using the latest Microsoft Office 365 under Microsoft’s education program. This educational program allows qualifying schools to use Office 365 Online for free. Mr. Kampmeier pointed out that Microsoft invites schools into a mutually beneficial partnership. “They have invited us to experience the benefits of their technology in the classroom,” he says.
Mr. Kampmeier also explained that Microsoft Windows 10 and Microsoft Office 365 offer good security and the great benefit of cloud based document storage services. “Microsoft 365 will allow our students and staff to have the advantage and convenience of having their work available wherever there is a computer along with internet access,” says Mr. Kampmeier, “Students will be much less likely to have the problem of a paper or presentation they are working on getting stranded at school, home, or on a lost flash drive.”
Cornerstone’s educational technology changes are aimed at positioning our students well for academic success, as well as building long-term employment skills. Mr. Kampmeier noted that much prayer went into the process of defining our school’s technology needs and bringing these opportunities to benefit our school to donors at our auction. God continues to provide for the needs of our school, and we invite you to check out the upgrades to our computer lab at the Kindergarten through 12th grade fall orientation on Friday, August 19th at 7:00 p.m.
To read the answers to frequently asked questions about Cornerstone’s technology upgrade, please click here for CCA Technology Upgrade 2016 – Frequently Asked Questions.
