WESTERN SPRINGS, IL--In an effort to provide its students with the optimal 21st century classroom experience, Western Springs School District 101 in Western Springs, Illinois has chosen Hitachi Software StarBoard interactive whiteboards. Purchased through Troxell Communications, the school utilizes the FXDUO-77 model StarBoard along with the award-winning Hitachi CP-A100 3LCD projector as part of the Hitachi CP-A100+FXDUO bundle.
The StarBoards have been particularly popular at the elementary level where teachers are utilizing them in all major subject areas. “In English we are using it to pick out verbs, in math students use the board to solve math problems, and in social studies it aids us when we are studying a map of a specific area of the world,” stated Scott Elder, 5th grade teacher in the Western Springs School District 101.
Elder is in his first year in utilizing the Hitachi StarBoards but he feels it is a valuable tool that enhances his teaching. “I use it everyday and the students love it. This technology engages student’s and more attentive in class—far more than when using the textbook. It’s such an interactive tool you see the difference in the learning experience by using it,” added Mr. Elder.
District technology coordinator Damon O’Hare explained that the district considered purchasing interactive whiteboards from other companies but Hitachi offered distinct advantages. “When you compare the Hitachi interactive whiteboards to others on the market, the technology is far superior. We needed to invest in a product that we knew would be best for our long term investment both financially and for our students. With the extremely competitive price, we realized we were getting the most for our money with Hitachi,” stated Mr. O’Hare.
Western Springs has planned to purchase additional Hitachi CP-A100+FXDUO bundles over the next two years. “Currently, we have 20 of the bundles and we distributed five to each school in the district. The ultimate goal is to have one in every classroom in our district and we will continue to work toward that,” added Mr. O’Hare.
