Bowlby Library gets new learning kits for students
WAYNESBURG – New learning technology kits for children are available for educators to borrow at Eva K. Bowlby Public Library.
The Check Out Tech kits, for students from preschool through fourth grade, contain educational toys, books and an iPad with preloaded content for the students to learn. They have a curriculum guide, lesson plans and activities.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for the educators in the county,” said Kathy McClure, executive director of the library. “I used to be an educator, and people are so strapped for time, and there’s so much planning that goes into it. But you can just pick this up, and there are lesson plans already built in.”
There are five themed kits available for local teachers and educators to use with students, including health, wellness and nutrition; nature; community helpers; pets; and family, friends and feelings.
They were provided to the library through the Fred Rogers Center in November.
“We were wanting more technology in the rural areas,” McClure said. “The kids will be exposed to and reinforcing skills that they’ll need in the later elementary grades.”
Although the kits are available for two-week borrowing, the library will have a kickoff day from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 25, with a petting zoo for children and a chance for educators in the county to see the kits.
McClure said that eventually families may be able to borrow the kits, but “for now,” the focus is on getting the kits to educators and into classrooms.
For more information, call the library at 724-627-9776.