ANNUAL REPORT - Cushing Academy

Grant Geske (left) workswith Nicole Besen ’14(center) and MadysonWallace ’14 (right).iClass TableDonors Are HelpingCushing Develop TeachingMethods for the FutureLAST FALL, CUSHING CHEMISTRY TEACHER GRANT GESKEdesigned an innovative teaching tool that combines a Wii remote, an infraredstylus, a computer, a projector, and a traditional lab table. The new tool is theiClass table and it is possible in part because of gifts to the Academy.The iClass table is highly adaptive, serving the needs of varied learningand teaching styles. The tables can be operated independently or linked,allowing for a variety of learning opportunities. Geske created the tableto put technology to work in the classroom and use it to make learningfun. “My biggest fear is that we’re killing kids’ imaginations and desire tolearn more about what’s around them by boring them. This helps connectkids back to science, why it’s fun and why it’s neat,” he said.It’s working. “It’s impossible to be bored while using these tables,” saidjunior Mallory Fredericks. “And you can’t stray from chemistry because Dr.G has full control over the screens and sees what you do.”Gifts to Cushing provide the fuel for innovative programs like the iClasstable. This year, gifts to the Cushing Academy Fund have helped offsetsome of the cost of developing the table. The Academy has also receivedfinancial support from the Edward E. Ford Foundation, which approveda $50,000 matching grant to support the acquisition of componentmaterials, teacher training, and curriculum and program development.A generous Cushing family stepped up to meet that challenge, helpingus complete the grant and sending a strong message that they believein Cushing’s commitment to developing creative educational tools andprograms.Learn More To see a video and learn more about how the iClass tableworks, visit cushing.org/iclass.20WWW.CUSHING.ORG/GIVE