RTC Communicator for Winter 2019

WINTER 2019 9 Expanding STEM Education ​Another technology highlight at Alexander Public School is its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) educational programs, which are featured in the STEM room but also take place throughout the building. “The integration of technology used by students and teachers has enabled the continued growth of STEM education cross cur- ricular. The four C’s—communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity—along with work ethic is what define Alexander Public School’s vision and mission. Our STEM curric- ulum is embedded with the basics of reading, writing, and math to prepare our students for the 21st century and the jobs that do not exist yet,” explained Bieber. RTC Provides Solutions To support this technology use and help Alexander Public School stay secure and connected, RTC provides a variety of services and equipment. Dan Schilla, RTC Network Manager, explained, “We rewired the entire school with CAT6 cabling used by multiple devices in the network such as IP cam- eras, the phone system, smart boards, computers, and Wi-Fi equipment. RTC also interfaces with Dakota Carrier Network to provide circuits to the state’s inter- net connection for schools, and we recently upgraded the PBX phone system and installed new easy-to-use cameras with quality pictures.” Alexander Public School currently uses the following RTC services: What does Bieber appreciate most about having RTC as the school’s communications provider? She replied, “​RTC is local and when there’s an issue, they’re quick to respond. Their crew is familiar with our building and personnel, and they’re friendly and have the school’s best interest in mind. Our motto here is that it takes a village to educate and ‘raise’ good citizens, and RTC has become a part of that village! RTC has worked creatively with our limited data closet space as we continue to increase the number of data lines to each classroom as well as install phones for safety purposes.” Innovative Teamwork When technology and creativity combine, it can lead to innovation. Bieber explained, “​The entire staff and student body of Alexander Public School has an innovative mind-set in a variety of ways. Not only are they innovative in the classroom, but in all areas of prob- lem solving. We do it as a team, and I’m proud of the fact we’re a family and take care of one another. We work hard to ensure that our culture of community is felt by all, even visitors.” Clearly, the sky’s the limit at Alexander Public School. Go Comets! Our motto here is that it takes a village to educate and ‘raise’ good citizens, and RTC has become a part of that village!” — LESLIE BIEBER, SUPERINTENDENT, ALEXANDER PUBLIC SCHOOL • Telephone lines • IP phones • Fax line • Fire alarms • IP cameras • High-speed internet connections for voice and cameras