STATEHOUSE (Sept. 28, 2009) - State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Bennett will join State Sen. Randy Head (R-Logansport) and area superintendents at Rochester High School on Wednesday to talk about 'New Tech' successes.

Bennett and Head will also host a media availability from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. before their meeting with superintendents.

Bennett said he will talk about expanding the successful new technology model of learning - offered at Zebra New Tech High in Rochester - to high schools across Indiana. The New Tech model uses technology to combine teaching of Indiana academic standards with problem-based learning connected to real-world issues.

"Rochester's Zebra New Tech has been recognized time and again for its ideal implementation of the New Tech model," Bennett said. "As a state, we've emerged as a national leader in New Tech, and we would like to see even more Indiana schools make the New-Tech transition.  It's an innovative, 21st-century approach to preparing students for a 21st-century economy."

"Each student has their own laptop computer to use during school and can check grades or use e-mail to communicate with group members," Head said. "I believe this educational model helps engage students and promotes working together to solve problems."

Zebra New Tech High is Indiana's first rural school implementing this creative learning strategy. The school currently includes all freshman and sophomore students with integrated course offerings including Global Studies - a combination of English and geography - and DigiCom - a combination of English and digital media.

"New Tech teaching provides students entering the workforce upon graduation to have the vital skills needed to be successful including working with people, using the latest technology and developing strong work ethics," Head said.  

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