A Vision for Technological Advancement in Education
In an increasingly digital world, this school district pursued cutting-edge technology that enhances educational experiences and operational efficiencies. New displays and communication systems enabled them to reach new heights in the classroom.
Problem
A Desire for More Powerful Communication and Connectivity Across the District
Montgomery Independent School District (MISD) needed new ways to empower educators to simply connect with their students in the learning environments and across their district using technology. With a keen focus on improving signage and campus-wide communication, the district set out to overhaul its existing systems, setting a new benchmark for educational excellence.
The top concerns for Montgomery ISD included:
- The need for a PA system that enabled campus-wide communication for everyday use and emergencies.
- A lack of effective digital signage for wayfinding and notifications for students and parents.
- Necessary in-classroom displays for interactive lessons and classroom connectivity.
Solution
Streamlined Display and PA Systems Enhance Class Engagement
Data Projections worked directly with MISD Director of Technology Amanda Davis to test and preview over five different models of interactive displays, digital signage, campus PA systems and physical education tools. By aligning technology solutions with the district's strategic goals, Data Projections empowered MISD to enhance educational outcomes and operational efficiencies.
The main solutions our team used to address MISD’s challenges included:
- Comprehensive installation of next-generation PA systems that made campus announcements and communication easier than ever.
- Testing and implementation of interactive displays for use in the classroom and for campus-wide digital signage.
- Use of active learning systems to make physical education more engaging and holistic.
Result
Displays, PA Systems, Signage and More Boosts Campus Connectivity
Together, Davis and Data Projections tested various models of interactive displays for their ease of use and software performance. The highest priority was to make the new technology’s performance simple and reliable in every classroom for teachers and students alike. This would ensure that technology served as a catalyst for learning rather than a barrier.
After testing several interactive displays, MISD settled on Samsung's 75” and 55” Flip Pro 4K Panels. These interactive flat panels were chosen for their ease of use, allowing teachers to easily screencast to the panels during lessons. The classrooms were also outfitted with wearable microphones from Front Row (by Boxlight) to improve vocal quality for educators, empowering more engaging lessons and ensuring their voice is carried to all students, whether they are in the last or front row.
The Front Row Conductor IP-based bell & PA solution was another new addition to the campuses, allowing administrators to quickly and discreetly disseminate information during emergencies, other campus-wide events, or just regular announcements. The Front Row Conductor integrated with the rest of the technology in the classroom, allowing for silent alarm systems and other safety features to be included in the functionality.
In order to incorporate visual signage, notifications, and alerts throughout the campuses and in the classrooms, DPI worked with the Cleverlive digital signage solution (by Clevertouch by Boxlight) to integrate signage players or displays in every classroom and key area of the campus. In conjuntion with the Front Row Conductor and Clevertouch's Cleverlive, DPI implemented Boxlight's ATTENTION!, a solution that controls and manages visual alerts and messages to all signage players/displays in the school with the necessary information needed - whether in the midst of an emergency or basic information for the school day.
Beyond the average classroom, MISD recognized the importance of varied learning environments, so they worked with Data Projections to expand its educational offerings by introducing interactive play spaces. Lu’s Interactive Playground and Active Floor’s mobile systems were introduced to create immersive, cross-curricular experiences that engage students in new ways.
In total, the new campus upgrades helped accomplish MISD’s goal to increase connectivity across the district. Campuses are now better equipped to communicate easily and effectively across hundreds of classrooms, empowering teachers to help their students build stronger skills and prepare them for the future.
Interactive Technology Creates Educational Opportunities
Samsung Displays:
Samsung displays make big ideas easier for students to grasp with seamless screencasting and interactive features on the classroom interactive displays.
FrontRow Communication Systems:
Make your voice heard in the classroom with wearable microphones, integrated audio, Bell & PA systems and security alert systems.
Cleverlive by Clevertouch - Digital Signage Solution:
Cleverlive provides a customizeable digital signage solution that works with other systems to push out notifications, alerts, and information for an average day or during an emergency.
Lü Active Learning Systems:
Integrate education and movement with vibrant, exciting spaces tailored for active learning and enhanced student engagement.
Active Floor Interactive Spaces:
Enhance educational, social, and motor development through engaging games and activities students can interact with using their feet.
