Rogers, Ferris Get Ok For Technology Labs

Rogers and Ferris High School students will soon be flying planes and toying with artificial intelligence, thanks to new computers that will be installed this year.

At its Sept. 24 meeting, the district school board approved curriculum for technology labs that will give students hands-on experience in a variety of job fields.

Money for the two $125,000 labs was earmarked in last year’s budget, but final curriculum approval was necessary before the labs could be installed.

Designed to give students exposure to high-tech career options, the labs will provide “some pretty fascinating applications,” said Walt Rulffes, Spokane School District 81 associate superintendent for management services.

Twenty modules will provide background information and simulated experiences in a variety of technologies. One module, for example, will allow students to study the components of an airplane, then simulate flight using the module’s flight controls.

While the labs eventually will be installed in all District 81 high schools, Rogers and Ferris are first for a simple reason: They have the space.

Bus input being taken

Camerra Alcazar is a concerned Arcadia Elementary parent who is gathering information about the need for a crosswalk and crossing guards at the school.

Traffic has increased near Arcadia with remodeling and new bus schedules in the Deer Park School District, Alcazar said.

With the new schedules, Deer Park High School and junior high now release students within 13 minutes of each other. Approximately 1,400 students are dismissed from school at or near the vicinity of Arcadia, she said.

Close to 20 buses pass by the elementary school twice a day in addition to high school students driving home.

To submit ideas or suggestions to Arcadia officials or Alcazar, call 276-2891.

, DataTimes