FAU Lab Schools Designated as 2017 Google Reference District


By kelsie weekes | 7/12/2017

Florida Atlantic University Lab Schools, which includes FAU High School, A.D. Henderson University School, the Karen Slattery Educational Research Center for Child Development, Pine Jog Environmental Education Center and Palm Pointe Educational Research School at Tradition, has been named a 2017 Google for Education Reference School District. It is the only district in Florida with the distinction, and one of only 109 districts in the world.

Google for Education Reference Districts are districts that demonstrate excellence and leadership through the innovative use of technology, including G Suite for Education (formerly known as Google Apps for Education) and Chromebooks to drive positive learning outcomes.

“I’m proud of the dedication and work of our faculty and staff as they pursue science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics and design in an effort to impact teaching and learning in our district,” said Joel Herbst, Ed.D., assistant dean of PK-12 schools and educational programs at FAU. “Being recognized as the only Google Reference District in Florida is an honor that furthers our mission as a Florida Developmental Research School of providing students a challenging curriculum, balanced with innovative academic support; demonstrating best practices for university teacher education; innovating, developing and disseminating curricula; and conducting and supporting emerging educational research.”

Acceptance into the program is an invite-only application process, in which schools must create a presentation explaining how Google products have transformed their classrooms. As a reference district, FAU Lab Schools will be listed on the Google for Education website and have the opportunity to be showcased in Google for Education’s keynotes, presentations, newsletters and case studies. The distinction also will allow educators and other districts from around the world to visit FAU Lab Schools to see Google products in action for education. 

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