Berwyn South School District 100
Berwyn, Illinois, United States
Deeper engagement.
Higher achievement. With iPad.
In a suburban city outside Chicago, Illinois, USA, is Berwyn South School District 100, with six primary schools, two junior high schools and over 300 teachers serving more than 3,100 students. Despite the fact that it’s a lower funded school district, the leadership team have always strived to ensure their students have equal access to the best tools. Over a decade ago, they set out to bring in technology with a 1:1 Mac pilot program in a single classroom. Today, the district is 1:1 or higher for every student and educator.
Principal Mary Havis believes the most critical thing is to ensure students are learning, and to do that you have to make sure students are engaged. That requires tools which encourage collaboration and inspire creativity. With iPad, teachers enjoy more flexibility in how they present their lessons, and students have more versatility to express their learning in their own way.
The district offers a dual-language program, providing students the opportunity to keep their first language as they study English. With the ability to switch keyboard and region across the system, iPad makes it easy for students to type, draw or dictate in whatever language they choose. And teachers love being able to toggle back and forth just as easily. Leticia Valadez, Principal at Komensky Elementary says, “I think that the iPad breaks down barriers. It levels the playing field for all students and allows them to reach their fullest potential.”
Principal Havis believes in the power of ongoing professional learning and coaching. She wants to create an environment where everyone is a learner and where everyone continues to grow. Berwyn utilises all of Apple’s Professional Learning offerings — including helpful resources, an online community, in-person coaching and more. The district is also a strong proponent of the Apple Learning Coach program, creating technical expertise at the district- and school-wide level, so help is always nearby for teachers when challenges arise.
Learn more in another video. See how Berwyn engages teachers with Apple Professional Learning.
All of this is making a real impact. Komensky Elementary received an ‘Exemplary’ designation by the state of Illinois in 2022, meaning it performed in the top 10 per cent statewide, with no underperforming student groups. With all eight schools in the district designated as Apple Distinguished Schools, there’s no stopping Berwyn.
“Apple helps us foster an environment in a way that transforms learning in our classrooms. You see students collaborating and really invested in their work — that’s when you know learning is happening.”
