A technology pilot program at Round Rock ISD known as Next Generation Digital Classrooms is underway to bring tablet technology into classrooms and libraries.

The three-year pilot program aims to integrate tablet technology into teaching and learning through incubator classrooms, said Lannon Hefflin, RRISD's director of instructional technology. The district will test a range of devices to engage students, including LCD projectors and Apple, Samsung and Dell products. The district also plans to document challenges and successes, he said.

Initially, the program will pilot one incubator classroom at each of the district's 51 campuses. Hefflin said if it is successful, he wants to expand the program to include additional classrooms and libraries in the district. The program will provide eight libraries in RRISD with tablets for students to check out. Libraries included in the initial program launch are located at Teravista, Great Oaks and Laurel Mountain elementary schools; Walsh, Deerpark and Canyon Vista middle schools; and Round Rock and Cedar Ridge high schools.

The district recently traveled to schools in Clear Creek and Grapevine Colleyville ISDs to see how other districts are using technology, said Martha Salazar-Zamora, RRISD's deputy superintendent of instruction and administration.

For more information about the Next Generation Digital Classrooms project, visit https://ngdcrrisd.blogspot.com.