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CLINTON - i-Pods, interactive white boards and many different computer programs are helping teachers and students at Clinton School in a variety of subjects.

"Kids learn a whole lot differently than they used to. These kids grew up with technology, they're technology natives, not as we're often referred to as technology immigrants," says Mark Latrielle, Clinton School Superintendent.

A grant the Clinton School received ten years ago helped it kick off one of the most impressive teaching and learning atmospheres in Montana.

This grant allowed the school to buy software and then train the teachers in using the new technology in their classrooms.

Since then, the school received additional funding through levies and grants, allowing them to bring in more up to date technology.

The third grade class is using iPod Touches to help them in reading proficiency.

"The student reads a passage and they record it into the iPod. They play it back. They listen to it. See the mistakes they made and they read the passage again and re-record it and see if they made their correction properly," says Court Perry, Clinton School Technology Coordinator.

One of the main teaching tools at the school are interactive white boards, which are sometimes referred to as Smart Boards.

"Workbook or textbooks, they can project that stuff right on the screen, read along with the kids," Perry said.
"It keeps their interest and it improves ways that teachers can deliver the material," added Latrielle.

Younger children have access to animated software to help them learn math and many other skills.

"It might introduce new ideas or ideas in a different way than a teacher is teaching them," said Perry.

Latrielle says his school is always looking for ways to bring in more technology and upgrade what they already have.