Gathering Data

I have gathered some statistical data from the world history teacher, as well as the supervisor of the social studies department.  In the collaborative classes, approximately 43% of the students have grades lower than a C.  Additionally, 24% of the class had below a C on notebook organization grades, and the teacher commented these were graded leniently by a student teacher.  83% of the SPED students had grades lower than a C, and 33% scored lower than a C on notebook grades.  Again, the teacher commented that often, resource teachers organize the notebooks with the students so they can achieve a passing grade.  At this point there are only 4 computer labs for the entire school (est. 800 - 1000 students).  However, the SPED department just received 10 iPads for student use.  Additionally, the teacher estimated that 50 -75 % of students probably have cell phones with free texting.  These give me some possibilities for reducing the paper trail in the notebooks - thus making it easier for students to study.  While the supervisor reported that students were not supposed to use cell phones, exceptions could be made for class purposes.  This also sounds promising.