By Michelle Williams
Dr. William “Shane” Robbins has been hired as the new superintendent of Mt. Vernon Community Schools Corporation. He leaves his former post of superintendent for the Northwestern Consolidated School District of Shelby County, where he served for 3 years.
His first initiative with MVCSC is to begin working on the implementation of one-to-one technology in classrooms, a project he successfully implemented in his previous position. “Young people learn much differently today than they did 20 years ago. Technology improves flexibility and engagement. We don’t want them to leave an engaging environment at home and come to an unengaging environment at school.” said Robbins.
The flexibility offered by one-to-one technology also allows the student better access to their teachers and materials. Learning time is not restricted to normal school hours, and can be enabled during times when school might otherwise be cancelled due to unforeseen conditions like inclement weather.
The technology project is a challenging endeavor that will require buy-in from the school, students, and community. Many of the school system’s older facilities may require retrofitting. Analyzing requirements and building out a timeline are the first steps. Robbins expects that the students will adapt easily to the addition of one-to-one technology.
“Our goal is mastery.” said Robbins. He believes that by providing students with more avenues for mastery, better outcomes are possible for the students — as well as the teachers and schools. The belief is supported by his track record of significant improvements to the district letter grades from the Indiana Department of Education during his tenure at two other school corporations.
Robbins’ own use of technology has enhanced his communication in the community. He regularly posts quarterly webcasts and an annual state of the corporation address at www.DrShaneRobbins.com. He plans to continue this level of visibility as he moves into his position with MVCSC, stating, “I believe authentic relationships are essential and that can only be accomplished by building trust. Trust is not built behind closed doors.”
