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      So what is Tracs?

      The Tracs program:

      • supplements any school's existing curriculum
      • provides hands-on experiences for all students
      • was developed and tested by teachers
      • includes technology, resources, and materials for all levels, from  modeling clay to digital cameras
      • is a complete turnkey system including
        • resources and furniture
        • lab management (including curriculum application and guideline    documentation, specialized delivery software, and more)
        • staff development (including initial training and ongoing support)
        • networking
        • complete installation
      • is available to the entire school's population
      • facilitates all learning styles and higher order thinking skills
      • provides a safe learning environment
      • promotes 21st Century success skills including:
        • problem solving
        • teamwork
        • the allocation of time, money, resources, and personnel
        • researching, planning, constructing, and communicating
      • creates endless learning possibilities

      The five components of the Tracs system are:

      Techno-Plaza
      A true 21st century "multi-media center" including 18 networked  computers, software, hundreds of manipulatives and individual pieces of equipment, a  child-sized yet full working kitchen, a wood working and invention area, riser seating for  student presentations, and a mini zoo. The Techno-Plaza comes with a color coded inventory  system, as well as a child-friendly equipment "how to" book collection called  the FlipPacs.

      TracPacs
      A curriculum application series developed from the recommendations of the SCANS Report  wherein students work in teams using the technologies of the Techno-Plaza to complete  theme-based research and presentation projects. Includes student workbooks and the TracPac  Instruction Book for teachers featuring a special section called ThemePacs which provides  theme-based project topic ideas. Available in two versions—the Intermediate Version  (grades 3 and up) and the Primary Version (kindergarten through 2nd grade).

      Lab Management
      The Tracs furniture design provides a clever use of space, efficient work surfaces,  organized storage, functional electrical and networking capabilities, and an aesthetically  pleasing learning environment for students. Media Cruiser provides a consistent software  interface and delivery system that boasts easy program access, lesson organization and  instruction, a secure Windows® environment, and much more.

      Staff Development
      The successful use of technology in schools is directly linked to    implementation—successful implementation is directly linked to teacher confidence and  competence. The Tracs system comes complete with both initial and ongoing staff  development and support. Initial staff development includes up to seven days of  facilitator/staff training. Ongoing support enhances the Tracs system through summer  workshops, Internet access, and toll-free technical support.

      Connectivity
      The Tracs system lends itself to the sharing of ideas and partnerships with other  schools and businesses that can contribute to the ongoing success of the system. Tracs  facilitators can share lesson plans and ideas as well as provide support