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PowerUser Program Overview

The PowerUser program was originally designed not only to train teachers to use the software needed for SMART board use but also to allow teachers the opportunity to see how the software can be used with their students in the classroom setting.  In addition to using the software, teachers show they can integrate it into their curriculum for student use. SMART board installation is now completed through the Long Range Facilities Plan. 


Under the Long Range Facilities Plan, a SMART interactive whiteboard will be installed by the District in each classroom to ensure that all students have access to this technology. This unit when combined with the attached computer serves as a media center for viewing videos, DVDs, PowerMediaPlus streaming videos, and cable television. In addition, each board will be accompanied by a full classroom sound system. With an implementation of this size, training and staff development becomes imperative. As a teacher in the Duluth Public Schools, you will have several options available to you over the next five years.


In the fall of each school's "new" opening, the Technology Department will schedule a brief training session in each building to show staff how to use media center / sound system equipment. Personnel will then be available as you try the system out yourself.


If you are PowerUser certified, you will be able to:

  • Immediately access SMART Notebook software and have full functionality of your SMART board.
  • Attend (if you have not already done so) three days of training and staff development in SMART board operations and curriculum integration. You will receive an invitation when you become eligible.
  • Apply to the Technology Department for hardware peripheral grant items such as document cameras, wireless slates (Airliners), and classroom responders. Grant amounts will be dependent upon budget.

If you are not PowerUser certified, you will be able to:

  • Attend a one-day SMART Board User Bootcamp. You will receive an invitation in the fall of your school's "new" opening. After you have completed this session, you will have access to all SMART board features; and your board will be fully functional.
  • Attend, as always, PowerUser courses offered through Teacher Development (News and View) to obtain your PowerUser certification.

If you have not already done so, you are strongly encouraged to become PowerUser certified, as it provides many benefits that non-PowersUsers will not have:

  • A jump start on technology skills that will apply to SMART board use.
  • Access  to SMART Notebook software.
  • Eligibility to apply to the Technology Department for hardware peripheral grant items such as document cameras, wireless slates (Airliners), and classroom responders.
  • Advanced training for using the SMART board.
  • Staff development opportunities for integrating technology into the classroom.