History

Technology History

By Patty Kirk, former Cougar Ridge Principal

When Cougar Ridge opened in 1992, it was the belief among staff that technology would grow in such importance that it would soon be considered one of the basics just like reading and math. With that in mind, we hired a certificated technology specialist, something no other elementary school in Issaquah had at the time. Betsy Muller, M.Ed. Ed Technology, began teaching technology classes to students in 1993. A set of curriculum goals was established. The skill level of our students began to increase to the point that Issaquah Middle School had to change their

introductory technology class as Cougar Ridge students had already mastered the class goals. At the same time, several of our teachers received masters degrees in technology. All staff began taking computer classes. Along with increasing their own skills, teachers learned about software programs and websites that support the district curriculum.

When we opened the school, there were 10-12 computers in the lab, a workstation in each of the 16 classrooms, and 6 computers in the library. Over the years with support from the Technology Levy, tremendous from parents through

PTSA fundraising events, and through donations, we have increased the number of workstations tenfold.

Every one of our lives is impacted daily by tech- nology. We are doing a

fine job at cougar Ridge providing our students the basic knowledge they will need to be computer savvy. Just think Mom and Dad, if you had formal instruction each week and time to practice the skills, you might be able to keep up with our kids! The staff appreciates all your support, especially in the technology area.