Prince William Academy Launches New Technological Initiatives for 21st-Century Education

Last week, Prince William Academy (PWA), an international private school located in Lake Ridge, VA, unveiled its much-anticipated, newly renovated computer lab, as well as a high-tech, mobile computing station. Both are part of the school's ongoing initiative to become a model 21st-century learning environment.

The computer lab now boasts fully adjustable desks and chairs, for use by students from preschool through middle school. “Our updated computer lab will soon become a hub for activity serving our school’s focus on technology as it relates to STEAM [science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics],” says Dr. Jason Lody, PWA’s Head of School. “Students will utilize our computer lab to explore curricular themes, and deepen their access to real-time data, research, and materials. “

According to Giovanni Vizcardo, parent volunteer and chair of PWA’s Technology Committee, the computer lab is the product of fruitful collaboration between parents and PWA’s administration. “This project would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated parents who volunteered for research, implementation, and assembly.” Also, PWA’s leadership prioritized building a solid STEAM platform this year, he says, “and the results are already tangible.”

Dr. Lody notes that IT-industry parents like Vizcardo were especially instrumental in getting the lab up and running, donating matching funds from their own employers, and spending many volunteer hours on setup, assembly, wiring, and network configuration. “This computer lab, from its equipment to its design and assembly, represents the hard work of parents who gave of their time and talent to help make this dream a reality.”

The Technology Committee has also orchestrated the purchase of a mobile computing station, which has the capacity to host 48 devices. And thanks in part to a new school initiative to collect and repurpose used computers, the mobile station already has 26 laptops available for use throughout the school. Also this week, PWA’s chef, Veronica Manocchia, facilitated the donation of five desktops from Montclair Country Club.

“It really is wonderful to see such collaboration among parents, staff, and the community at large,” says Dr. Samia Harris, PWA’s Executive Director. “We have such a strong school community, anchored by dedicated, resourceful parents and staff members, and their connections throughout the county.”

Parents who wish to visit PWA’s campus may go to the school’s website, www.pwaed.com, call 703-491-1444, or email office@princewilliamacademy.com to schedule a tour.