John Jay Middle School Recognized As An 'Apple Distinguished School'

CROSS RIVER, NY — John Jay Middle School has been named among an elite group of learning institutions around the world.

From the Katonah-Lewisboro School District.

Katonah-Lewisboro School District is thrilled to announce that John Jay Middle School has been designated an Apple Distinguished School — joining 889 schools in 37 countries who have also received the honor.

The award recognizes John Jay Middle School’s commitment to inspiring, imagining and impacting teaching and learning through continuous innovation. District instructional coach Mike Sammartano describes the school’s thoughtful and intentional incorporation of technology into lessons as a rich ecosystem which includes podcasting, editing video and creating animations and other art.

"Teachers use devices as a vehicle for students to create rather than consume," said Sammartano. "It allows students to gravitate towards what they are excited about."

"I am most proud of our teachers being celebrated for their 'fail forward' approach to learning how they can leverage technology in their classrooms," said Principal Jeff Swiatowicz. "In the last several years, I have witnessed teachers stepping out of their comfort zones and using technology to 'inspire, imagine and impact' for the benefit of the students in their classrooms. This approach is at the very core of what Apple is celebrating us for."

The Apple Distinguished School recognition was shared with John Jay Middle School’s educators at their September 9 staff meeting. "This award is a testament to your spirit of innovation, trying new things and sharing best practices with each other," said Paul Vassak, a member of Apple’s Global Education Team, who presented the award. "John Jay Middle School embodies the essence of Apple Distinguished Schools, which we believe are the most innovative schools in the world."

The award opens doors for John Jay Middle School teachers to access additional professional development, including engagement with experts and educator-to-educator collaboration with peers at other Apple Distinguished Schools.

"We strive as a district to be forward-thinking and to prepare our students to be successful in the real world," said Katonah-Lewisboro Schools Superintendent Dr. Ray Blanch. "Part of that process is learning to use technology as a collaboration tool. I am proud of our educators for embracing technology in a way that encourages students to engage with each other and their environment."

Watch video about John Jay Middle School's use of technology here.

This press release was produced by the Katonah-Lewisboro School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.