Quaker Valley School District is pleased to announce that Quaker Valley Middle School has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for the 2023–2026 program term. Quaker Valley Middle School was selected for this distinction based on its commitment to continuous innovation in education and using Apple products to create exemplary learning practices through technology integration in the classroom.
Dr. Anthony Mooney, Quaker Valley Middle School Principal, expressed his excitement, saying, "Being named an Apple Distinguished School is a tremendous honor and a testament to the hard work of our educators, staff, and students. We are dedicated to leveraging technology to enhance teaching and learning, and this recognition validates our commitment to preparing our students for success in a rapidly changing world."
Apple Distinguished Schools are recognized as some of the most innovative in the world. They’re centers of leadership and educational excellence, with a clear vision for how technology-rich environments support learning goals.
“We are thrilled to be recognized by Apple as a Distinguished School! At QVMS, we are very fortunate to be able to provide students and staff with multiple technological resources that have become an integral part of how we teach, learn, create and innovate,” said QVMS Assistant Principal Katy Chapman. “Our technology-rich environment allows us to enhance the learning experience, meet individual student needs, and empower learners to reach their full potential.”
In Apple Distinguished Schools, forward-thinking leaders and their communities work to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning, and they have documented results of academic accomplishments.
Quaker Valley Middle School Instructional Technology Specialist Kieran Vora explained the application process: “I was tasked with filming and editing three application videos that captured innovative ways in which technology has transformed teaching and learning at QVMS. Receiving the Apple Distinguished School award was a moment of immense pride and validation of our commitment to student learning,” he continued. “It's time that our teachers and students were recognized for their hard work in making QVMS a center of leadership and educational excellence.”
Schools all over the world are using iPad and Mac to transform learning. As teachers incorporate technology into their lessons, they empower students to lead, learn, and thrive, to discover new opportunities, and to make their world a better place.
“Here at QVMS, technology is a fundamental part of almost everything that we do. It is not just some shiny toy that sits unused,” explained Tom Forrest, Library Media Specialist. “Rather, iPads, robotics kits, and all the technology tools that we make available to students add to the instruction and curriculum that we have been developing and improving for years. That leads to new opportunities for students to work with one another and connect to what they’re learning.”
As an Apple Distinguished School, Quaker Valley School District will have the opportunity to collaborate with other exceptional schools and districts around the world. This partnership will foster the sharing of best practices and innovative ideas to further enhance the educational experience for students.
“I am so proud of our middle school students and staff for being recognized as an Apple Distinguished School,” said Mrs. Karyn Dobda, Director of Innovation and Strategic Initiatives. “This recognition is a true testament to our ongoing commitment to providing students with a high-quality educational experience where students can gain knowledge and develop skills to be successful in our world.”
For more information about Quaker Valley School District and the Apple Distinguished Schools program, please visit www.qvsd.org/appledistinguished.