Palos West Elementary School was among approximately 60 schools statewide that took part in the annual TECH 2014 "Students for the Information Age" event on May 8 at the Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield.

Students demonstrated to the public, elected members of the Illinois State Senate, and the House of Representatives how technology is being used in the classroom to improve student achievement.  Computer workstations were set up in the Capitol Building Rotunda so students could show how technology has helped them with their schoolwork.
 
Representing Palos West in the demonstration was Yazeed Haleem, Michael Jeffers, Julia Kotas, and teacher Ms. Toni Hotzfield.  Their presentation, "Terrific Tweets!" demonstrated how Twitter is incorporated into their classroom on a daily basis. 

"Their performance was outstanding," said proud teacher Toni Hotzfield.  "The students were able to capture the tasks associated with Twitter, and share with our legislators and other visitors how we are able to use this social media in our classroom.  They also showcased other forms of technology that we utilize in school such as Book Creator, Genius Hour, and Edmodo." 
 
It was an enjoyable first trip to the state capitol for all three Palos West students and their families.  "We were taken on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Capitol by Senator Cunningham," said Mrs. Haleem.  After their presentation, "the kids were able to see how the voting process worked and hear stories about the sculptures and artwork in the building. They were all very excited."
 
TECH 2014's purpose is to raise awareness of the critical role technology plays in preparing students to succeed in today's world, and to show the need for increased funding for classroom technology.  TECH 2014 is a not-for-profit initiative presented by Illinois Computing Educators (ICE), and is supported by education and business organizations.