Several representatives of the Greeneville City School System have been in San Antonio, Texas, this week receiving a national award for innovation in technology.

The fifth annual Sylvia Charp Award of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) recognizes school systems that exhibit effectiveness and innovation in applying technology district-wide.

A press release from ISTE said, "GCS has developed a model technology program for its 2,800 students since the integration of a comprehensive technology back in the 1995-96 school year. Since then, GCS has maintained a commitment to creating interactive learning environments for students in its K-12 schools.

"The district has continually strived to provide the latest learning technologies such as issuing Gateway tablets to all teachers, granting broadband wireless capability to all campuses, and installing LCD projectors in each classroom.

"To ensure that all technology is up-to-date, the district developed a cyclical lease replacement program that is used each year regardless of budget circumstances."

"GCS's IT (instructional technology) Team developed new processes for professional learning that easily integrates new technology into the existing curriculum. Teachers actively participate in trainings that introduce tools to make classroom instruction efficient and valuable.

"In order to ensure that all students have access to adequate technology, the district has implemented its Homelink program. Through this program, old computers being recycled out of the schools are placed with free Internet access in the homes of students who otherwise would not have a computer.

"Along with the program is a parent-training component allowing parents to be involved in the technology that their children are learning."

Dr. Lyle Ailshie, director of schools, said, "The National Education Computing Conference, receiving the Sylvia Charp Award, and all the related activities has exceeded all of our expectations.

"The attention we have received from vendors and attendees has been overwhelming. I realize more than ever how blessed I am to work with such an outstanding technical staff, administrators, teachers, school board, and support staff that understands it is impossible to provide a 'world class' education without the appropriate integration of technology.

"Finally, I want to specifically thank Beverly Miller for her vision and leadership, without which none of this would be possible."

Miller, Greeneville's chief technology officer, said "As we conclude our time in San Antonio today, I am most thankful for the opportunities our team has had to connect with instructional technology leaders around the world.

"Winning the ISTE Sylvia Charp Award was obviously a career highlight for me and for others on my team. However, having four days to network with visionary instructional technology leaders from diverse international places has simply been priceless.

"We return to Greeneville today refreshed, renewed and reenergized -- eager to take our program to a higher level.

"We would like to thank our community including our students, teachers, parents and community members. Your support is crucial to our success and we appreciate it immensely."

Greeneville received $2,000 toward NECC registration, travel and housing for its representatives.

The Charp Award is named in honor of the late Dr. Sylvia Charp, an ardent, lifelong supporter of ISTE and its mission.