Jefferson Third Grade teacher, Kim Scott and third grade student, Shelby Pierce, look on as Zack Barney completes his task on the classroom's new Smartboard.

MASSENA -- Massena’s Jefferson Elementary has used the first part of an ALCOA Foundation Technology Grant to purchase 11 smart boards and LCD projectors.

The purchase is the first part of a two-year, $53,000 grant designed to give students the interactive tools to learn educational concepts. The grant aims to get students involved and engaged to improve student performance.

Each teacher received smart board training from an in-house technology expert to ensure the best use of the new technology.

“We are extremely grateful for this generous grant and look forward to the positive impact that our new technology will have on present and future students,” said principal Duane Richards.

“These lucky students are now taking virtual field trips, learning math by moving objects on screen with a touch of their fingers, participating in webinars, and even accessing interactive books,” he said.

The final phase of the grant, which will be completed next school year, will install smart boards and LCD projectors in the remaining classrooms.