Times have changed, technology has changed and Eastside High School has changed as well to meet the needs of today’s learner with its laptop initiative.

There are 58 students at Eastside who have registered their personal laptop, notebook or iPad with the school, which allows them to wirelessly connect to the school network.

They take notes in class, use Microsoft applications through Webapps, and conduct research on class topics. They can begin to write "papers" at school and continue the work at home.

Many times these projects are electronically submitted to the teachers. Students are able to save to the school network and print their work in the media center if a paper copy is required.

Even though desktop computers are available in the media center and in instructional labs, often these students prefer to use their own equipment.

Eastside has 13 students taking classes through Georgia Virtual School this semester.

Students are required to meet eligibility requirements and be approved in order to participate in Georgia Virtual School. They are able to take courses that are not offered on campus. Classes include German, Japanese, AP Art History, AP Human Geography and more.

Students receive their assignments for the day via computer.

Virtual School participant Ryan Moore says he prefers to keep his files together on his laptop.

"It is easier to just have everything together and accessible on the laptop," he said.

Fellow Virtual School student Nic Walter echoed the sentiment.

Some teachers on staff also prefer to use their personal laptops in the classrooms.

The school administration is aware of no problem presented by students using their personal computers in the classroom. The students have shown responsibility and appreciate the opportunity to work between school and home.