We are just as firm in our commitment to keep our classrooms as “low tech” as possible beyond some standard devices like a document camera and projector that greatly aid the work of our teachers. There is increasing evidence that overuse of electronics by children has serious, long-term detrimental effects on their development and mental health. We also remain steadfast in our belief that children should use electronics only as much as is necessary. Due to the exceptionally-rich classical, liberal arts education our students receive-an education that offers them so much more than a simple test could measure-our students regularly perform highly on standardized assessments, including the STAAR exam. For more on our approach to standardized testing, visit /testing. In addition, our students’ performance on the STAAR exam is an important component in determining the Accountability Rating we receive from the State of Texas. Nevertheless, the STAAR test represents one element of our holistic approach to evaluating our students’ academic progress. We seek to educate the whole person-mind and body, heart and soul. At Great Hearts Irving, we do not teach to the test.
