Literacy recently took a major step forward at James Whitcomb Riley School 43, thanks to the new Pacers Media Center.
Members of the Pacers Foundation and CareSource, an Ohio-based health care company, joined the school’s staff to celebrate the transformation of the facility’s more traditional library into a technology education media center.
Members of the Indiana Pacers, the city’s men’s NBA team, spent a few days over spring break updating the center by adding technological improvements, new Pacers-themed furniture, and a few dozen new books for the school, which serves Grades Pre-K through 8.
Dr. Michelle Jackson, executive director of teaching and learning at Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), said the new learning facility joins several similarly expanded or upgraded media centers across the district.
“At IPS, media centers have gained increasing popularity because of their focus on providing technology, access to online resources, and spacious areas for class and group collaboration,” Jackson said. “This has been done as part of IPS’ efforts to improve literacy for every child in every classroom in every school. And, this awesome new media center at James Whitcomb Riley helps us continue our literacy efforts throughout the district.”
Principal Lauren Johnson commended the Pacers Foundation and CareSource at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, explaining to her students that the new Pacers Media Center will enhance their educational experience.
“I want to thank the staff of the Pacers Foundation and the Indiana Pacers for being here today to showcase how their hard work and dedication is playing a role in transforming our school.” she said. “At James Whitcomb Riley, we now have a modern media center that will be the cornerstone of many of our educational programs.”