Learning at Independence Primary School is full of curiosity—and recently, that curiosity was sparked by a blend of culture, technology, and imagination in Stephanie Roberts’ kindergarten classroom.
With support from Technology Integration Specialist Melissa Garcar, kindergarten students explored questions they were genuinely curious about, known as their “wonderings,” as they learned about different cultures from around the world. Along the way, students were introduced to an important new skill: how to use a search bar to find information online—an age-appropriate step in building early digital skills.
As students worked independently, Roberts led a small-group reading activity, allowing learning to happen in multiple ways at once. The classroom buzzed with excitement as 5- and 6-year-olds searched, discovered, and shared what they were learning—connecting reading, social studies, and technology in a natural and engaging way.
What made the experience especially meaningful was how seamlessly it fit into the classroom routine. Technology wasn’t the focus—it was simply a tool that helped students explore their interests, ask questions, and make connections to the world around them.
“The kids had so many wonderful and thoughtful wonderings,” said Roberts. “Where is Australia? What is this (the compass rose) on the maps? What do the “little dots” (islands) mean? What do the lines (boundaries) on the map represent? How many islands are there? What is the most popular food in the world? What countries are in North America? Does every country have a flag? Do all flags look the same, and do people know they have them? Their curiosity was truly fun to see! And the best part was that so many of their wonderings led to even more wonderings.”
These moments are the result of strong collaboration and trust between teachers and support staff across Independence Local Schools. By working closely with classroom teachers, Garcar helps ensure technology is used in ways that truly support learning and student curiosity—starting at the primary level.
Looking ahead, this same forward-thinking approach is helping prepare students for the future at every age. Garcar is also collaborating with a secondary teacher to help develop a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) course, expanding future learning opportunities and keeping Independence students ready for a rapidly changing world.
This classroom experience is just one example of how Independence Local Schools is creating meaningful learning opportunities—nurturing curiosity, encouraging growth, and supporting students at every stage of their educational journey.
Some more "I wonder's"…
About flags.
About Jamaica.
How many islands are there?
If people know where Ohio is.
About NSEW.
What do all the other flags look like - states and countries?
What animals live in Australia.
The different colors on the map.
About Antarctica and what else is on the top and bottom of the Earth
What is in North America?
Where is Dubai?
How big the Earth is.
Do all the countries know they have a flag?
How Earth was made.
How the Earth spins and how it is so BIG.
Why all the flags are different colors??
Why is there a South Dakota and a North Dakota??
What other places have for food.
About Ohio.
