iPads will supplement crayons and flashcards in kindergarten classes. Many supporters are excited with this technological development in the country’s educational system, but detractors think that we may be wasting a lot of money on something pupils may be too young to appreciate.

Next fall, around 300 young children in kindergarten in central Maine will receive iPad2 tablets to help them learn 1-2-3s, ABCs, drawing, and all other things we learn in kindergarten. Amy Heimerl, kindergarten teacher from Auburn, said that she is excited for this entirely new adventure where both students and teachers will share a learning experience. Heimerl said she is thrilled to see where this innovation will take teachers and students alike.

Sue Millard, a mother of two, said that the $200,000 proposed budget on the iPads could be used on other school programs that could produce bigger gain for students. She said she understands that everyone has to keep up with latest advancements in technology but thinks kindergarteners may be too young to appreciate the worth of iPads.

In 2002 and 2003, Maine was the first state to distribute laptops among their seventh and eighth grade students. Since then, the project expanded and now almost half of their students are equipped with laptops to aid them in their studies. Last week, the school board approved the plan of giving students iPad2 units next fall.

Superintendent Tom Morril said that iPad tablets are easy to use and can encourage students to enjoy learning with music and more colorful imagery.