While iPads are stirring controversy in Kanawha County, WV administrators at a school in Cabell County, WV say their pilot project proves the devices can be a valuable teaching tool.

After seeing a report on 13 News the technology director at Milton Middle School reached out with a perspective she hoped will help other schools make the transition.

Milton Middle School student Harper True is a member of the first class to have individual iPads to take home. Even she had some concerns at first.

“We all know 8th graders aren’t the most responsible sometimes,” True said. “You have a charger and a case that you have to take care of as well.”

In spring 2014 the school leaders were approached about the idea. In July a group of teachers went to Chicago for training. Then they returned to Milton and hosted a 15 week course for other employees.

“Our students really took it to heart and took really good care of their devices,” said Teacher Bonnie Conner.

Assistant Principal Debbie Underwood said the training helped teachers embrace the idea. “Students are more engaged,” Underwood said. “It is livening up classrooms. Teachers are having to think differently and having to think beyond pencil and paper and think of different ways for students to learn.”

Teachers and students said there were a few hiccups along the way including some lost chargers, broken screens and the need to fine tune some of the filtering systems.