09/03/2026
TOLBERT THROWBACK THURSDAY | 50 YEARS • 50 MEMORIES
This week’s Tolbert Throwback Thursday takes us back to 1996, when Tolbert was making headlines for innovation in education!
A Calhoun Times article highlighted Tolbert’s KidTracs Techno-Plaza and Theme Park, an innovative technology lab designed to give students and educators hands-on experience with emerging technology.
The unique learning space featured computers, scanners, audio and video equipment, multimedia resources, and interactive learning areas, including the Food and Fashion Station, Learning Labs, Varmints and Vegetation Station, and a hydroponic garden.
The technology lab also attracted educators beyond our community, with the newspaper reporting that it was designed to draw educators from across the nation to Tolbert to explore new approaches to technology and hands-on learning.
These photographs provide a special glimpse into Tolbert nearly 30 years ago, when students and educators were already learning through technology, creativity, exploration, and collaboration.
Today, that same spirit continues through STEAM education. While the computers and technology may look very different, Tolbert’s commitment to providing students with opportunities to design, create, problem-solve, and discover remains strong.
The technology has changed, but the spirit of innovation remains.
As we celebrate 50 years of Tolbert Elementary School, we honor the educators, students, families, and community partners who helped build a tradition of learning and innovation that continues today.
Do you remember Tolbert’s Techno-Plaza? Were you a student, educator, parent, or visitor during this time? Share your memories in the comments!
Honoring Our Past • Celebrating Our Present • Inspiring Our Future.
