From Outdated Projectors to Connected Classrooms
What started as a routine monitor purchase turned into a full-scale technology transformation at Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools (WRPS).
Serving nearly 4,700 students across 13 campuses, the district first discovered BenQ interactive flat panels during a demo at a local edtech conference—and the impact was immediate.
“It was nothing like we’d seen before,” said Phil Bickelhaupt, Executive Director of Technology. “The clarity, interactivity, and integration capabilities made us rethink how learning spaces should function.”
Building a Future-Ready Foundation
Over the past four years, WRPS has replaced outdated projectors and early smart boards with more than 240 BenQ RP03 and RP04 interactive flat panels, with plans to reach nearly 300 by the 2025–26 school year.
More than 200 boards are installed directly in classrooms, while others enhance collaboration in libraries, conference rooms, and coaching spaces.
The district also uses over 500 BenQ monitors, creating a visually consistent and tech-forward experience across all campuses.
Why BenQ: Integration, Interactivity, and Simplicity
Seamless Google Workspace Integration
EDLA Google Certified BenQ Boards’ deep integration with Google Workspace was a key differentiator. Teachers log in with NFC cards to instantly access Google Drive and lesson files—no laptop required.
The panels support wireless casting from student devices and plug-and-play document cameras, removing the need for additional adapters or software.
Interactive Learning that Engages Every Student
With EZWrite and up to 40 points of touch, students actively participate in lessons—annotating, problem-solving, and collaborating directly on screen.
Compared to old projectors, the difference is striking: no dimmed lights, no bulbs to replace, and crisp, vibrant visuals that keep students engaged.
Smart Management for IT Teams
From the IT perspective, BenQ’s Device Management System (DMS) changed everything. Administrators can push updates, schedule power cycles, and install apps remotely across hundreds of boards.
Bickelhaupt shared one memorable moment:
“I once resolved a Zoom app issue 40 miles away from my phone while driving to my daughter’s basketball game. By the time I arrived at the gym, the board was already fixed.”
Professional Development and Teacher Buy-In
Younger teachers quickly adopted the new tools, while professional development helped veteran educators feel confident with the technology.
Over time, teachers across all grade levels began integrating BenQ interactive displays into daily instruction, improving collaboration, flexibility, and student engagement.
The result? Classrooms that feel dynamic, adaptable, and aligned with how students learn today.
The Results: Smarter, Brighter, More Engaging Classrooms
- Engaged learners: Interactive lessons and instant access to digital content boost participation.
- Streamlined operations: No more bulb replacements or calibration issues.
- Improved IT efficiency: Remote updates and app management save hours each week.
- Unified ecosystem: From monitors to boards, every display aligns under the BenQ ecosystem.
- Future-ready classrooms: Infrastructure now supports hybrid learning and collaboration tools.
How BenQ Stands Out in the Interactive Display Market
In the competitive interactive flat panel market across the U.S. and Canada, BenQ distinguishes itself from brands like Promethean, SMART Technologies, ViewSonic, and Boxlight through:
Native Google and Microsoft integration
Built-in whiteboarding and annotation tools (EZWrite)
Advanced device management (DMS)
Health and safety features — including low blue light, flicker-free, and germ-resistant screens
No additional subscription fees for core software
Lessons Learned
- Phase upgrades strategically. Starting with monitors first helped staff adapt gradually.
- Invest in training. Professional development ensured every teacher could use the boards effectively.
- Leverage centralized control. DMS simplified IT tasks and improved response times.
- Encourage peer collaboration. Teachers shared success stories and tips to support one another.
- Plan for scalability. Upgrading network and power infrastructure ensured long-term success.
A Connected Campus for the Future
Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools’ transition from projectors to BenQ Interactive Boards showcases how thoughtful planning, robust training, and innovative technology can transform teaching and learning.
With BenQ powering every classroom, WRPS has built a connected, collaborative, and future-ready district—one where students are more engaged and teachers are empowered to do their best work.
Conclusion
The transformation at Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools is more than a technology upgrade—it’s a blueprint for how K–12 districts can reimagine teaching and learning in the digital era.
By replacing outdated projectors with BenQ Interactive Boards, the district created connected classrooms that inspire collaboration, engagement, and innovation every day.
From effortless Google Workspace integration to powerful device management and hands-on interactivity, BenQ delivers technology that adapts to teachers, not the other way around.