Long Range Plan for Technology

I was excited to see the level of aspirations the state has for our Texas school-children as well as the driving force behind the upcoming technology requirements for students and schools. The biggest issue I see, is the lack of funding to keep up with the changing times. The part of the 2020 plan that is most exciting to me was to have a 1:1 ratio of computers to students.

It is inspiring to see the level of technology available and the eagerness to implement it in the classroom. I am currently in charge of the Vision 2020 grant that my high school received in July 2009. This grant is part of the Long Range Plan for Technology. Each of the freshman students and teachers that teach any freshman received a laptop. The laptop immersion program has opened many new opportunities to use technology in the classroom. The teachers have received professional development and will continue to receive on going training. Students are eager to participate and create their own information products using their laptops. The teachers are also catching the technology “bug” and are excited about creating technology infused lessons.

The other freshman teachers and I collaborate and share our lessons. We place our technology integrated lesson on our school server so that other teachers on campus may review and use the lessons. Some teachers are already looking and revising our lessons to meet their needs. It is definitely a step in the right direction. By implementing new technology, training, and collaboration, it helps move the teachers and students into the new global technology age. After reviewing the complete Long Range Plan for Technology, I am made aware of the great responsibility that I have been given as an instructional leader. I am responsible for guiding technology use and integration for the freshman teachers and students on my campus. It is also crucial that I provide a good example for the other teachers and students on my campus.

Technology across the globe has transformed every aspect of business, government, society, and life. Schools must prepare our students for the increasing technological demands. Teachers must receive the most up-to-date professional development so they are prepared to teach the students in a 21st century manner. Advances in technology, science and mathematics have created an intellectual race. The 21st century learning must be skilled in technology to keep up with the growing economy.