The goal of integrating technology into the curriculum has become fully realized at the secondary level. Many of the courses offered at the junior and senior highs require sophisticated equipment and programs. Some examples include business, art, journalism, vocational technologies, media, and photography. All other courses use programs and equipment to help students learn the content and skills of the curriculum. Keeping up to date with the programs and equipment is critical to preparing students for the world of work and for post-secondary education.

• The technology needs to be evaluated on an ongoing basis to determine current needs and future direction for the curriculum.
• As new classes are added, stakeholders (curriculum specialists, faculty, and administration) will be involved in assessing and approving implementation of appropriate technologies with support and advice from ITS. Each group provides input appropriate to their expertise.
• There will be a need for additional computers within specific classrooms, depending on subject area. Requests can be made by departments for consideration of additional equipment through the District Technology Recommendation / Review committee and the Educational Programming Department.

Goals / Vision

All teachers will have access to the tools of technology needed to deliver the district curriculum.

1. All teachers will have appropriate training to integrate the use of technology effectively in their teaching.
2. All students will have equal access to the tools of technology necessary for their success in learning.
3. Definition: Tools of Technology include but are not limited to:

• Presentation hardware and software; e.g., PowerPoint, Textbook resource materials.
• Specialized hardware and software; e.g., Film department uses special editing equipment, the art department uses high-end printers, math department uses graphing calculators, etc…
• Communication and management software; e.g., E-mail, grading and attendance programs, etc…

Recommendations

Hardware:

• Teachers will have presentation systems in their classrooms in order to effectively deliver district curriculum.
• Teachers in specialized curricular areas need to have their equipment and curricular needs reviewed on a regular basis, i.e. business, film studies, art, to name a few.
• With the increased integration of technology, students need improved access to technology in order to complete work.

Software:

• Teachers and students need access to the most current versions of software.
• Integrating attendance, grade program, and other student management programs would improve efficiency for teachers and increase the number of teachers using the programs.

Staff Development:

• Staff development is a key piece of any technology plan. Teachers need timely and appropriate staff development in order for them to use technology effectively and efficiently.
• Communication from the district technology department and the buildings is critical. Helping teachers to understand what resources are available, what policies and procedures are in place and why, and what procedures need to be followed to request hardware, software, and support is important to their success in utilizing technology.

District (ITS) support:

• The District must have the necessary staff to support the District’s technology. Keeping the technology operational is critical to any integration of technology into the curriculum. Information Technology Services functions as support and service to the educational mission of students, teachers, and administrators.