Texas Long Range Technology Plan Progress Report

The Texas Long Range Technology Plan Progress Report reveals that Texas schools have come a long way in preparing our students and teachers for 21^st century classroom needs.  All four key areas of the plan Teaching and Learning, Educator Preparation and Development, Administration Support, and Infrastructure have shown significant improvement from 2008-2010.

In the area of Teaching and Learning classroom teachers are integrating more technology into their curriculum for increased student learning and engagement.   A lot of this progress is due to the many technology grants awarded by the state.  For example, my district last year was awarded a T3 Technology grant that provided all of the science departments for all four high schools Pasco Probe ware technology.  This grant allowed our teachers and students engage in meaningful learning through the use of technology.

Educator Preparation and Development has been a priority across the school districts in the State.  Teachers have many opportunities for growth in technology by attending trainings offered by the Education Service Centers.  One of the most meaningful advances in this area is the creation of Project Share.  I personally love it.  It allows teachers all over Texas attend online courses as well as share ideas, join groups of particular interests, etc.  Project Share is a great online tool that enhances collaboration between teachers and allows us to continue growing in our content areas as well as technology skills.

In the area of Administration support, school leaders continue to use the STaR Chart to evaluate their campus’ readiness towards technology goals and for continued improvement. 

Finally, the area of Infrastructure reveals that many students in our classroom have access to computers.  There is high speed internet and all classrooms have wireless access.  This is one of the strongest areas across the State.

After reading this report I feel confident that every year we move one step closer to meeting our technology goals.  As a teacher and future instructional leader I see the need to continue building my technology skills and embracing all of the great things to come.