In the 2010 Long Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020, progress in the four key areas of the plan are detailed. Programs, grants, and initiatives in each of the key areas; teaching and learning, educator preparation and development, leadership administration and instructional support, and the infrastructure for technology, are discussed in detail. These programs, grants, and initiatives as well as the STaR chart data, have been the reason why we are well on our way to meeting the goals of the LRPT.
We are making substantial progress in the area of teaching and learning to increasing access to 21st century resources. The STaR chart data shows that we are moving toward the developed and advanced tech indicators each year. It is clear that the technology application TEKS are being taught but the LRPT recommends that they be revised overtime to align with 21st century skills. Programs and grants such as TIP, Vision 2020 grant, T3 Grant, Connections, R-Tech, and K-12 databases are helping educators immerse Texas classrooms in technology, improve student achievement, and overcome academic obstacles.
In the area of educator preparation and development, we are functioning in the developing indicator with some growth shown in advanced tech. Initiatives like Project Share, Intel Teach, and Texas Education on ITunes University are helping provide educators with continuing education needed to effectively teach in t 21st century classrooms. It is imperative that educators are being prepared for technology integration. All teachers and librarians are required by the LRPT to show development and proficiency in the technology standards.
Leadership, administration, and instructional support have show growth in the developing tech and advanced tech areas. Advanced tech has grown substantially from 2008-2009 to the 2009-2010 school years. Through the STaR chart data, leaders are able to make budgetary decisions based on campus and district needs. Future plans for the Educational Technology Advisory Committee involve using Project Share to examine the LRPT and determine priorities for 2011-2015. Changes have already been made to allot $30 per student for technology. School administrator technology proficiency is also being reported. Strong leadership that is proficient in technology fosters a campus climate that is following the lead of their administrators in the area of technology.
Infrastructure in technology has been improving yearly and has reached the advanced tech indicator in most schools. Connected Texas is working to provide information in order to improve the broadband connection in 1 million homes. TETN provides the 20 regional service centers in Texas with technology resources. Internet safety programs are a high priority. The CIPA mandates that schools have an internet safety policy. There will be no E-Rate discounts unless schools have these policies in place.
Each regional service center is providing resources that support the goals of the LRPT. Efforts are being made to improve and make changes based on the needs of the 21st century learner. Texas is making great strides toward those goals and will continue to monitor progress in the area of technology. We strive to create experiences and opportunities for students that will foster success.
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