Sanchez Elementary School
Technology Plan

Executive Summary

Sanchez Elementary School is located in Austin, Texas. We are a first through sixth grade school, with a student population of approximately 600. Our student population reflects the diverse multiethnic community of Austin, comprising a minority population of about 60 percent.

The purpose of our technology use plan is to formalize and document how Sanchez Elementary School will implement technology in the next 2 years to support student learning and achievement, instruction, and administration. The two year technology plan is built on a vision that prepares students technologically to be lifelong learners. Sanchez Elementary School will become a community of learning among educators, businesses, students, and parents, each working cooperatively to prepare all students for success. Sanchez Elementary School will provide the learning environment that nurtures a positive self-esteem and makes learning challenging and relevant to everyday living. We will provide a comprehensive curriculum that fosters effective communication, creativity, critical thinking and problem solving. Our plan is intended to integrate technology into the curriculum. It is based on data collected about student performance as well as classroom technology use, physical facilities, and equipment.

The planning cycle began in January 2003 with the formation of a Technology Use Planning Committee which was made up of a principal, parent, teacher, business representative and community member. In February 2003, clear mission and vision statements were established. In March 2003, a needs assessment was conducted using several testing instruments. Based upon these assessments, goals and objectives were developed at the end of March, 2003 and include the following goals:

• By the year 2003, the campus will implement, and update requirements for educator preparation and professional development to meet state technology standards.

• By the year 2003, the district will implement district guidelines and procedures which will standardize technology access, services, and support. For each goal, 2-5 appropriate and measurable objectives were developed.

• By the year 2004, teachers will implement a comprehensive plan for meeting student learning needs through use of technology.

The evaluation of these goals will help provide data to measure the campus's successful use of technology. Four methods of evaluation will be used.

1. Technology Plan Evaluation Checklist

2. Teacher Self-Evaluation Rubric

3. Campus Gantt Chart

4. Technology Integration Evaluation Tool

The plan defines a number of strategies that are being implemented to assist the campus in achieving its goals. A description of professional development strategies and other types of support for technology use and integration, as well as various requirements of the Texas Department of Education, are also included. We believe that this plan will improve teaching and learning at our campus as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of the entire Sanchez learning community.

Specific projects planned to support our Technology Use Plan and meet our goals include the following:

1. Curriculum Projects - Easy Tech + • Wise Choice Software Selection

2. Professional Development Projects - Annual Technology Academy • Curriculum-Focused Software Training • End-Users Support Training • Network Management & Support Training • Tool Software Training

3.Infrastructure, Hardware and Technical Support Projects - Campus Connectivity Upgrades • Help Desk Support • Wide Area Network

The projects were developed in April, 2003 and will be implemented throughout the summer of 2003 and the 2003-2004 school year. The total estimated cost for implementing the plan is $137,250.00.

Timeline

Spring 2003-
1a) Pretesting of technology proficiency of students,
1b) Sessions for selecting software
1c) Software purchase
1d) Teacher self-evaluation
1e) Training of advanced personnel

Summer 2003-
2a) Laying down lines and cables for the infrastructure
2b) Wiring upgrades
2c) Adding wiring drops and ports
2d) Connection of switches and router
2e) Installation of classroom computers and peripherals
2f) Installation of new telephone system and computer software support
2g) Training for help desk support
2h) Training for technology trainers
2i) Training sessions for teachers,
2j) Training sessions for technology and network support personnel

Fall 2003-
3a) Establish first quarter student portfolio
3b) Conduct a campus technology fair
3c) Review software selection
3d) Survey teachers for software satisfaction
3e) Training for technology trainers
3f) Evaluate integration of technology

Spring 2004-
4a) Review student achievement
4b) Add to student portfolio for the third and fourth quarter
4c) Test technology proficiency of students
4d) Teacher self-evaluation
4e) Training for technology trainers
4f) Survey parents, teachers and students
4g) Summarize campus technology integration
4h) Annual reevaluation of technology plan

Living in a global society where access to information is crucial has transformed the way we live, work, and learn. The integration of technology makes optimal use of equipment while following our vision and goals. Sanchez Elementary School has developed this two-year technology plan to meet these challenges and prepare our students to live and learn in this world.