The Keller ISD Technology Plan is much like the National Educational Technology Plan (NETP) just more on a basic step by step process. They have a very realistic strategy for technology and have an ongoing assessment that states if the technology initiatives are in progress or completed. Keller does recognize that technology does not only need to be incorporated into lessons and in the classroom so they are successful in using it now and in their future.
Keller identifies that the infrastructure and support systems are a vital key component to this plan. The infrastructure is important because if the software, equipment, and Internet bandwidth are not being extended or added, then the teachers cannot work toward the goal of teaching and learning. This needs to be an ongoing assessment of telecommunication services. This goal is important to making the curriculum authentic and real to the 21st century learner as well as incorporating higher level thinking and problem solving skills that the students can take with them now and into the future. Due to budget cuts, I am aware that many of the software programs that were used in the classroom have been cut. It is so hard to make these goals reality when we are in such a budget crisis in Texas. We have GOT to fix this budget crisis within our nation, state, schools, and communities because the students are suffering and they are our future.
Professional development is another key goal because teachers are lifelong learners as well. Keller’s strategy is to always provide on-going training and support, facilitating online learning, and communicate instructional strategies that emphasize the use of digital tools. Keller ISD was one of the first districts to establish K Connect, a share point portal for all district information for employees. I know many teachers that use this on a regular basis. However, due to the recent budget cuts, I know that schools no longer have a 24/7 tech support that is easily accessible to teachers that they had in prior years. Administration has their own goals to launch and incorporate technology standards which have already come into play. They also use data collected by the STaR chart as well as other assessments to guide their decisions. This is a very ongoing evaluation process. While Keller recognizes the need for technology and change in the way we teach and learn, they also believe quality instruction is and always will be the basis for student engagement. No matter how much or how well you include technology into the classroom, if you are not teaching with quality, the students will not learn.
Keller Independent School District Advisory Committee. (n.d.). Keller ISD Technology Plan 2009-2011. Retrieved August 30, 2011, from Keller ISD: http://www.kellerisd.net/community/technology/Documents/District_Technology_Plan/District_Technology_Plan.pdf
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