The Texas Long-Range Plan

The Texas Long-Range Plan for Technology addresses the needs of education now and in the future. This plan is divided into four areas: Teaching and learning; Educator preparation and development; Leadership, administration and instructional support; and infrastructure for technology. The plan has been developed in three phases: 2006-2010, 2011-2015, and 2015-2020. This allows for planning to be on-going with frequent reviews and revisions.

The teaching and learning strand deals with the wide variety of backgrounds that our students have. Emphasis on student learning will help our students to better adapt to a changing world. Distance learning can be a great asset for many of students in smaller school systems and/or of socio-economically deprived regions. Technology can equalize the playing field for all of our students.

The second strand, Educator preparation and development is crucial. Educators need to understand technology in order to be able to teach it to their students. Opportunities need to be provided both in college courses and on the district level to help our educators gain the necessary knowledge to succeed and be comfortable with 21st century skills.

The third strand is Leadership, Administration and Instructional Support. As administrators, we must model as well as require use of technology. Time must be given for staff development that is useful and effective. It isn't enough to provide for staff development, time for collaboration and implementation is also essential.

The infrastructure, the last area deals with making sure that necessary equipment is provided to meet the standards. Wide-band internet access, proper technical support, and accessibility to all users comes through this infrastructure.

As an administrator, I must I must be familiar with the expectations of the state and district. I need to actively seek staff development opportunities for myself and my staff to help them meet the standard set forth. I need to be aware of the equipment and supplies needed to implement the standards. I also need to be aware of best practices and changes that come about because of the advancement of technology in our changing world.