Internet access was an important part of my plan. I want to be able to provide our community members with opportunities to receive internet at an affordable price. Broadband internet access plays a critical role in equitable learning, especially as technology continues to change our thoughts of education. Per the survey done, in my community, internet access is a mixed issue—many students have reliable service at home, but there are still a number of families, especially in more rural or low-income areas, that struggle with consistent, high-speed internet. While the district does offer the ability to check out Wi-Fi hotspots, those are reserved for students doing all of their schooling virtually, making it more difficult on families who may need the assistance. I found that there wasn’t so much an issue with the ability to receive high speed internet in our area, but more of an issue with affordability. Helping the community members through training and outreach as well as making more members aware of the Affordable Connectivity Plan, which includes a $30 month discount for households falling below 200% of the federal poverty or those participating in federal assistance programs. (Digital Equity Plan, 2024)
The ISTE (2018) guidance places an emphasis on how access and equity must be in the forefront for technology planning. The importance of UDL and creating a personalized learning environment so all students can thrive is very important as well. Since only 15% of available funds can be used on devices, my focus is shifting to more outreach and professional development. Though our district already has secured funding for devices and 1:1 is currently in place it’s important to note that technology alone isn’t enough-combining it with strong teaching strategies (enhanced through meaningful professional development) and equal access will help
As for funding options my district has received $1.75 million to help with implementations of STEAM in the classroom. The funds are reserved for helping students retain science and math information by providing resources-district art teacher, STEAM related PD, art supplies, STEM coordinator, and other technological tools. These grants show the shift in the district with regards to budging. The hiring of STEM teachers has allowed the district to save funds on Instructional technology coaches, by rolling that job description into the STEM teachers role. This will allow for a savings of funds that can be used for other areas. No public records were found that showed the technology budget for the district so this will have to be something else explored further.
Moving forward the best steps would include
1) Meeting with the curriculum director, grant writer and STEM coordinator to share my goals and gather feedback on how we can make improvements
2) Reaching out to the superintendent and technology department to vsee about piloting a program that would allow students the opportunity to take devices home on an as needed basis.
3) Meeting with the technology department to discuss budget for technology related services in the district.
Resources:
KSWO. (2024, December 6). Altus Public Schools awarded $1,000,000 toward STEM
Programs.https://www.kswo.com/2024/12/06/altus-public-schools-awarded-1000000-toward-stem-programs/
Altus Public Schools. (2023). STEM: Department of Defense Education Activity Grants. https://www.altusps.com/page/stem
Ed Arwine comment.
ReplyDeleteIt's great to hear about your work with STEAM integration, the UDL aspects seem extremely valuable to maintain a wide understanding of the cirriculum. Great to hear about your work!