Al Foley, Superintendent (2006-2007)

jyoung@redlakefalls.k12.mn.us 

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I.  Planning and Needs Assessment

1.      Organization Leadership and Technology Planning Committee

a.       There is a part-time informational technology coordinator at the high school and a part-time assistant technology coordinator at the elementary school.   The coordinators report all technology needs to the principals who then pass the recommendations along to the superintendent.

b.      The Superintendent of Schools, along with the District Technology Coordinator, lead a committee of the Lafayette High School Principal, J. A. Hughes Elementary School Principal, J. A. Hughes Assistant Technology Coordinator, District Media Specialist, 4 high school teachers, 2 elementary teachers, a special education teacher and 2 school board members who work together to make decisions regarding the future of technology in the district.  This committee meets as needed and uses a newsgroup network to report technology information to each other, via e-mail, throughout the year.  A report is presented to the School Board whenever significant discussion/decisions are made that affect the district technology plan.

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2.      Demographics of School District

a.       There are two public schools in ISD 630, one elementary and one high school.  Currently there are 164 students at J. A. Hughes Elementary and 224 students at Lafayette High School.

b.      Red Lake Falls Public Schools educates the citizens of Red Lake County in Northwestern Minnesota.

c.       We are fortunate to now have fiber optic technology in the area, which has sped up the internet connections and decreased time lost waiting for internet services during busy hours.  Our membership to The United Northwest Minnesota INFOCON has given us the opportunity to expand our technology beyond what we would have been able to do, having such limited resources due to our size and location in the state.

d.      Though our district is experiencing a minor reduction in student enrollment, we have experienced an increase of students with special needs.  In order to meet the needs of these new students our district has put a special focus on making all our facilities and programs adaptable.  We work with our local cooperatives to acquire equipment to help reach these students' ever-changing technology neeeds.

e.       Our Special Education staff and para-professionals have been trained on the use of a number of adaptive equipment and software/online programs that are geared specifically to our special needs students, which helps keep them technologically adept.

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3.      Needs Assessment

a.       As part on an INFOCON grant, we participated in an E2T2 Technology Effectiveness Survey which assessed the effectiveness of our technology tools and training.  The survey was offered on-line for administrators, teachers, and students and both online and in paper form for parents.  We will be repeating  the survey in March, 2007 to see if any progress has been made since the last assessment. 

b.      The E2T2 survey focused on Student Achievement, Student Engagement, Parent Communication, School Improvement Processes and Curriculum Integration.

c.       The key findings were that our school district is making progress toward technology integration across the curriculum.  The parents reported an improvement in communication via e-mail and our school’s website.  Administrators and teachers gained confidence in the ability to support technology integration.  Teachers indicated they felt more of a part of the technology and school improvement plans.  (The complete report can be found on our school website at: redlakefalls.k12.mn.us/technology_plan.htm/E2T2)

d.      The survey was completed by administrators, teachers, parents and students in grades 5, 8 and 11. 

e.       This survey was given in the winter of 2004 and again during the fall of 2005, to determine potential impact of training/implementation.  We will be repeating  the survey in March, 2007 to see if any progress has been made since the last assessment.  At the end of each school year the teachers and administrators fill our a Technology Needs Survey on which they record their software and hardware needs for the upcoming school year.  This survey helps us assess our current telecommunication services, hardware, software and online resources so that we can better see where we need to improve in order to meet the needs of our students, staff and community.

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II.  Vision, Goals, Objectives and Strategies for Technology

1.      Vision and Mission Statement

a.       The mission of Red Lake Falls Public Schools is to build pride and self esteem by providing total resources so individuals can reach their full potential.  Technology integration across the curriculum plays a vital role in fulfilling this mission statement.

2.    Vision of Technology

a.       The vision for technology in our schools is to support the educational mission of the district and to provide an environment in which all individuals in ISD 630 are empowered to become lifelong learners and effective users of information, ideas and technology.   Additionally, media/technology will support the administrative and management needs of the district.  ISD 630 has an obligation to prepare learners for the world in which they will live out their lives as well as to help staff meet the needs of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) requirements,

     3. 

a.       Technology has the potential to change how we work, teach and learn

b.      Technology is essential to our existence now and in the future

c.       Technology is no longer an option, but a way of life

d.      Technology helps learners become active learners

e.       Technology will never be static; change is continual and constant

f.        Technology is more than computers

4.  Interlinking of Technology to the Vision and Mission Statements

a.       The integration of technology will be used throughout the curriculum to meet the needs of NCLB

b.      Learners will be challenged to use technology when dealing with the Minnesota Academic Standards.

c.       Learners will discover that technology is a means to an end, not an end unto itself.

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5.  Technology Goals, Objectives and Strategies

a.       All teachers are encouraged to integrate technology into the curriculum.

b.      The district will continue to implement more assistive technology that will help our special needs students.

c.       Staff development continues to be one of the most important pieces to the successful execution of a technology plan.

d.      Access to the school's technology equipment and technology awareness programs (ie. Internet Safety) will be provided to the public through our Community Education program.

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6.  Minnesota Academic Standards Implementation

a.       Teachers will continue to integrate technology into the curriculum when possible while implementing the new Minnesota Academic Standards (ie. PowerPoint presentations will be used for instruction as well as student presentation.)

7.    Technology Literacy Standards

a.       The high school will be offering courses (with optional college credit) in computer repair/maintenance.

8.    Distance Learning Technology

a. There is an ITV lab in the high school through which various courses are taught and offered to 10-12 grade students in our own school as well as students in surrounding districts.

b.The ITV system is used to access education programs that are used in our elementary curriculum.  This service is also made available to our Parochial School students.

c. State-wide training workshops are made available to our staff through the ITV system.  (In the past our teachers had to travel to the Cities for these training sessions.)

9.  Alternative Curriculum Format

a.       Volunteers from the public realm as well as National Honor Society students record textbooks and tests that are used in the Special Ed classrooms as well as in our TAMP (Tutoring and Mentoring Program) room.

b.      Book Suite, Talking Books and Test Reader are used in our Special Ed program to convert text and tests to adaptive formats.

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10.  Innovative Initiatives

a.       The Multi-Media Class uses video editing software to produce a 5-minute news show that is aired once a week to the entire high school.  This program is then put on the school’s website for parents and anyone to view.  This class also makes a senior video that is shown during the graduation ceremony.

b.      The Multi-Media class records a weekly radio program that is published on two local radio stations.

c.       The Elementary Science Teacher has a classroom set of Palm Pilots and GPS’s that she uses for environmental lesson plans that expands across the curriculum.  These Palm Pilots will also be used by other teachers for a variety of projects that are based on the Minnesota State Standards.

d.      The upper elementary staff and students are in year three of a program, funded by HP grants, that uses technology to study and record the environment.  The faculty has presented at two ISTE conferences.

11.  Data Driven Decision Making

a.       In ISD 630 all of our district bookkeeping and student records are kept on computer using the administrative programs used by Region I, our Minnesota State Education governing agent.

b.      All students and staff of ISD 630 are issued ID cards that are bar-coded with an ID number.  This ID number is scanned in for the accounting and billing of our hot-lunch program.

c.       Our high school teachers all take hourly attendance on the computer in their classrooms. 

d.      An electronic grade book is used to record grades.  This program allows teachers to automatically transfer their grade book to the office via our administrative software..

12.  On-line Assessments

a.       The Accelerated Reader and Star Read programs are used in grades 2-11 to keep track of student reading progress and comprehension.

b.      The Accelerated Math Program is being introduced into our 7-8 math curriculum to help keep track of student progress and comprehension.

c.  The TAGLIT surveys are administered on-line.

13.  Parent Communication

a.       ISD 630 publishes a web site that supplies a wide variety of information to parents.  The e-mail addresses of all administrators and teachers are posted on this site.  Teachers class syllabi and homework assignments are available along with the lunch menu, activity calendar, daily bulletin, sports news and a wealth of other information about the many district offerings. 

b.      Our grade book program allows teachers to e-mail progress reports home to parents.

14.  Additional Technology Strategies

a.       We are currently working on automating our two Media Centers so that students can look up and check out books using computers.

b.      We have a weather station at our elementary school that can be accessed on the World Wide Web.

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III.  Policies and Procedures

1.      Equitable Access for Students with Exceptional Needs

 a.       The district has a number of large screen monitors and touch screens available.

b.      The district has a number of adaptive mice and one laser mouse for students with limited motor skills.

c.       We try to keep our website up to ADA compliance by periodically giving the individual pages the Bobby test.  (http://bobby.watchfire.com/bobby/html/en/index.jsp)

2.  Data and Network Security

 a.       Our server is equipped with a battery backup pack to protect against power outages.  The server is also equipped with a tape back-up system and tapes are kept in two separate locations to ensure minimal loss of vital data in case of a server malfunction.  We have anti-virus software on the server as well as on each P. C. to protect the district from computer viruses.  This software is updated daily on the server; weekly on individual machines.  A firewall is installed to protect students from easily accessing offensive and/or inappropriate material on the Internet.  The list of acceptable URL’s is updated weekly.

b.      At present we do not allow the public access to our secure LAN. 

 3.  Internet Safety and CIPA Compliance

 a.       At the beginning of each school year, each student is given a copy of the district's Acceptable Use Policy  (a copy of this document may be viewed on our district website at (http://www.redlakefalls.k12.mn.us/acceptable_use_policy.htm) which must be signed by the student and a parent or guardian before they are allowed to use the district computers.  Upon receipt of the signed policy form, the student is assigned a computer access number which must be used to log into the school's computers.  This number gives them access to many programs, purchased by the district and allows them to save work on the network so they may have access to their personal documents on all networked computers and gives them access to the school's networked printers. The district technology coordinators keep track of the student's computer activities.  The server is backed up, nightly to ensure files are not lost should there be a malfunction in the server.

 b.      We periodically have a speaker come into the schools and speak to the students about Internet Safety issues.

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IV.  Technology Infrastructure, Management, and Support

             1.  Technology Infrastructure

 a.       ISD 630 has a fiber-optic Ethernet-based digital ITV system set up through 702 Communications  and maintained by Garden Valley Telephone Company.  This allows us ITV connections to several schools and educational centers for class-sharing as well as programs sponsored by the State Department of Education and other educational institutions.

b.      The district computers are connected to the Internet with a T-1 line managed by 702 Communications and Garden Valley Telephone Company.  ISD 630 has a web-site and staff e-mail managed by the Red River Valley Network.

 c.       There are three PC computer labs as well as PC computers and laptop computers in the Media Center in the high school; one connected PC computer lab, one stand-alone PC computer lab, one adaptive PC computer lab and PC computers in the Media center at the elementary school to which students have access to use through out the school day.  We have large screens and headsets equipped with microphones available for students with special needs.  There is a student/Internet-connected computer ratio of 3/1in the high school and 4/1 in the elementary school. 

 d.      Each teacher in ISD 630 has a networked PC computer in his/her classroom.  In addition, there are 3 networked PC computers for student use located in the two Special Ed classrooms and the TAMP room at the high school. 

e.       All administrators and administrative staff, counselors and school social workers have networked PC computers at their desks.

2.  Age of Equipment/Equipment Replacement Schedule

a.       The Information Technology Coordinator, Assistant Technology Coordinator, High School and Elementary Principals have compiled an inventory of all technology equipment and it's location in the district (this is a district publication entitled "The Red Lake Falls Public Schools Technology Handbook--Our Look into the Future") in October, 2000.  The information in this handbook is updated yearly.

b.      We have computers ranging in age from 1997-2003. 

c.       We have a replacement schedule in place in the district that has been approved by the technology committee.  Each year five new computers are purchased for the high school PC Computer lab.  These new computers replace the 5 oldest computers in the lab which are then moved into the high school Media Center.  The 5 oldest computers in the Media Center are then moved to classrooms in either the elementary or high school as needed. 

 d.      The computers and software in the CAD and Synergistic Labs will be replaced on a rotating schedule.  All 11 computers in the CAD were replaced with refurbished P II computers in 2002.  All 11 computers in the Synergistic Lab will be replaced in 2004.  This schedule will continue every two years or as needed.  The software programs in these two specialty labs will be replaced on the schedule of two work stations per year.

 e.       The computers in the administrative offices are replaced on a rotating basis with new systems; approximately every 3-4 years.  The teachers computers are replaced with refurbished computers every 2-4 years as needed.  The old computers are moved to wherever there is need within the district.

 f.        We purchased 30 refurbished Palm Pilot 500’s with keypads and 15 GPS’s that will be used throughout the elementary at all levels.  Currently we have two science projects that use these systems with the students.

 g.       Three administrators were given Palm Pilots and training for their usage.  These are used to help make their administrative duties a little less cumbersome.

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3.  Technology Support Staff

 a.       ISD 630 has two part-time technology specialists who handle the day to day maintenance of the district's computers and network.  When they are unable to make proper reparations, they consult the Norwest Service Cooperative Technician who has been contracted to maintain the district computers when it is a hard-ware or network problem that is beyond the expertise of the district technology specialists.

b.      The two technology specialists attend conferences, workshops and trainings whenever possible to help keep them up to date on the latest equipment.  The main challenge we have is as our equipment ages it takes a lot of the technician’s time to keep things running smoothly.  The technology coordinators often come in after hours to work on the equipment as there are not enough hours in the regular day to perform all the tasks they are required to perform to keep all this technology up and running.

c.       As more students with needs move into our district we continue to add assistive/adaptive technology into our programs.  The special ed teachers regularly attend meetings on this new technology so they are able to implement it into their program.

d.      With the large amount of projects that are done by students as the teachers strive to meet the Minnesota State Standards and requirements of No Child Left Behind, we find that we are going through a lot more ink cartridges, black, color and laser, as the amount of printing has increased with every year (and every project).  This extra cost is very hard to add into our budget as we have a difficult time estimating how many cartridges we will go through in a year.  This year we have spent over $5000.00 on ink cartridges alone.  We have also had to purchase more printers as this high capacity of printing has been too hard on our economy printers.  We are looking into purchasing two color laser printers to help keep down the costs of both printers and cartridges.  Unfortunately, with the budget cuts that are coming across from the state, it is not easy to find money for technology purchases that are not covered by E-Rate.

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 V.  Role of the School Media Center

             1.  Media Center Facilities and Holdings

 a.       The shelf list of both J A Hughes Elementary and Lafayette High School has been electronically catalogued by the Northern Lights Library Network.  This information is on disks and we are in the process of inputting this data into our automated program, Follett.  We hope to soon have this available for staff and student use.  There are two designated computers for student use, one at each school and two administrative computers, one at each school, which will be equipped with a scanner that will be used to keep track of media circulation.  All of the books will be labeled with a barcode that will work with the scanner.  The two media specialists have been trained by Follett and will be ready to move ahead as soon as we get the scanners and barcodes in place.  Due to unforeseen budget cuts and time restrictions, we have not yet been able to implement this system into our school districts though the software is already in place on the server.

 b.      The Media Specialist has an inventory of all media equipment (televisions, VCR's, LCD projectors, TVAtors, etc) and its location in the district.  She goes through this list yearly and submits requests to the administration when she feels a piece of equipment needs to be added or replaced or upon the request of a staff member, in order to better serve the students and staff of ISD 630 and to keep up with the ever-changing improved technology.  The Media Specialist is a member of the Technology Committee and has input into every aspect of technology in the school district.

 c.       The Media Specialist purchases quizzes that go along with the AR program as needed.  With the great increase of reading that is taking place at both schools, the number of quizzes and books being purchased is increasing every year.   Budget cuts to our district have not yet hit hard in the Media Center as our district feels literacy is a very important element in our overall educational process.

2.  Media Center as a Learning Environment

a.       The Media Specialist works with the teachers as they try to implement NCLB and the Minnesota State Standards by helping them find information, both in paper and electronic form, to complete projects.  The Media Specialist will have books set out and web site URLs saved to the computer desktop to save time so that the students can quickly and efficiently find the information they need to complete these projects.  The Media Center Supervisor helps the students print out this information, in color or black and white, when necessary.

b.      At the beginning of every school year the Media Specialist has the 7^th grade English teacher bring his/her students into the Media Center for a mini-training session.  At this session students are oriented on the many uses of the Media Center.  Specific areas covered are the basic set-up of the Media Center (where the reference books are located, fiction section, biographies, etc.), Accelerated Reading Information, Computer use procedures and how to fill out a form when you need something printed off in color.

c.        The Media Specialist, and Technology Coordinators regularly train the staff to use the wide variety of software and equipment that is available for staff and student use in both Media Centers.  In 2003, the elementary Media Center Supervisor/Assistant Technology Coordinator showed the elementary teachers and staff  how to use the educationally based search engine Nettrekker, which was purchased by the consortium to which we belong, INFOCON, for use within our schools for one year.

 
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3.  Training of Media Specialist

    a.       ISD 630 encourages the Media Specialist to attend all library related workshops and training sessions, that will help her better assist students and staff as they do research for the many tasks associated with the Minnesota Grad Standards, as well as those sponsored by the Northern Lights Library Council to help in the implementation of the electronic card catalogue.  The district's Media Specialists and technicians are sent to training programs for various programs/ software that will enhance their ability to assist and support the students and staff of ISD 630.

4.  Media Center Collaboration/Affiliation

a.       ISD 630 is a member of the Northwest Service Coop through which we are able to borrow a number of media sources such as video tapes, CD’s, DVD’s, etc. 

b.      ISD 630 is a member of the Northern Lights Library system through which our Media Center staff get training.  The NLL also electronically catalogued our books to help us get ready for automation.

c.       ISD 630 is a member of the United Northwest Minnesota INFOCON, a consortium of rural, public and private schools.  Through this consortium we are able to purchase many on-line resources (such as Nettrekker and Atomic Learning) that help us provide a vast amount of assistance to our staff and students.

 5. Information Literacy and Technology Standards

 a.       A new K-6 technology curriculum will be implemented beginning at the 3^rd and 4^th grade levels in the Fall of 2004.  The goal of the district is to teach keyboarding and several basic computer skills at the elementary level.  We are in the process of writing a 7-12 technology curriculum.  This curriculum will be grand-fathered in as the newly trained students at the elementary level reach the high school.

b.      The Media Center Specialist/Supervisor at both schools test all students, grades 2-11, one to three times a year, using the Star Read Program.  The results of this test help us track the literacy progress of the students of ISD 630. 

 
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VI.  Staff Development and Training

       1.  Integration of Technology

 a.       a.  ISD 630 encourages all teachers and staff members to take advantage of the many technology training opportunities that present themselves throughout the year that will enhance the implementation of technology into their current curriculum. 

b.      The district purchases 5 days of technology training from the NWSC.  Teachers may use this training to have the computer specialist for NWSC come into the classroom to teach the students how to use a particular software program.  These days may also be used to have the NWSC trainer come into the school and give a workshop to some or all of the staff on a particular software program.

 c.       Through INFOCON, the Assistant Technology Coordinator and one elementary teacher went through the 40-hour INTEL Teach to the Future training the summer on 2003.  In turn, they will be training at least 20 staff members in this program sometime in 2004.

 d.      The district has set aside several half-days throughout the school year for staff  training and preparation.  When time allows, the Media Specialist and Technology Coordinators run 1 to 4-hour technology workshops that introduce websites or software to the teachers and give ideas how they can be integrated into a lesson plan within the current curriculum.

 2.  Improving Technology Skills

 a.       The district allots 1% of the yearly budget for staff development and training.  In addition, our partnership with INFOCON includes some training sessions/opportunities that are paid for by our membership dues and grant monies.

b.      ISD 630 staff members are encouraged to take advantage of the many technology workshops that are offered at the nearby Northwest Service Cooperative each summer and throughout the year.  Software products commonly used within our district are featured in half and all-day workshops at a reasonable price that is reimbursed by the district through our allotted staff development money. 

c.       Though no formal technology skills standards have been established within our school district, all staff and administration are encouraged to continue to improve their technology knowledge and skills to meet the needs of the parents and students of ISD 630.  Staff members are notified of all technology training that is available to them throughout the year and staff development money is allotted to them for this vital training.

3.  Administrative Software

a.       The school district uses an integrated administrative software program to record student information.  This software program is used to make mandatory reports to the Minnesota Department of Education.  It is also used to keep track of student grades, transcripts, attendance, discipline history, health information, lunch billing, etc.  The school administrative staff is encouraged to attend trainings to learn how to use this software effectively and efficiently.

b.      Teachers of ISD 630 use the grade reporting software that goes along with the administrative software.  The District Technology Coordinator has developed a quick-guide on how to best use this grading program.  Also, a training session is set up at the beginning of each school year, during the regular pre-school workshop days, to introduce the new faculty members to the software and to refresh the information for the returning staff.

c.       New high school teachers are trained how to use the administrative software to take daily attendance.

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 VII.  Budget For Technology

            1.  Yearly Technology Budget

a.       ISD 630 has set aside $10,000 for the yearly technology budget that is specifically for non-managerial items  (ITV, Internet, telephone and administrative software updates are paid through the General Fund.)  This will be revised annually as the district budget is reviewed by the School Board, with the implementation of the three year technology plan in mind.  This amount has decreased from the original amount of $15,000.00 which was originally planned before the state changed their funding to the local school districts.  We also  and with the of discontinuation of TARP

b.      Title II money is used to pay for instructional technology and technology-related staff development.  This usually amounts to around $2000.00 per year.

c.        The superintendent and teachers are always looking for grants to help purchase technology and software.  INFOCON is also continually looking for grants to be used by the consortium for teacher training, software and on-line programs.

d.      We recycle ink cartridges and use that money towards the purchase of software and print cartridges for the elementary school.

  2.  Yearly Technology Expenditures

 a.       Each year ISD 630 designates an amount of the budget for telecommunications, network support and various other technology-related items/services.  The district applies for E-Rate whenever possible.  The following is a list of the approximate yearly expenditures:  hardware--$8,000.00;  software--$1,000.00;  printers--$1,00.00; consulting contracts--?????;  telecommunications services--?????; staff--????;  technology-based staff development for all district employees--????; supplies--?????; facilities--??????;  ITV services--??????;  Consortium dues--$100.00; Any other tech-related expenditures that we might have forgotten.?????????

 

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VIII.  Implementation Plan

       1.  Basic Schedules and Timelines

 a.       a.  In May of each year, we will send an e-mail to all teachers and distribute flyers advertising the summer technology-based course offerings at the NWSC and any other workshop information that we have at that time.

b.      During the yearly August teacher workshop days we will offer various training session, such as Webquest integration, PowerPoint as a teaching tool, etc. to encourage teachers to implement technology into their every-day teaching activities

c.       In August, 2004, our district will co-sponsor a Best Practices Seminar in collaboration with INFOCON.  All teachers will be encouraged to attend these technology-integration-based mini-workshops.

d.      All para-professionals are required to complete Para E-Link competency training by January 2006 to meet NCLB requirements.  This training is being conducted by our para-professionals with the guidance/training by NWSC trainers.  Each para-professional is to complete a portfolio that demonstrates they are competent in 9 areas of education.

e.       In June of each year, the two technology coordinators compile a list of technology-related equipment/software/accessories needed for the upcoming school-year and submit it to the superintendent for approval.  This list is established in accordance to our three-year technology plan.

      2.  Budget Commitments

 a.       a.  In April of each year the superintendent submits a technology budget to the school board for their approval.

b.      Grants are sought out throughout the year to help acquire more technology to aid us in the implementation of new technology into our ever-changing curriculum to better meet the requirements of NCLB and the Minnesota State Standards.

       3.  Equipment Purchases

 a.       a.  The technology coordinators send out a list of the hardware specs to a number of vendors for bids upon receipt of superintendent approval to the equipment purchase request.  This same process is followed for all tech-related equipment.

b.      Equipment is ordered after all bids have been received and reviewed so that it is received prior to the beginning of the next school year.

c.       If emergency/special equipment/etc. purchasing needs arise during the school year, this same process is followed to ensure the district is getting the best prices available.

d.      We plan on purchasing the lunch program Café Terminal, which goes along with our administrative program, SassiXP, within the next three years.  This will add an initial $3480.00.  Then, each year it will cost $600.00 for technical support.

      4.  Communication Strategies

 a.      a.       The technology coordinators will e-mail the Technology Committee members throughout the year to let them know how the implementation of the plan is going.  We will use the newsgroup format when discussion is necessary on specific concerns, and call a committee meeting when appropriate.

 b.      The board members on the committee will report progress to the school board at their regular meetings when appropriate.

      5.  Evaluation of Progress 

a.       The technology specialists will annually review the progress of the staff and recommend appropriate training to all teachers to ensure they are taking advantage of the diverse technology provided in order to keep ISD 630 students and staff competitive.

 b.      The Technology Committee of ISD 630 will meet annually to review the current Technology Plan.  At this meeting, they will assess the progress of the implementation and make recommendations for any revisions to the plan that they see necessary to ensure the objectives of the mission and vision statements are being met.  The proper implementation of this Technology Plan will ensure the students of ISD 630 will remain competitive and employable. 

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 This plan was completed March 27, 2007 with the input of the following people:

ISD 630 Superintendent                                            Al Foley

Lafayette High School Principal                               Joel Young

J. A. Hughes Elementary Principal                          Jan Anderson

Media Specialist                                                       Patricia Purath

Informational Technology Coordinator                   Lynn Vatthauer

Assistant Technology Coordinator                        Jane Thibert

A. Planning and Needs Assessment

B. Vision, Goals, Objectives, and Strategies for Technology

C. Policies and Procedures

D. Technology Infrastructure, Management, and Support

E. Role of School Media Center

F. Staff Development and Training

G. Budget for Technology

H. Implementation Plan

I. Evaluation Plan 

Evaluation of 2001-2004 Technology Plan

Explanation of Abbreviations

Abbreviation Full Name

CAD Computer Aided Drafting

INFOCON Northwest United INFOCON

JAH J. A. Hughes Elementary School

LHS Lafayette High School

NCLB No Child Left Behind

NWSC Northwest Service Cooperative

TAGLIT Taking a Good Look at Instruction Technology Online Survey

TAMP Tutoring and Mentoring Program

A. Planning and Needs Assessment

1.      Organization Leadership and Technology Planning Committee  

a.       There is a part-time informational technology coordinator at the high school and a part-time assistant technology coordinator at the elementary school who report all technology needs to the principal who then passes the recommendations along to the superintendent, who makes his final requests to the school board.  

b.      The superintendent of schools, along with the high school and elementary school technology coordinators, lead a committee of the high school principal, elementary school principal, district media specialist, 4 high school teachers,2 elementary teachers, a special education teacher and 3 school board members who work together to make decisions regarding the future of technology in the two schools.  This committee will meet once a year, in the spring, and as needed throughout the school year.  The committee will use a newsgroup network to report technology information to each other, via e-mail, during the school year.  A report will be presented to the School Board whenever significant discussion/decisions are made that affects the district technology plan.

2.      Demographics of School District  

a.       There are two public schools in ISD 630, one elementary and one high school.  Currently there are 164 students at J. A. Hughes Elementary and 224 students at Lafayette High School .  Forty-three percent of these students qualify for the free and reduced lunch program  

b.      Red Lake Falls Public Schools educate the citizens of Red Lake County   in Northwestern Minnesota .  

c.       ISD 630 owns and operates several busses, vans and Suburbans that are used to transport students to and from the public and Parochial schools.  This fleet includes a handicap assessable van and two mini busses equipped with wheel-chair lifts.  

d.      Over the past three years our community has experienced an increase of students with special needs.  In order to meet the needs of these new students our district has put a special focus on making all our facilities and programs accessible and adaptable.  

3. Needs Assessment

a.       Between 2002-2003 all certified staff members took the on-line TAGLIT Instructional Technology survey.  At the end of each year a Technology Needs Survey is given to all certified staff members to assess purchasing needs for the upcoming school year.  In November, 2003, all 4^th - 6^th grade students took the on-line TAGLIT student technology skills survey.  

b.      Technology skills, competence, comfort and training needs were areas addressed in the TAGLIT surveys.  Software, hardware and peripheral needs are addressed in the Technology Needs Survey.  

c.       Technology Integration into the curriculum is a great need in our district.  Updating equipment and software is another important necessity.  The need for staff training was a key result of the TAGLIT survey.  

d.      At the February 4, 2004 Technology Meeting, the members, which included the two technology coordinators, classroom teachers, a special ed teacher, a board member and administrators, discussed the results of the needs assessments as well as evaluating the 2001-2003 Technology Plan.  Several needs were addressed and recommendations were made for this year’s plan.  A regular rotation of updating the current software and hardware in our Business, CAD and Synergistic labs was set up by the technology committee.  Assistive Technology will be implemented and purchased as needed including adaptive hardware and accessories (ie. laser mouse, touch screens).  Various software programs as well as Assistive Technology Based Web Sites will be integrated into the curriculum.   

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B. Vision, Goals, Objectives and Strategies for Technology 

1.      Vision and Mission Statement  

a.       The mission of the district media/technology program is to support the educational mission of the district, to help staff meet the needs of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) requirements, and to provide an environment in which all individuals in ISD 630 are empowered to become lifelong learners and effective users of information, ideas and technology.  Additionally, media/technology will support the administrative and management needs of the district.  ISD 630 has an obligation to prepare learners for the world in which they will live out their lives.  

2.    Vision of Technology  

a.       Technology has the potential to change how we work, teach and learn.  

b.      Technology is essential to our existence now and in the future.  

c.       Technology is no longer an option, but a way of life.  

d.      Technology helps students become active learners.  

e.       Technology will never be static; change is continual and constant.  

f.        Technology is more than computers.  
 

3.    Interlinking of Technology to the Vision and Mission Statements  

a.       The integration of technology will be used throughout the curriculum to meet the needs of NCLB  

b.      Learners will be challenged to use technology when dealing with the Minnesota Academic Standards.  

c.       Learners will discover that technology is a means to an end, not an end unto itself.          

4.    Technology Goals, Objectives and Strategies  

a.       Curriculum must meet the present and future needs of all learners.  A new K-6 technology curriculum will be implemented beginning at the 3^rd and 4^th grade levels in the Fall of 2004.   

b.      All teachers will be required to integrate technology into the curriculum.  

c.       The district will implement more assistive technology that will help students with special needs.  

d.      Staff development is one of the most important pieces to the successful execution of a technology plan.  

e.       Access to the school's technology equipment and technology awareness programs (ie. Internet Safety) will be provided to the public.  

5.    Minnesota Academic Standards Implementation  

a.       Teachers will continue to integrate technology into the curriculum when possible while implementing the new Minnesota Academic Standards (ie. PowerPoint presentations will be used for instruction as well as student presentation.)
 

6.    Technology Literacy Standards           

a.       Beginning Fall 2004 our district will be implementing a new K-12 technology curriculum which will greatly change the way students and teachers use technology in the classroom.  The curriculum was written to coincide with ISTE/NCATE Standards.
 

7.    Distance Learning Technology  

a.       There is an ITV lab in the high school through which various courses are taught and offered to 9-12 grade students in our own school as well as students in surrounding districts.  

b.      The ITV system is used to access educational programs that are used in our elementary curriculum.  This service is also made available to our Parochial School students.  

c.       State-wide training workshops are made available to our staff through the ITV system.  (In the past our teachers had to travel to the Cities for these training sessions.)  

8.    Alternative Curriculum Format  

a.       Volunteers from the public realm as well as National Honor Society students read and record textbooks that are used in the Special Ed classrooms as well as in our TAMP (Tutoring and Mentoring Program) room.  

b.      Book Suite and Test Reader are used in our Special Ed program to convert text and tests to adaptive formats.  

9.  Innovative Initiatives  

a.       The Multi-Media Class uses video editing software to produce a 5-minute news show that is aired once a week to the entire high school.  This program is then put on the school’s website for parents and the public to view.  This class also makes a senior video that is shown during the graduation ceremony.  

b.      The Multi-Media class records a weekly radio program that is published on two local radio stations.  

c.       The elementary school  has a classroom set of Palm Pilots and GPS’s that is currently being used in the Science courses for environmental lesson plans that expands across the curriculum.  These Palm Pilots will also be used by other teachers for a variety of projects that are based on the Minnesota Academic Standards.  

10.  Data Driven Decision Making  

a.       In ISD 630 all of our district bookkeeping, payroll and student records are kept on computer using the administrative programs used by Region I, our Minnesota State Education governing agent.  

b.      High school students and staff are issued ID cards that are bar-coded with an ID number.  This ID number is scanned in for the accounting and billing of our hot-lunch program.  

c.       Our high school teachers all take hourly attendance on the computer in their classrooms.   

d.      An electronic grade book is used to record grades.  This program allows teachers to automatically transfer their grade book to the office via our administrative software.
 

11.    On-line Assessments  

a.       The Accelerated Reader and Star Read programs are used in grades 2-11 to keep track of student reading progress and comprehension.  

b.      The Accelerated Math Program is being introduced into our 7th-8^th grade Math curriculum to help keep track of student progress and comprehension.  

c.  The TAGLIT surveys are administered on-line.
 

12.    Parent Communication  

a.       ISD 630 publishes a web site that supplies a wide variety of information to parents.  The e-mail addresses of all administrators and teachers are posted on this site.  Teachers class syllabi and homework assignments are available along with the lunch menu, activity calendar, daily bulletin, sports news and a wealth of other information about the many district offerings and happenings.   

b.      Our electronic grade book program allows teachers to e-mail progress reports home to parents.
 

13.    Additional Technology Strategies  

a.       We are currently working on automating our two Media Centers so that students can look up and check out books using computers.  

b.      We have a weather station at our elementary school that can be accessed on the World Wide Web.

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C. Policies and Procedures    

1.        Equitable Access for Students with Exceptional Needs  

a.       The district has a number of large screen monitors and a touch screen available.  

b.      The district has a number of adaptive mice and one laser mouse for students with limited motor skills. More equipment will be added if the need arises.  

c.       We try to keep our website up to ADA compliance by periodically giving the individual pages the Bobby test (an on-line resource that checks for special needs capabilities).
 

2.    Data and Network Security  

a.       Our server is equipped with a battery backup system to protect against power outages.  The server is also equipped with a tape back-up system to ensure minimal loss of vital data in case of a server malfunction.  There is anti-virus software on the server as well as on each P. C. to protect the district from computer viruses.  This software is updated daily on the server and weekly on individual machines.  A firewall is installed to protect students from easily accessing offensive and/or inappropriate material on the Internet.  The list of acceptable URL’s is updated weekly.  

b.      At present we do not allow the public access to our secure LAN nor do we plan on making it available in the near future.  

3.    Internet Safety and CIPA Compliance  

a.       At the beginning of each school year, each student is given a copy of the district's Acceptable Use Policy  (a copy of this document may be viewed on our district website at (http://www.redlakefalls.k12.mn.us/acceptable_use_policy.htm) which must be signed by the student and a parent or guardian before they are allowed to use the district computers.  Upon receipt of the signed policy form, the student is assigned a computer access number which must be used to log into the school's computers.  This number gives them access to many programs, purchased by the district and allows them to save work on the network so they may have access to their personal documents on all networked computers and gives them access to the school's networked printers. The server is backed up nightly to ensure files are not lost should there be a server malfunction.  

b.      We periodically have a speaker come into the schools and speak to the students about Internet Safety issues.  We also plan on holding a Parent Awareness Night each year.  During this meeting we will stress parent involvement with Internet usage at home.  During this event we will show parents where to go on their computer to track where their sons/daughters have been on the Internet and show them useful sites on the Internet to ensure their children are using safe Internet practices.

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D. Technology Infrastructure, Management, and Support    

1.    Technology Infrastructure  

a.       ISD 630 has a fiber-optic Ethernet-based digital ITV system set up through 702 Communications  and maintained by Garden Valley Telephone Company.  This allows us ITV connections to several schools and educational centers for class-sharing as well as programs sponsored by the State Department of Education and other educational institutions.  

b.      The district computers are connected to the Internet with a T-1 line managed by 702 Communications and Garden Valley Telephone Company.  ISD 630 has a web-site and staff e-mail managed by the Red River Valley Network.  

c.       There are three PC computer labs as well as PC computers and laptop computers in the Media Center in the high school; one connected PC computer lab, one stand-alone PC computer lab, one adaptive PC computer lab and PC computers in the Media center at the elementary school to which students have access throughout the school day.  We have large screens and headsets equipped with microphones available for students with special needs.  There is a student/Internet-connected computer ratio of 3/1in the high school and 4/1 in the elementary school.   

d.      Each teacher in ISD 630 has a networked PC computer in his/her classroom.  In addition, there are 3 networked PC computers for student use located in the two Special Ed classrooms and the TAMP room at the high school.   

e.       All administrators and administrative staff, counselors and school social workers have networked PC computers at their desks.
 

2.    Age of Equipment/Equipment Replacement Schedule  

a.       An inventory of all technology equipment and it's location in the district is compiled in a booklet (entitled "The Red Lake Falls Public Schools Technology Handbook--Our Look into the Future").  The information in this handbook is updated yearly.  

b.      There are computers ranging in age from 1997-2003 in the district.  

c.       The district has an equipment replacement schedule is in place that has been approved by the technology committee.  Each year five new computers are purchased for the high school business computer (PC) lab.  These new computers replace the 5 oldest computers in the lab which are then moved into the high school Media Center.  The 5 oldest computers in the Media Center are then moved to classrooms in either the elementary or high school as needed.   

d.      The computers and software in the CAD and Synergistic Labs will be replaced on a rotating schedule.  All 11 computers in the CAD were replaced with refurbished P II computers in 2002.  All 11 computers in the Synergistic Lab will be replaced in 2004.  This schedule will continue every two years or as needed.  The software programs in these two specialty labs will be replaced on the schedule of two work stations per year.  

e.       The computers in the administrative offices are replaced with new systems on a rotating basis; approximately every 3-4 years.  The teachers’ computers are replaced with refurbished computers every 2-4 years as needed.  The old computers are moved to wherever there is need within the district.  

f.        The district purchased 30 refurbished Palm Pilot 500’s with keypads and 15 GPS’s that will be used throughout the elementary school at all levels.  Currently we have two science projects that use these systems with the students.  

g.       Three administrators were given Palm Pilots and training for their usage.  These are used to help make their administrative duties a little less cumbersome.
 

3.    Technology Support Staff  

a.       ISD 630 has two part-time technology specialists who handle the day to day maintenance of the district's computers and network.  When they are unable to make proper reparations, they consult the Northwest Service Cooperative Technician who has been contracted to maintain the district computers when it is a hardware or network problem that is beyond the expertise of the district technology specialists.  

b.      The two technology specialists attend conferences, workshops and trainings whenever possible to help keep them up to date on the latest equipment.  The main challenge is as the equipment ages it takes a lot of the technician’s time to keep things running smoothly.  The technology coordinators often come in after hours to work on the equipment as there are not enough hours in the regular day to perform all the tasks they are required to perform to keep all this technology up and running.  

c.       As more students with special needs move into our district assistive/adaptive technology is added into our programs.  The Special Ed. teachers are encouraged to regularly attend meetings on this new technology so they are able to implement it into the district.  

d.      With the large amount of projects that are done by students, as the teachers strive to meet the Minnesota Academic Standards and requirements of NCLB, the district is using a lot more ink cartridges, black, color and laser, since the amount of printing has increased with every year (and every project).  This extra cost is very hard to add into our budget as we have a difficult time estimating how many cartridges we will go through in a year.  In 2003-2004 we spent over $5000.00 on ink cartridges alone.  We have also had to purchase more printers as this high capacity of printing has been too hard on our economy printers.  We are looking into purchasing two color laser printers to help keep down the costs of both printers and cartridges.  Unfortunately, with the budget cuts that are coming across from the state and with a decline in enrollment, it is not easy to find money for technology purchases that are not covered by E-Rate and/or grants.  

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E. Role of the School Media Center   

1.    Media Center Facilities and Holdings  

a.       The shelf list of books in the libraries of both J A Hughes Elementary and Lafayette High School has been electronically catalogued by the Northern Lights Library Network.  This information is on disks and we are in the process of inputting this data into our automated program, Follett.  We hope to soon have this available for staff and student use.  There are two designated computers for student use, one at each school and two administrative computers, one at each school, which will be equipped with a scanner that will be used to keep track of media circulation.  All of the books will be labeled with a barcode that will work with the scanner.  The two Media Specialists have been trained by Follett and will be ready to move ahead as soon as we get the scanners and barcodes in place.  Due to unforeseen budget cuts and time restrictions, we have not yet been able to implement this system into our school districts though the software is already in place on the server.  

b.      The Media Specialist has an inventory of all media equipment (televisions, VCR's, LCD projectors, etc) and its location in the district.  She goes through this list yearly and submits requests to the administration when she feels a piece of equipment needs to be added or replaced or upon the request of a staff member, in order to better serve the students and staff of ISD 630 and to keep up with the ever-changing improved technology.  The Media Specialist is a member of the Technology Committee and has input into every aspect of technology in the school district.  

c.       The Media Specialist purchases quizzes as needed that go along with the AR program.  With the great increase of reading that is taking place at both schools, the number of quizzes and books being purchased is increasing every year.   Budget cuts to our district have not yet hit hard in the Media Center as our district feels literacy is a very important element in our overall educational process.
 

2.    Media Center as a Learning Environment  

a.       The Media Specialist works with the teachers as they try to implement NCLB and the Minnesota Academic Standards by helping them find information, both in paper and electronic form, to complete projects.  The Media Specialist will have books set out and web site URLs saved to the computer desktop to save time so that the students can quickly and efficiently find the information they need to complete these projects.  The Media Center Supervisor helps the students print out this information, in color or black and white, when necessary.  

b.      At the beginning of every school year the Media Specialist has the 7^th grade English teacher bring his/her students into the Media Center for a mini-training session.  At this session students are oriented on the many uses of the Media Center.  Specific areas covered are the basic set-up of the Media Center (where the reference books are located, fiction section, biographies, etc.), Accelerated Reading Information, computer use procedures and how to fill out a form when you need something printed off in color.  

c.       The Media Specialist and Technology Coordinators regularly train the staff to use the wide variety of software and equipment that is available for staff and student use in both Media Centers.  In 2003, the elementary Media Center Supervisor/Assistant Technology Coordinator showed the elementary teachers and staff  how to use the educationally based search engine Nettrekker, which was purchased by the consortium to which we belong, INFOCON, for use within our schools for one year.
 

3.    Training of Media Specialist  

a.       ISD 630 encourages the Media Specialist to attend all library related workshops and training sessions that will help her better assist students and staff as they do research for the many tasks associated with the Minnesota Academic Standards, as well as those sponsored by the Northern Lights Library Council to help in the implementation of the electronic card catalogue.  The district's Media Specialists and technicians are sent to training programs for various programs/ software that will enhance their ability to assist and support the students and staff of ISD 630.

4.    Media Center Collaboration/Affiliation  

a.       ISD 630 is a member of the Northwest Service Coop through which we are able to borrow a number of media sources such as video tapes, CD’s, DVD’s, etc.   

b.      ISD 630 is a member of the Northern Lights Library (NLL) system through which our Media Center staff gets training.  The NLL also electronically catalogued our books to help us get ready for automation.  

c.       ISD 630 is a member of the United Northwest Minnesota INFOCON, a consortium of rural, public and private schools.  Through this consortium we are able to purchase many on-line resources (such as Nettrekker and Atomic Learning) that help us provide a vast amount of assistance to our staff and students.  

5.     Information Literacy and Technology Standards  

a.       A new K-6 technology curriculum will be implemented beginning at the 3^rd and 4^th grade levels in the Fall of 2004.  The goal of the district is to teach keyboarding and several basic computer skills at the elementary level.  We are in the process of writing a 7-12 technology curriculum.  This curriculum will be implemented when the newly trained students at the elementary level reach the high school.  

b.      The Media Center Specialist/Supervisor at both schools test all students, grades 2-11, one to three times a year, using the Star Read Program.  The results of this test help us track the literacy progress of the students of ISD 630. 

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F. Staff Development and Training   

1.    Integration of Technology  

a.       ISD 630 encourages all teachers and staff members to take advantage of the many technology training opportunities that present themselves throughout the year that will enhance the implementation of technology into their current curriculum.   

b.      The district purchases 5 days of technology training from the NWSC.  Teachers may use this training to have the computer specialist for NWSC come into the classroom to teach the students how to use a particular software program.  These days may also be used to have the NWSC trainer come into the school and give a workshop to some or all of the staff on a particular software program.  

c.       Through INFOCON, the Assistant Technology Coordinator and one elementary teacher went through the 40-hour INTEL Teach to the Future training the summer of 2003.  In turn, they will be training other staff members in this program.  

d.      The district has set aside several half-days throughout the school year for staff  training and preparation.  When time allows, the Media Specialist and Technology Coordinators run 1 to 4-hour technology workshops that introduce websites or software to the teachers and give ideas how they can be integrated into a lesson plan within the current curriculum.
 

2.    Improving Technology Skills  

a.       The district allots 1% of the yearly budget for staff development and training.  In addition, our partnership with INFOCON includes some training sessions/ opportunities that are paid for by our membership dues and grant monies.  

b.      ISD 630 staff members are encouraged to take advantage of the many technology workshops that are offered at the nearby Northwest Service Cooperative each summer and throughout the year.  Software products commonly used within our district are featured in half and all-day workshops at a reasonable price that is reimbursed by the district through our allotted staff development money.   

c.       Though no formal technology skills standards have been established within our school district, all staff and administration are encouraged to continue to improve their technology knowledge and skills to meet the needs of the parents and students of ISD 630.  Staff members are notified of all technology training that is available to them throughout the year and staff development money is allotted to them for this vital training.  

3.    Administrative Software  

a.       The school district uses an integrated administrative software program to record student information.  This software program is used to make mandatory reports to the Minnesota Department of Education.  It is also used to keep track of student grades, transcripts, attendance, discipline history, health information, lunch billing, etc.  The school administrative staff is encouraged to attend trainings to learn how to use this software effectively and efficiently.  

b.      Teachers of ISD 630 use the grade reporting software that goes along with the administrative software.  The District Technology Coordinator has developed a quick-guide on how to best use this grading program.  Also, a training session is set up at the beginning of each school year, during the regular pre-school workshop days, to introduce the new faculty members to the software and to refresh the information for the returning staff.  

c.       New high school teachers are trained how to use the administrative software to take daily attendance.

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G. Budget For Technology
   

1.    Yearly Technology Budget  

a.       ISD 630 has set aside $20,000.00 for the yearly technology budget for computer-related purchases.  Basic computer supplies run about $20,000.00 per year .  The yearly budget for the running technology; ITV, Administrative service contracts, telecommunications, etc., is approximately $60,000.00, for a grand total of nearly $100,000.00.  A portion of the $60,000.00 is reimbursed through the E-rate program.  

b.      Title II money is used to pay for instructional technology and technology-related staff development.  This usually amounts to around $2000.00 per year.  

c.       The superintendent and teachers are always looking for grants to help purchase technology and software.  INFOCON is also continually looking for grants to be used by the consortium for teacher training, software and on-line programs.  

d.      We recycle ink cartridges and use that money towards the purchase of software and print cartridges for the elementary school.  

2.    Yearly Technology Expenditures  

a.       Each year ISD 630 designates an amount of the budget for telecommunications, network support and various other technology-related items/services.  The district applies for E-Rate whenever possible.  The following is a list of the approximate yearly expenditures:  hardware--$17,000.00; educational software--$1,000.00;  printers--$1,000.00; technology supplies (hubs, cables, etc)-- $1,000.00; printer cartridges--$6,600.00; copier contracts--$15,600.00;  anti-virus software--$1,800;  Sonic Fire Wall upgrades/ contract--$1100.00;  administrative consulting contracts--$14,700.00; administrative software/ updates--$800.00  telecommunications services--$9000.00;  cell phones--$1,800.00;  staff--$21,000.00;  technology-based staff development for all district employees--$1,500.00; ITV services--$12,000.00;  Consortium dues--$100.00.  The average yearly technology expenditures for ISD 630 is $105,00.00 before E-rate, Title and other compensatory funding programs.  

b.      When technology equipment that was not figured into our budget is needed throughout the year, Title II money is used if grant money is unavailable.

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H. Implementation Plan  

1.    Basic Schedules and Timelines 

a.       In May of each year, the District Technology Coordinator will send an e-mail message to all teachers and distribute flyers to all staff members advertising the summer technology-based course offerings at the NWSC and any other technology-oriented workshop information that we have at that time. 

b.      In June of each year, the two Technology Coordinators compile a list of technology-related equipment/software/accessories needed for the upcoming school-year and submit it to the superintendent for approval.  This list is established in accordance to our three-year technology plan. 

c.       During the yearly August teacher workshop days the district will offer various training session, such as Webquest integration, PowerPoint as a teaching tool, etc. to encourage teachers to implement technology into their every-day teaching activities. 

d.      In August, 2004, our district will co-sponsor a Best Practices Seminar in collaboration with INFOCON.  All teachers will be encouraged to attend these technology-integration-based mini-workshops. 

e.       All para-professionals are required to complete Para E-Link competency training by January 2006 to meet NCLB requirements—the district para’s began this training in 2003.  This training is being conducted by our para-professionals with the guidance/training of NWSC trainers.  Each para-professional is to complete a portfolio that demonstrates they are competent in 9 areas of education. 

2.    Budget Commitments 

a.       In April of each year the superintendent submits a technology budget to the school board for their approval. 

b.      Grants are sought out throughout the year to help acquire more technology to facilitate the implementation of new technology into our ever-changing curriculum to better meet the requirements of NCLB and the Minnesota Academic Standards. 

c.       The superintendent applies for E-Rate each January.   
 

3.    Equipment Purchases 

a.       The Technology Coordinators send out a list of the hardware specs to a number of vendors for bids upon receipt of superintendent approval to the equipment purchase request.  This same process is followed for all tech-related equipment. 

b.      Equipment is ordered after all bids have been received and reviewed so that it arrives prior to the beginning of the next school year. 

c.       If emergency/special equipment/etc. purchasing needs arise during the school year, this same process is followed to ensure the district is getting the best prices available. 

d.      ISD 630 is considering purchasing the lunch program Café Terminal, which goes along with our administrative program, SassiXP, within the next three years.  This will add an initial $3480.00 to our technology budget.  Then, each year it will cost the district $600.00 for technical support.   
 

4.    Communication Strategies 

a.       The Technology Committee will meet in the spring of each year to discuss the progress of the 3-year plan.  Throughout the year the technology coordinators will e-mail the Technology Committee members to let them know how the implementation of the plan is going.  A newsgroup format will be used when discussion is necessary on specific concerns, and the Technology Coordinator will call a committee meeting when appropriate. 

b.      The board members on the committee will report progress of the 3-year plan to the school board at their regular meetings when appropriate. 

5.    Evaluation of Progress 

a.       The technology specialists will annually review the progress of the staff and recommend appropriate training to all teachers to ensure they are taking advantage of the diverse technology provided in order to keep ISD 630 students and staff competitive. 

b.      The district administrators will make sure all staff is properly trained if NCLB and/or Minnesota Academic Standards requirements change to include technology into the curriculum. 

c.       In April of each year, the district administrators will review the technology needs of the district to see if it is necessary to increase the number of technology-trained staff and make plans to either hire more or increase hours of the current staff if the need arises.

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I. Evaluation Plan   

      1.    Evaluation Process of 2004-2007 ISD 630 Technology Plan  

a.       The Technology Committee of ISD 630 will meet annually to review the current Technology Plan.  At this meeting, they will assess the progress of the implementation and make recommendations for any revisions to the plan that they see necessary to ensure the objectives of the mission and vision statements are being met as well as NCLB and state requirements.  The Technology Coordinator will takes notes on all changes and record them as changes are made to the plan.  The proper implementation of this Technology Plan will ensure the students of ISD 630 will remain competitive and employable. 
 

2.      Evaluation of 2001-2004 ISD 630 Technology Plan  

a.       On February 4^th, 2004 , the Technology Committee met to evaluate the 2001-2004 Technology Plan.   Items that need to be incorporated into the next three-year plan were noted and discussed.  The evaluation is attached to the end of this document.

This plan was written by Jane Thibert and Lynn Vatthauer, Technology Coordinators for ISD 630.  After completion of the final draft, February 19, 2004 , the plan was sent, via e-mail and URL, to the District Technology Committee for review.  It was then revised before submission to the Minnesota State Department of Education February 27th, 2004 .

Technology Committee Members 2004:

Jan Anderson, Principal, JAH Linda Mickelson, 2^nd grade teacher, JAH

Dianne Bjorgan, School Board Member Mike Mueller, 5^th grade teacher, JAH

Leanne Buettner, FACS teacher, LHS Don Pochmara, Music, LHS

Shelly Dale, Business/Computer Teacher, LHS Pat Purath, Media Specialist, ISD 630

Reed Engelstad, School Board Member Michelle Spurgin, Special Ed, JAH

Al Foley, Superindentent, ISD 630 Jane Thibert, Ast. Tech Coordinator, ISD 630

Ken Knutson, Industrial Tech, LHS Lynn Vatthauer, Tech Coordinator, ISD 630

Wes Largis, School Board Member Dr. Michael Verdun, Principal, LHS

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On February 4, 2004 , the Technology Committee of ISD #630 met to review the 2001-2004 Technology Plan.  All committee members were present except for Dianne Bjorgan, Reed Engelstad,  Ken Knutson and Pat Purath.  The meeting began at 7:00 and ended at 8:30 p.m.   Overall the committee feels there has been great progress made toward implementation of the Technology Plan over the past 3 years.  As with all plans, there are a few areas that still need a little work before they are completed.   We went through the document, page by page.  This was a very good activity for us; one that will take place once a year over the next three years, as we were very pleased with the discourse it created and feel it is a good way to keep everyone on track with our district’s visions and goals for technology.  This is a detailed report of our discussions/feelings about implementation of the 2001-2004 District 630 Technology Plan, section by section.  

There remains 2 part-time Technology Coordinators in the district; one assigned to the high school  and one at the elementary school.  The Assistant Technology Coordinator, who is assigned to the elementary school has been given more time during the school day to do technology work since the writing of the current plan.  The superintendent approves compensation for extra time, be it on weekends and/or during the summer, for the Technology Coordinators to get work done when there is an overwhelming amount to do due to a virus, computer orders coming in or something else that comes up unexpectedly.  Since the writing of the current plan the district’s involvement in INFOCON has continued but, due to fact that the grant money has been spent, the district staff members no longer have the extensive training sessions available to them through that source nor is Classroom Connect offered at no charge to the staff.  However, there are many other training opportunities available to the district employees where the cost is covered either by the district’s staff development money or under Title II D.  These were the areas discussed regarding Section I--Leadership Organization and Partnerships.   

Section II—Technology Planning Steering Committee states that the Technology Committee is to meet three times a year to discuss progress of the technology plan.  The committee hadn’t met since the implementation of the plan.  The reason the committee hadn’t met is because it was unclear whose responsibility it was to call the meetings.  Therefore, a formal meeting hadn’t been called.  However, the superintendent, high school principal and two technology coordinators did keep the plan in mind when making purchases and setting up training each year.  It was decided by the committee that we would meet as needed throughout the year, having at least one meeting in the spring of each year, called by the Technology Coordinator, to check the progress of the new Technology Plan and make any revisions necessary to keep up with NCLB and Minnesota State Standards.  A newsgroup format will be followed, whereas the Technology Coordinator e-mails all members of the Technology Committee keeping them informed of what is going on in the district as far as technology is concerned.  

The committee was happy to find that even with the elimination of the Minnesota Graduation Standards the district teachers are still trying in implement technology into their curriculum as much as possible as stated in section III—Overall Organization Mission and Technology Vision Statements to make sure the demands of the new Minnesota State Standards and NCLB are being met and to keep our students competitive in this technology-driven society.  

Under section IV—Needs Assessment to Meet the Technology Vision Statement we noted a few items that were in need of improvement.  We had initially planned to update the three computer labs at the high school on a regular rotation.  However, with the elimination of TARP and a cut in the district’s budget we had to adjust some of our plans.  The first year of the plan we purchased 13 new computers;  10 for the LHS business lab, 2 for the elementary office and 1 for the Athletic Director.  Twenty refurbished Pentium II computers with equipment were purchased from the Computers for Schools program.  The second year, we also used that same program to replace the 11 Pentium I computers in the CAD lab and the 25 PI computers in the elementary lab.  Two modules in the CAD lab and 2 in the Synergistic lab over the two years though we had intended on purchasing 6 total, 2 per year.  This year, the last year of the plan, we purchased 25 refurbished Pentium III computers from the Computers for Schools program to update all the teacher’s computers.  We also purchased 6 new computers for the LHS business lab, 1 for each of the Media Centers for the automation program and 1 for the elementary principal.  The computers that came out of these areas were all shifted to areas where we needed them in the district unless they were no long working.  We, then, took all usable parts off those computers and disposed of the unusable parts.  

Adaptive mice, a touch screen, a laser mouse and adaptive software has been purchased and implemented in the elementary Special Ed. program.  It was decided, at the meeting, that a Special Ed. Teacher from the district would be sent to the annual Assistive Technology workshop held each year to help keep ISD 630 updated on the latest technology and integration ideas.  

Due to budget cuts in the state and our district, there is no longer a Community Education Coordinator in our district.  Therefore, we did not offer any technology courses the 2003-2004 school year though we offered several courses through the Community Ed. Program the first two years of our program.  

We discussed the many opportunities we provide for technology-based staff development.  The Technology Coordinators continue to e-mail staff members about the programs and equipment that are available to them. We offer training when time permits to ensure the staff is able to take advantage of our technology.  This attention to staff development will enable our students to remain competitive and aware of technological opportunities.  

The committee was made aware of the updates the district has purchased to keep our technology secure and up to date.  The district has an anti-virus program installed on it’s server that is updated every day to keep viruses out of our learning environment.  The Sonic Wall is also installed on our server and the list is updated weekly to keep unwanted sites out of our schools.   

The school is still looking into getting an electronic or video security system to ensure the safety of our technology equipment.  

Another area we did very well on is section V—Objectives for the Use of Technology to Address Needs.  It was recommended that a form be created and used by the staff when submitting a technology purchase request.  This form will be given to the technology coordinators so that the best price can be found for the software/hardware.   

Staff Development and training remains an important entity of our current and future technology plan in ISD 630.  Through INFOCON and the NWSC all district employees have many technology-based training opportunities, as was stated in section VI—Measurable Benefits to Stakeholders.   

The committee was happy to hear the districts pending adoption of a K-6 Technology Curriculum that is going to be implemented beginning the 2004-2005 school year.  A 7-12 Technology Curriculum will be developed within the next 3 years when the elementary program reaches the high school.  This was the only addition to section VII—Policy and Procedure Development and Revision.   

When going through section VIII—Technology Inventory, the changes to the district’s ITV system were discussed as ISD 630 has gone digital, as has most of the schools in our area.  Though the Media Centers have not yet completed the steps necessary to implement automation, the software has been purchased and the implementation is nearing reality.  

There were no problems/changes in sections IX—Technology Operations Management Requirements, X—Technology Support Staff and Skills or XI—Educational Development and Training.  

There were 2 mentionable changes in section XII—Budget Development and Planning for Funding.  Due to state and local budget cuts the staff development and training budget in the district was reduced from 2% to 1%.   It was pointed out to the members that this is still a significant amount of money to encourage staff members to attend training.  It was also mentioned there is Title II money available for technology-based staff development.  The district no longer employs a grant writer, due to budget cuts, so it is up to the superintendent and faculty to find and apply for grants.  Unfortunately, time is not always available for these people to fit this lengthy task into their already busy schedule.  

Section XIII—Action Plan has been carried though as much as the budget has been able to allow.  

The area where the district’s technology plan has fallen short the most is probably section XIV—Evaluation and Benefit Analysis.  This section stated that there would be a follow-up to the student and staff self-evaluation of technology surveys that were administered in 2000 through the district’s involvement in INFOCON and that the results would be reported to and discussed by the district Technology Committee at one of their tri-yearly meetings.  Administering and recording results of surveys takes a lot of time and since the Technology Coordinators are already overwhelmed with their other duties, this is an area that has not yet been tackled, other than the TAGLIT survey that was done at the elementary school.  Since the Technology Committee hadn’t met or reviewed this 3-year plan, the need for these surveys had not been discussed.  At the meeting it was decided that these surveys can, indeed, be helpful but they are very time-consuming and no plans were made to administer further technology-related surveys.

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