Summary and Reflection on Irving I.S.D.’s Technology Plan

Irving I.S.D. has a comprehensive technology plan that is centered on learner success.  The technology plan is written with the following goals in place: 

• Infuse higher level thinking with technology and quality instruction to ensure engaging learning experiences for all teachers and students.
• Support assessment and planning through the use of technology.
• Educate all students and teachers in responsible technology use.
•  Ensure educator professional development is on‐going, high quality, based on the National Educational 
• Technology Standards (NETS), and increasing in rigor so that student learning and 21st century skills are increased.
• Ensure 100% administrative participation in appropriate, current and new software programs. 
• Provide leadership to leverage technology for the improvement of teaching and learning in every classroom daily.  
• Ensure a stable and robust infrastructure for technology use.

Effective implementation of the plan relies on the following four components: Integration of Technology into Teaching and Learning, Professional Development, Administrative and Support Services and Infrastructure for Technology.

Irving I.S.D. has a large technology budget equating to $1,346.02 per student.  The budget, which supports their long term goals, is written to support each of its goals.  The largest portion of the budget is proportioned towards the goal of achieving a 1:1 student to computer ration.

Goal success is to be measured by strictly defined evidence as identified in each objective.  This evidence coordinates to a timeframe to ensure that goals are being strived toward and met.  Some objectives are assessed at short intervals while others are assessed long-term.

Irving I.S.D.’s current technology plan was drafted utilizing a needs assessment from teacher/student surveys, a staff development needs assessment survey, interviews and STaR Chart analysis.   Regular assessment of the plan’s objectives is made by walkthroughs and metrics to determine future growth areas.  This includes hardware, software and infrastructure services.

Professional development is the responsibility of Content Coordinators, the Director of Staff Development, the Director of Instructional Technology and the Technology Coordinators.  Irving has been improving its access to professional development activities by utilizing a 24/7 online development program.  This allows staff to acquire new knowledge at their own convenience while offering a wide range of opportunities.