Technology
Seattle Public Schools has a master technology
plan that guides the District’s approach to using technology
as a tool to enhance teaching and learning. The plan also guides
the investment in systems that help teachers and administrators
more effectively use data; and more effectively manage the
district’s funds and other resources. A technology component
is included in each capital levy or bond put before voters, which
helps ensure that technology tools and systems are renewed on an
ongoing basis.
The BEX III capital bond includes a total of 22 projects, grouped
into four major categories:
- Instructional tools and trainng to
directly support students and teachers. This series of
projects accounts for more than 50 percent of the total value of
the technology portion of the bond. Includes replacement of
outdated student computers, teacher workstations and other
classroom technology. Provides students with continued access from
home or school to on-line database resources and distance-learning
programs. Also funds training and technical support to help
teachers use technology as a teaching tool.
- Technology to empower families to
support student learning. Includes continued development
of "The Source," a web site for families to provides online
information about student grades, assessments, homework and
attendance. Also provides an internet safety class for students and
a program to provide surplus computers to students who do not have
home computers.
- Improve academic and business
processes, communications and access to data. Includes
projects to improve systems related to special education, bilingual
services, budget development, grant management, work order
(maintenance) management, and fixed assets.
- Continuous improvement of school and
central infrastructure to support district-wide technology
needs. Includes upgrades to network fiber, computers, and
servers; and, replacement of aging telephone systems. Also upgrades
the Instructional Broadcast Center to meet mandatory federal
standards.
