Election 2011: District 66 Candidates on Technology

Do you think the district’s schools are staying competitive when it comes to technology? What role do you think technology should play in schools?

As my oldest child is only in first grade, I am not completely familiar with the use of technology district wide; however, I have been pleased up to this point. My son has used technology in the classroom to improve both computer literacy and reading readiness, which I believe to be consistent with other schools based on discussions with other parents. I believe the role of technology should be to enhance and enrich the classroom learning experience as both a primary and supplemental learning tool.

Our district has made some valuable investments in the school,s such as with the “smart boards” that allow for full integration of classroom learning via computer and Internet. We also have our students engaged in using computers throughout their school days. In the future and as funds permit, we have to be more forward thinking and consider making an investment in technology that will allow our students to have all of their class notes, homework assignments, grades, supplemental materials, learning goals, etc., in one place so that the students and their parents are fully informed and engaged. Some districts have moved to all of their students having an iPad to accomplish this type of goal. The research clearly shows this is the way of the future. As a board member, the tension there will be how to get to that future while not running a budget deficit. 

I’ve never walked into any of our schools and felt that we were behind from a technology standpoint. In terms of the kids, I believe we have adequate computers, software and classes available to make our kids technologically competitive (funded by both the school and our PTO), which I’d like to see continue. In terms of technology for our teachers, I know that many of our classrooms have smart boards, which I think are a huge benefit. Overall I’ll say that I’d like to see spending in technology continue to ensure our students are as competitive as possible in this area.

I believe our district's schools are very technology competent. Recent installation of the Wi-Fi system in our schools, a much needed installation, brings our district schools at par with the latest Internet access technology now in place. A smart balance is required to have the technology play the right role in our schools. It is not important to always have the latest expensive gadgets in place for education. It is much more important to ensure they will help make our education system become more competitive.