Using 21st Century Technology - My Vision for Williams Middle

The start of a new school year is an ideal time to reflect upon what has taken place in the previous year(s) and of course to devise a vision for the new year. This summer, I had the pleasure of participating in an online course, Using Google to become a 21st Century Administrator. As a result, I am more empowered than ever to employ innovative technologies at Williams!

With that being said, I offer the following:

School-wide Technology Goal: Using 21st Century technology, Williams Middle School will reduce the use of paper copies by 50%, thereby saving money and time while eliminating wastes.

Purpose: This goal will allow students to be exposed to 21st Century Technologies that will prepare them for high school, college, the workforce and beyond.

Action Plan:

1. Teachers will use Moodle to complete lessons plans, post assignments, communicate with parents and students and to give additional online resources.
2. Google Calendar will be used to post important dates and reminders. Google Calendar will be accessed by a link on the school website.
3. Google Blogger will be used for school-wide announcements and to give details that are too lengthy for the calendar feature. The blog, Principal's Corner, will be the primary source for this action.
4. Google Docs will be used for teacher, staff and parent communication and collaboration. This tool will also be used (along with Moodle) for vertical teaming by middle school and elementary teachers.
5. School technology leaders will set up a Global Studio to be used for distance learning. Students will use Skype and podcasting as part of this innovative and interactive learning environment.

Time Frame: Implementation will begin immediately with quarterly benchmarks used to monitor progress. All items listed in the Action Plan will be implemented by February 2012.

Side Note - Character education will focus on tolerance and being good digital citizens.

These are lofty goals and actions and they will certainly require collaboration with students, parents and teachers. I'm excited and looking forward to this challenge!