“There can be infinite uses of the computer and of new age technology, but if teachers themselves are not able to bring it into the classroom and make it work, then it fails.” - Nancy Kassebaum

Project Description

Technology is always changing and being updated.  Schools have an obligation to ensure their students the best education possible. Riverdale Kingsbridge Academy will provide the use of technology by implementing SmartBoards in all middle school classrooms. Teachers will be able to differentiate their lessons through the use of technology.  With the use of daily technology, students can be creative, work together and share their work in the classroom.  Students will also learn how to use technology responsibly and use critical thinking when solving problems.

Goals and Objectives

One way to ensure a students’ success in the world is to have students use interactive technology tools throughout their school years.  Through the use of SmartBoards, teachers will be able to enhance both their lessons and student achievement.  Students that are engaged in lessons are less likely to become distracted and focus more on learning.

• Teachers will learn how to incorporate SmartBoards into their daily lessons.
• Team teachers will work together on lesson plans using the SmartBoard.
• Students will learn how to access websites, use different software and deliver Powerpoint presentations.
• Students will use interactive technology to solve problems.
• Student achievement will increase throughout all common core subjects.
• By June 2014, 100% of middle school teachers will be using the SmartBoards with 2 of their classes.

Implementation Plan and Timeline

This technology plan will be implemented throughout the 2013-2014 school year.  By August, all SmartBoards will be delivered and placed in assigned rooms throughout the middle school.  Professional Development will begin on the first conference day of the school year.  All middle school teachers will attend this session.  Professional Development will continue throughout the year either in school or via the internet.  Teachers will meet bi-weekly to share their lesson plans and talk about their experiences with the SmartBoard.  The Technical Specialist will be available throughout the day for both teacher and technology support.  Administration will survey all middle school teachers on the implementation of using the SmartBoard in their classroom.  On-going grant proposals will be written for new technology.    

• May 2013 – Money was received from grant for 10 SmartBoards.
• June 2013 - Purchase of SmartBoards and software license.                         
• July-August 2013 –Delivery of SmartBoards.  Installation of SmartBoards for all middle school teachers on first and second floor.
• School Year – 2013-2014:
  • September 3^rd – Provide Professional Development for all middle school teachers to learn how to use SmartBoards in the classroom. Three different sessions will be available for teachers.  Teachers will attend the session which applies to their level of technology.
  • September 3^rd – Provide Professional Development for the Technical Support person.  He will be trained on how to help and support teachers with technology questions throughout the school year.
  • September – June – Technical Specialist available 4 periods a day to support teachers and help in technology difficulties they might encounter.
  • September 16 – 20^th – Teachers will begin using SmartBoards in at least one of their classes.
  • September – June – Bi-weekly subject meetings will be held.  Teachers will share their interactive lessons and experiences with using the SmartBoard. 
  • September - November-January-March-May - Professional development sessions will be offered to teachers.   These sessions will help to enhance teachers basic to advance technology skills.  Also, teachers will learn how to use and understand the tools of SmartBoards and Apps that can enhance teaching. 
  • May – During a Faculty Conference, hand out a survey to middle school teachers relating to their experience in the classroom with the SmartBoard.
  • June – All middle school teachers will be using SmartBoards with 2 of their classes.
  • Ongoing School Year – Continue to write grants for new technology and additional professional development.

Hardware, Software and Human Skills Inventory

• 10 SmartBoards
• 10 projectors – already in school building
• 10 laptops – already in each middle school classroom
• Smart Notebook software site license
• Smart Notebook
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Computer Technician/Operation Technician – same person
• Assistant Principal of Curriculum
• Middle School Teachers