I am a product of the public school system. I am a supporter of public schools. It is very rare that I will vote against a tax increase that’s aimed at improving our public school system.
So I felt a little twinge of pride when I recently read through the draft of the 2010
State of Michigan Educational Technology Plan. The plan is designed to improve the use of technology in the state’s classrooms while at the same time improving the skills of teachers and students. If this is the kind of work that my tax dollars are going to support, then I’ll probably vote for that next tax increase too.
The plan outlines a five-goal approach to achieving its overall goal. Those five goals are focused on:
• Teaching for learning
• Leadership
• Professional learning
• School and community relations
• Data and information management
The architects of the plan, the state’s Educational Technology Advisory Group, has found way or is seeking ways to get a wide range of people involved with the program and ultimately responsible for the success of the plan. Such involvement which will include students, teachers, administrators, state educational leaders, community leaders and the private sector is necessary if we are to begin significantly increase the number of high school and college graduates who can compete on the global stage for jobs in science, engineering, math and technology.
This is a plan that if adopted and successfully implemented can be a foundation for innovation and for helping to stimulate diversity of thought about the Michigan economy.
This is a plan that can help build the confidence of teachers and students and the pride of a community. And it’s one that can make a taxpayer feel good about how her tax dollars are being spent.
Sharon, thank you for personalizing your blog. I enjoyed reading this post. You said, "This is a plan that if adopted and successfully implemented can be a foundation for innovation and for helping to stimulate diversity of thought about the Michigan economy." The key word is "if." Some things take money and determination. I think we have enough money, even in these tough times, but I'm not sure about the determination.
ReplyDeleteI'm suprised at Professor Umpstead's comment. I would have thought that we had more determination than dollars.
ReplyDeleteMaybe it depends on who the "we" is. I would do almost anything to get more technology in our district. The community I live in may not feel the same, however. Unlike yourself, my community does not support tax increases for school districts and I feel that we are far behind many of our peers.
I am optimistic like you, though, and find the proposal impressive and inspiring. I hope Michigan can reach these standards.