May22Update_DPS Tech Plan 2021 - 2024

Providing access for students to develop skills as critical thinkers and innovative creators who successfully engage in a complex and increasingly changing digital world is a worthy challenge. Thoughtfully developed curricula, instruction and assessment practices that align to the tenets of the District's mission, vision and core values are foundational in approaching this work. Infographics from the World Economic Forum Report 2020 indicate students' future ready skillsets need to include many STEM-based skills such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, coding, cybersecurity, computer science, robotics, and data analysis and related services. In consideration of these predictions, the District reflects, evaluates, and innovates practices with new courses, programs and curricula on an annual basis to ensure students are prepared for a fast-paced, globally connected digital economy. In the 2020-2021 academic year, the Board of Education approved the addition of courses in App Development, Video Production, and STEM Design and Innovation, a co-curricular science and technology education course. These additions build upon the middle school foundation of Project Lead the Way course offerings in computer science, engineering and media creation. The ISTE Standards guide curricula across courses to align and embed needed skills and in-depth learning experiences to benefit student learning. Google Workspace for Education The District utilizes Google Workspace for Education meaning that the suite of Google Apps, such as Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms and Classroom, serve as common tools for teaching and learning. In accordance with local, State, and Federal Policy, select Google Applications, such as YouTube are restricted for student safety. STEM Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) are inherently integral. The greater the connections across disciplines, the deeper the learning. With great value and investment in interdisciplinary education, the District is committed to increasing STEM literacy for all students. Increased levels of STEM literacy will nurture active, lifelong learners who are prepared to be responsible, global citizens who are able to identify and use the connections shared by these disciplines to shape their lives and communities. Student, Teacher and Administrator Technology Standards In September 2016, the Connecticut Commission of Educational Technology endorsed the International Society of Education (ISTE) standards for students, teachers and administrators. Inclusion of the ISTE Standards through the District's responsive curriculum development and revision process will inform professional development and classroom instruction moving forward. Inclusion of the ISTE coaching standards, computational thinking, and the computer science educator standards will also be incorporated as curricula in these areas develop. Digital Equity The District believes digital equity is an essential part of our technology plan reflected in the District’s support of 1:1 device availability for grades K - 12. Additionally, ensuring broadband access for all students is essential. In a recent survey, 99.7% of the community has WiFi access. WiFi capable hotspots are available for any community member who may require such access.

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