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Committees & Advisory Groups

Student Technology Think Tank

Purpose: 

  • Research school district models for implementing 1:1-plus (one or more computer/ devices per child) student technology initiative.
  • Read relevant research, news, materials.
  • Evaluate local and regional programs through site visits, meetings with industry leaders, guests and webinars.
  • Review feedback from Bellingham Public Schools stakeholder groups and use it, along with best practices research, to affirm or raise questions regarding implementing this type of technology initiative.
  • Weigh the pros and cons of various start-up models in cost, complexity, grade level coverage and stakeholder impact.
  • Consider the impact on technology levy resources with 1:1-plus models as part of a recommendation to the superintendent.
  • Review a model project plan for a 1:1-plus implementation and consider implications.
  • Recommend potential grade targets and timeline informing technology levy budget considerations for a 1:1-plus project to the superintendent.

Basis for Establishment:

  • The current technology levy expires in 2016 and a renewal of the expiring technology levy will go to voters on the February 2016 ballot.
  • A 1:1 program, how structured and where targeted, will have a significant impact on the technology levy amount and structure.

Decision-Making Process:

  • Research, discuss and evaluate options to prepare a written recommendation to Superintendent Greg Baker by early October.

Plan of Work: 

  • Review timelines and key decision dates.
  • Read, consider, and discuss available data on 1:1-plus programs.
  • Visit and observe regional 1:1-plus programs and leaders.
  • Generate a report informing pilot, budget, and timeline.

Members

  • Elementary Principal Matt Whitten
  • High School Principal James Everett
  • Bellingham High Teacher Paul Clement
  • Wade King Teacher Molly Foote
  • Kulshan Middle School Teacher Tommy Lingbloom
  • Kulshan Middle School Teacher Tara Vaughan
  • Shuksan Middle School Teacher Lynnelle Larson
  • Geneva Elementary School Teacher Jaylani Evans
  • Technology Teacher on Special Assignment Brian Pahl
  • Math Teacher on Special Assignment Chuck Devange
  • Elementary Library Media Specialist Nancy Hudson
  • Sehome High Parent Erin Graham
  • Whatcom Middle School Parent John Farquhar
  • Silver Beach Elementary Parent Amanda Blue
  • Bellingham High Parent Jake Squires
  • Sehome High Student Eric Newcomer
  • Kulshan Middle School Student Leigh Hjelmseth
  • Kulshan Middle School Student Madeline Ellis
  • Technology Alliance Group (TAG) representative Meg Weber
  • Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Simone Sangster
  • Communications Manager Jackie Brawley

Co-Chairs:

  • Executive Director of Technology Kurt Gazow
  • Deputy Superintendent Mike Copland

Consultative Members:

  • Department of Teaching and Learning directors
  • Bellingham Education Association representative
  • Educational Technology Department operations manager John Getchell

Responsibilities:

  • Regular member meeting attendance
  • Respectful and collaborative interactions with group members

Timeline and Meeting Dates:

  • Aug. 17-27: Call for applications.
  • Sept. 3 Minutes – Room 212, 3 – 5 p.m.
  • Sept. 10 Minutes  – Room 212, 3 – 5 p.m.
  • Sept. 17 Minutes – Room 212, 3 – 5 p.m.
  • Sept. 23 Meeting – Full Summary – Board Room 3 – 5 p.m.
  • Sept. 14-21: Review stakeholder input.
  • Sept. 22-Oct. 2: Draft recommendation based on research and input.
  • Sept. 30: AM site and classroom visits at Sammamish HS, PM at Kent School District discussing tech and professional development strategy.
  • Oct. 1: Seminar at Microsoft Executive Briefing Center.
    • NOTE: Group members may attend one or both of the site visits, depending on space availability and may be joined by other district and labor leaders.
  • Oct. 5 Minutes, Board Room, 3 – 5 p.m.
  • Oct 8 Minutes, Board Room, 3 – 4 p.m.
  • Oct 20 Meeting Board Room, 3 – 4 p.m.
  • Oct 23: Finalize and submit recommendation to Superintendent Dr. Baker.

Budget Implications:

  • This initiative will impact the amount of the requested technology levy on the ballot in February 2016.
  • Release time will be provided for staff as needed.