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.