Mr. Greg Haar, Technology Coordinator
414-525-8484
ghaar@whitnall.com

District Technology Plan (2006-2009)


Technology and Media Vision, Mission & Beliefs
Our Vision
To create a safe and interactive technological learning environment that will enable our students to meet the challenges of the future.

Our Mission
To develop the structures and capacity to transform learning for all students through instruction that:
fosters higher-order thinking.
- models learning through adaptable use of multiple technologies and media in global environments.
- teaches students to be self-motivated and adaptable learners of new technology.
- coaches staff and community to extend their own technological skills and knowledge-base through multiple
venues for improved instruction and support.

Our Beliefs
We Believe...
- students of the millennial generation engage in learning and utilize technology differently than previous generations.
- we must help students meet the challenges of the unknown technological future.
- we are preparing students for a world that we cannot even imagine.
- we have an obligation to provide equal access and develop ethical use of technological tools and media.
- we must continually investigate the impact and use of technology as a means to connect the Whitnall community to the global society.
- today's technology is community-based, providing processes and venues for global learning and communication.

Overview
Today's millennial generation of students are faced with a future in a society that will be inter-connected and progressing in every imaginable (and unimaginable) way. At the root of modern-day progress are rapid technological advances that present discomfort and uncertainty - but, most importantly, they present opportunity. The technological uncertainties of three years ago, when the Whitnall School District last implemented a technology plan, have become the realities of today. We are faced with a growing gap between the students - digital natives - and the educators - digital immigrants. The challenge, therefore, is to provide a systematic process to deliver the modern literacy skills necessary to compete in today's technology-dependant society.

The Whitnall School District's Information and Technology Plan outlines strategic processes and goals to address these critical needs in technology. These goals relate directly to the District's Continuous Plan document. The continuous plan assures the community that a quality educational program with opportunities for each student is in place and reviewed annually. The plan is divided into specific goal areas for ongoing improvement. Using an ongoing improvement model means that the District is continually assessing each goal area to determine what needs to be improved and what needs to be enhanced. Yearly goals are developed in conjunction with the various standing goals. The Continuous Improvement Plan's standing goals are outlined below for reference.

Curriculum Ensuring Success For All
Provide a quality curricular educational program in a safe and secure learning environment allowing students to achieve at the highest level appropriate to their unique needs and abilities so students are prepared to succeed now and in the future.

Students Rights & Responsibilities
Implement a philosophy and code of conduct to ensure mutual respect and personal responsibility for all student levels and abilities.

Communication
Develop ongoing District communication to enhance the partnership between home, the schools, and the community in order to best serve the needs of all our students.

Staff Development
Employ qualified and effective staff that will maintain and enhance their development as educators through ongoing staff development and outside coursework assuring proper implementation of the District Mission.

Facilities
Implement a plan to assure safe, clean, and well-maintained facilities that meet the needs of the District Mission.

Fiscal
Implement an ongoing fiscally responsible budgetary process that helps the District set priorities in all areas of District Operation in order to maintain and enhance the quality of the District as a whole.

Technology Department Staffing
The Whitnall School District employs experienced and well-qualified Information Technology Specialists to manage any and all technology-related issues arising from the district network, desktop computers, peripherals, software, online services, voice systems, website, servers, and helpdesk. The technology department includes a Technology Coordinator, a District Network Consultant, and two Desktop Technicians, Mr. Chris Comp and Mr. Mike Sroka (414-525-8460).

Help Desk: helpdesk@whitnall.com
Webmaster: webmaster@whitnall.com