Both Plummer Superintendent Rick Lorenson and Principal Henry Kramer at Southwest Minnesota Christian said their computer offerings require a big commitment from their school boards, administrators and teachers. Most of his teachers taught themselves what they know about the technology, Kramer said, and his own efforts are on top of all his other obligations. I'm the superintendent, principal, physics teacher and technology coordinator, so my 'nerd' time is somewhat limited. Lorenson said his computer costs mean cuts elsewhere. We don't have a licensed secondary art teacher, for example.
Equipment is the other constant challenge.
Whatever the school, technology directors say they feel pressured from all sides to stay competitive. For example, with so many parents accustomed to banking and ordering books online, Rodel said, they're asking him for services such as a Web site where they can check the school calendar and their students' homework assignments. I tell you, there's nothing they haven't thought of. They are our best resource for keeping school moving toward a vision. It is not a private communication.