This is a result of the cost of hardware and software, as well as the need for curriculum changes to integrate the use of technology into subject areas. Instructional staff must also have opportunities to become familiar with new technologies and develop appropriate skills and teaching strategies. However, schools can no longer delay adopting new technologies if students are to be prepared for the 21st Century. In addition, educational institutions will have to utilize the new technologies to improve their effectiveness and efficiency. The Sheboygan Area School District is committed to preparing our students to know and be able to do what is necessary to accomplish the approved and established standards and benchmarks.
Instructional technology plays a vital role in the accomplishment of that commitment.
These documents were presented to the School Board in October of 1983 as a five-year implementation plan for instructional technology. In the fall of 1990 an Instructional Technology Planning Committee was again formed as an offshoot of the Instruction Committee to update and develop a new long-term plan. As a result, in November 1992 the Instructional Technology Committee completed its draft of a five-year plan based on the proposals submitted by departments and grade levels. In 1997, the District began the process of revising its technology plan and hired a consulting group to help in the process. The District's new plan was approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction as a Level I plan in January of 1998.