Although the average ratio is promising, there are still many schools with much higher ratios. With the various programs that offer connectivity assistance to schools, we anticipate that number to drop to zero within the next year. Many districts have included a variety of software and online resources in their TLCF projects, as well as plans to develop online resources for their classroom work. Many districts have included professional development activities in their TLCF projects, such as technology integration Summer Academies and ongoing technology training throughout the year. The launching of the new requirements for Professional Development Master Plans has precipitated a fresh look at the infusion of technology in professional development activities.
Technology is indicated as one focus area to include in master plans.
A new teacher certification area for Computer Technology Educator took effect on August 1, 1999. The Certification Task Force was recently convened to develop, by the end of 1999, a new set of certification standards for all teachers. Technology use will be included in these standards as an integral part of what is expected of all future teachers.