Technology Plan
Technology Integration Services (Tech Plan)
(Draft-Version 1.25 – Last Update 4/24/2023)
The San Lorenzo Unified School District Technology Plan serves as a comprehensive roadmap for effectively integrating technology to support student learning and success. This plan outlines governance, infrastructure, and security measures to ensure the district's safe and responsible use of technology resources. It encompasses all technology-related activities, including procurement, support, review, and update processes, and applies to all staff, students, and stakeholders who use or have access to these resources. This plan comprises specific goals and objectives for technology integration that align with the district's mission and vision. These objectives include providing equitable access to technology and digital resources for all students and staff, supporting student-centered learning and personalized instruction, offering professional development and training for staff, ensuring a robust and reliable technology infrastructure with network security, and complying with state and federal regulations. The development and continuous updating of this plan will involve a comprehensive planning process that includes input from various stakeholders, such as teachers, students, administrators, IT staff, and community members. The district recognizes the transformative power of technology in education and is committed to using it responsibly and ethically. This includes regularly monitoring and updating network security protocols, implementing data privacy and security protocols, and providing cybersecurity training for staff and students.
The San Lorenzo Unified School District Technology Plan serves as a guide for the effective integration of technology within our district. It will be regularly reviewed, monitored, and updated to ensure alignment with current best practices and industry standards, as well as the evolving needs and priorities of the district. Ultimately, the primary goal of this plan is to leverage technology to support student learning and success, aligning with the district's mission of providing high-quality education for all students.
The vision for the San Lorenzo Unified School District Technology Plan is to leverage technology to create an equitable and inclusive learning environment for all students, ultimately fostering compassionate, collaborative, and creative problem-solvers who are resilient, well-informed, and civically engaged advocates for equity and social justice. This plan emphasizes the integration of technology in instruction and assessment, aiming to provide the academic, emotional, and social support necessary to accelerate the achievement of underperforming subgroups while simultaneously increasing overall student performance. To achieve this, the district will invest in a robust and reliable technology infrastructure, which includes a 2:1 student-to-device ratio, access to online resources, and Learning Management Systems (LMS) to facilitate student-centered learning and personalized instruction. The implementation of network security and data privacy protocols will ensure a safe digital environment, while professional development and training for teachers will focus on effectively integrating technology into the curriculum and instruction. Particular emphasis will be placed on ensuring equal access for students with special needs through assistive technology, universal design for learning, and accessibility features.
This plan will be regularly reviewed and updated to align with current best practices, industry standards, and the district's evolving needs and priorities while ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. In summary, the San Lorenzo Unified School District Technology Plan seeks to harness the power of technology to support student learning and success, fostering an equitable and inclusive learning environment for all students.
San Lorenzo Unified School District (SLZUSD) is dedicated to maintaining a cutting-edge IT infrastructure that accommodates the needs of approximately 10,000 users, including students and staff. To guarantee efficient network operations, the district will employ industry-standard solutions and best practices in server infrastructure, network switching, and wireless infrastructure. Given the inherent complexity and technical nature of the Network Operations supporting a substantial number of users and sites, the district's IT team collaborates closely with experts and engineers to ensure continuous improvement in network operations.
For instance:
Regarding server infrastructure, SLZUSD will implement high-availability solutions such as redundant power supplies, network connections, load balancing and failover mechanisms, and server virtualization technology. Regular maintenance and updates, including security patches, software updates, and routine backups, will be scheduled and monitored to ensure optimal functioning and compliance with relevant laws and regulations for data privacy and disaster recovery. The district will also establish a comprehensive disaster recovery plan and adopt a cost-effective, scalable cloud solution.
For network switch infrastructure, SLZUSD will perform a comprehensive assessment of the current network, pinpoint potential bottlenecks or areas for improvement, and choose network switches that adhere to industry standards for reliability and performance. Advanced features like Quality of Service (QoS) and Power over Ethernet (PoE) will be implemented to prioritize critical network traffic and streamline network infrastructure. Regular maintenance and updates, including firmware updates, security patches, and software upgrades, will be scheduled and monitored to ensure optimal functioning. The district will continuously monitor the performance and security of the network, making necessary adjustments to ensure that the network infrastructure remains reliable, efficient, and capable of meeting the organization's current and future needs while maintaining a high level of security and performance.
In terms of wireless infrastructure, SLZUSD will conduct a wireless site survey, identify coverage and capacity requirements, determine optimal access point locations, and select access points that support the latest standards and security protocols. Compliance with laws and regulations related to data privacy and security will be ensured. Regular maintenance and updates, including firmware updates, security patches, and software upgrades, will be scheduled and monitored to maintain optimal functioning. The district will also implement robust security measures such as firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection/prevention systems, and carry out regular security assessments and penetration testing to safeguard data and resources.
SLZUSD is committed to upholding its IT infrastructure to industry standards through routine software and firmware updates, monitoring network performance and capacity, and regularly testing disaster recovery procedures. To guarantee data and resource security, the district will apply industry-standard security protocols and comply with all relevant laws and regulations related to data privacy and security. Additionally, the district will upgrade its telecommunications infrastructure to enhance reliability, VOIP telephone service, and internet bandwidth with QoS mechanisms, redundant network paths, and load-balancing solutions to increase resilience and availability.
The San Lorenzo Unified School District (SLZUSD) Technology Integration department is dedicated to continually exploring ways to enhance the use of technology for both students and staff to fulfill their needs. The overarching goal is to promote equity and harness the power of technology to level the playing field for all users. The district aims to foster teaching and learning by implementing digital tools and content that support essential digital literacy skills. SLZUSD will prioritize these skills based on their relevance to the curriculum and objectives, research and select digital tools and content that bolster them, and incorporate them into the classroom, ensuring support for all student subgroups, including English language learners and students with disabilities. Furthermore, the district will offer technology software tools and educational resources that align with the curriculum and objectives, and utilize learning technologies as cognitive tools to advance student learning and prepare them for college. Teachers will receive professional development on effectively using these tools. The implementation of these tools and resources will be continuously monitored, with input from teachers and students used to make adjustments and enhancements as needed. The district will review and align the standards with the ISTE standards for students, prioritizing them based on their relevance to the curriculum. Digital tools and content supporting the standards will be researched, implemented in the classroom, and foster skills such as digital citizenship, online research, digital communication, and digital creativity. Teachers will be offered professional development opportunities to integrate digital literacy skills into instruction and will be supported in devising lesson plans that incorporate these skills. A tailored implementation strategy for digital literacy skills and content standards at each grade level will be developed, facilitating the integration of digital tools and content into the curriculum. The district's standards will align with the appropriate grade level standards, and a customized plan will be created for each grade. Digital tools and content will be researched and selected to support these standards and implemented in the classroom to address each grade level's unique needs. Teachers will receive professional development and coaching on integrating these tools and content into their instruction, and lesson plans and activities will be designed to align with the standards for each grade level. TIS will conduct regular monitoring and evaluation to gather feedback from teachers and students, making adjustments and improvements as needed to ensure the effectiveness of the implementation.
This plan will ensure that students are prepared for the digital age with the necessary skills for success. The district will align technology software tools and educational resources with the curriculum standards and provide support for all student subgroups, including English language learners and students with disabilities. The plan includes identifying specific technology needs, implementing the tools and resources in the classroom, providing professional development for teachers, monitoring and evaluating the implementation, and regularly assessing and updating the tools and resources to ensure they meet all users' needs. The district will also ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations related to data privacy and security. Through continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment of digital tools and content implementation, SLZUSD aims to enhance equity and level the playing field for all users, ensuring their success.
The Technology Integration department at the San Lorenzo Unified School District understands that professional development is a vital component of technology integration as technology continues to evolve and become more integrated into education. This professional development program aims to equip teachers and staff with the necessary skills to effectively use and incorporate technology into instruction, ultimately resulting in improved student learning outcomes. The program will align with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards and incorporate adult learning theories such as Andragogy and Self-Directed Learning. Offerings will encompass workshops and training sessions on specific technology tools and their integration into instruction, online resources, self-paced learning opportunities, coaching and mentoring, and opportunities for teachers and staff to share their successes and challenges with technology integration. TIS, in collaboration with Ed Services, will implement the program by assessing the current technology skills and needs of teachers and staff, devising a customized professional development plan, scheduling workshops and training sessions, providing ongoing support and follow-up through coaching and mentoring, and evaluating effectiveness through surveys, observations, and student achievement data. To ensure sustainability, the program will regularly assess and update the professional development plan, offer ongoing opportunities for professional growth, encourage and support the sharing of technology integration practices among teachers and staff, and provide necessary resources such as reliable internet connectivity, devices, software, and hardware.
By providing teachers and staff with the necessary skills and support to integrate technology effectively into instruction, the district will strive to improve student learning outcomes and keep pace with the rapidly evolving technology landscape. The professional development program will be continuously evaluated and adjusted to ensure it meets the needs of teachers and staff and aligns with the latest technology trends and best practices. The district will also ensure that teachers and staff have the necessary access to technology resources and support to implement what they have learned during professional development. Ultimately, this professional development program aims to empower teachers and staff with the necessary skills and support to effectively integrate technology into instruction, leading to improved student learning outcomes.
The Technology Integration department at the San Lorenzo Unified School District recognizes the significance of student-centered learning and the role that technology can play in making learning more engaging and enjoyable. The department is committed to collaborating with teachers to implement research-based strategies based on well-known frameworks such as SAMR or TPACK to effectively integrate technology into instruction. A key aspect of this plan is implementing a learning management system (LMS) to support student-centered learning. The district has selected Canvas, a feature-rich system compatible with many of our existing technologies. The goal of Canvas is to provide teachers with a centralized platform for sharing resources, communicating with students and parents, and tracking student progress. Additionally, students will have access to digital resources, assignments, and assessments, which will enhance communication among educational stakeholders and create an inclusive learning environment. To ensure the successful implementation of Canvas, the district will offer professional development for teachers on using the platform, including instruction on creating and managing course content, communicating with students and parents, and utilizing Canvas's analytics and tracking features. TIS will adopt a phased rollout approach to implement Canvas across the district, with a team responsible for deploying and maintaining the system. TIS will provide access information to Canvas for students and parents through the district's website. TIS will supply training and resources to ensure accessibility for all students and parents, including English language learners and students with disabilities. The implementation of Canvas will be continuously monitored and evaluated, with feedback from teachers, students, and parents used to enhance the system. TIS will devise a plan for sustainability to maintain and upgrade Canvas, ensure it is up to date with the latest features and functions, and provide ongoing professional development for teachers and staff. The district will also allocate a budget for maintaining and upgrading Canvas to ensure long-term sustainability. The district's goal is to empower teachers and students with the tools they need to make learning more enjoyable, engaging, and effective.
The San Lorenzo Unified School District prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, and digital citizenship is a vital aspect of this commitment. Our technology plan incorporates specific measures to educate and promote responsible digital behavior among students and staff.
The district will deliver regular instruction on online safety and responsible digital citizenship, addressing topics such as cyberbullying, protecting student privacy, and appropriate online behavior. We will also establish policies and procedures to address issues like cyberbullying, online privacy, and plagiarism, ensuring compliance with relevant state and federal regulations, including California Data Privacy laws, the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). To equip students and staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely, the district will provide ongoing professional development for teachers and staff on online safety and responsible digital citizenship. This will include opportunities for teachers to learn about the latest research and best practices and integrate instruction on the topic across all grade levels. Additionally, the district will offer support and accommodations for English language learners and students with disabilities and will develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
The district will also assess and update resources and instruction regularly to ensure effectiveness and compliance with regulations and will allocate a budget for maintaining and upgrading resources. Feedback from teachers, students, and parents will be continuously collected to refine instruction and policies, ensuring that the district meets the evolving needs of its community.
The San Lorenzo Unified School District (SLZUSD) technology plan places a strong emphasis on continuous improvement through regular evaluation and feedback. To ensure the technology plan effectively supports student learning and remains relevant, the district will conduct routine reviews and assessments based on a predetermined schedule. The review process may involve analyzing student achievement data, engagement data, and feedback from students, teachers, and parents. Additionally, input and feedback will be gathered from all stakeholders, including students, teachers, parents, and district administration, and analyzed to identify areas for improvement and enhancement. To stay informed about new and emerging education and technology trends and best practices, the district will research and benchmark the technology plan against similar plans and best practices from other districts and schools. Based on the review and assessment results, the district will develop a comprehensive implementation plan for the continuous improvement process, including timelines and responsibilities. The district will utilize data and feedback to make ongoing improvements to the technology plan.
This continuous improvement process will ensure that the district's technology plan aligns with current best practices and industry standards, as well as the changing needs and priorities of the district. Ultimately, this will enable the plan to effectively support student learning and success.
The San Lorenzo Unified School District Technology Integration Department recognizes the significance of a cost-effective and efficient technology procurement process. To accomplish this, the department will carry out a comprehensive technology needs assessment, allocate a budget for technology procurement, and create and distribute a Request for Proposal (RFP) to reputable vendors with a proven track record. The department will evaluate and select vendors based on established criteria such as cost, functionality, scalability, ease of use, and vendor reputation. Fair and reasonable contracts will be negotiated with the chosen vendors, and the department will coordinate the seamless integration of new technology with the existing infrastructure. Additionally, the department will establish a maintenance plan for newly acquired technology, consistently monitor usage, gather feedback from all stakeholders, and periodically evaluate and replenish technology as needed. To maximize cost savings, the department will also utilize programs such as E-Rate and piggyback on pre-negotiated consortium pricing. Throughout the procurement process, the district will collaborate closely with the IT staff and legal team to ensure that the procured technology meets its needs, complies with all relevant laws and regulations, and is supported by its existing infrastructure.
The department will regularly review and update the procurement plan to adapt to the changing needs of the school district and any changes in laws, regulations, technology, and vendor performance. This approach will help ensure that the district continues to benefit from the most
effective technology solutions while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
The San Lorenzo Unified School District (SLZUSD) is committed to providing students with 24/7 access to technology and web-based software through the implementation of a 2:1 Chromebook program. This plan entails supplying each student with two Chromebook devices: one designated for classroom use and one for home use. The objective is to guarantee students have access to the necessary resources for success in the digital age. To achieve this, the district will carry out a comprehensive technology needs assessment to pinpoint specific requirements regarding student access to technology and web-based software. A budget for implementing the student Chromebook program will be allocated, and vendors will be sought and evaluated to supply the devices. The district will also collaborate with the vendor to ensure seamless integration with existing infrastructure, establish a process for students to check out the devices from school and take them home, and develop a maintenance plan for the devices. Usage and feedback will be monitored, and the district will regularly evaluate the program to ensure it meets its goals.
Furthermore, the district will implement monitoring, filtering, and security measures to safeguard students and staff from cyber threats. A comprehensive digital literacy program will be devised and executed, accompanied by ongoing technical and pedagogical support. The plan will also be routinely reviewed and updated to ensure compliance with laws and regulations and alignment with district policies and procedures.
The San Lorenzo Unified School District aims to guarantee that all staff members have access to the necessary technology and resources to carry out their jobs effectively and efficiently. This includes providing staff members with functional laptops, enhancing productivity and efficiency by allowing them to access and work on documents, communicate with colleagues, and complete other job-related tasks from any location. Additionally, laptops will facilitate remote work and flexible schedules, particularly during emergencies or inclement weather. To accomplish this goal, the district will conduct a comprehensive technology needs assessment to identify staff members' specific requirements and allocate a budget for implementing the staff laptop program. The district will procure and evaluate laptops from vendors, collaborate with the vendor to ensure seamless integration with existing infrastructure, establish a maintenance plan for the devices, monitor usage, gather feedback, and regularly evaluate the program.
Moreover, the district will implement monitoring, filtering, and security measures to safeguard staff members and students from cyber threats and provide ongoing technical and pedagogical support to ensure that staff members can effectively and efficiently use laptops. The district will also consistently review and update the plan to ensure compliance with laws and regulations and alignment with district policies and procedures.
An Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) for staff and students is essential for various reasons. Firstly, it aids in safeguarding the school district's network and information from cyber threats by establishing clear guidelines for the acceptable use of technology. Additionally, it aligns technology usage with the school district's educational objectives, fostering digital citizenship and responsible, ethical online behavior. Furthermore, it helps protect the school district's reputation by ensuring that staff and students refrain from posting inappropriate or harmful content online. An AUP also assists in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, such as those related to student privacy and copyright, while providing a framework for utilizing the district's technology resources, including web publishing and social media.
Moreover, an AUP facilitates transparency between the school district and its community by explicitly outlining staff and students' responsibilities and expectations regarding technology usage, web publishing, and social media. It also promotes professionalism among staff members and contributes to student safety by offering guidance on using social media, such as how to protect personal information and report unsuitable behavior. Overall, an AUP for staff and students that encompasses guidelines for web publishing and social media is crucial for protecting the school district's network and information, promoting digital citizenship, safeguarding the school district's reputation, ensuring legal compliance, transparency, professionalism, and maintaining student safety.
