By now, most readers of my blog will know about the Success Effect, but if you do not, it is the strategic plan centered around learning, talent, and partnerships for BVSD. In July of this past year, our superintendent, Dr. Messinger, published a blog detailing the work of six Priority Action Teams for the implementation of the BVSD Success Effect.
The question has come up, where is the technology goal or initiative in the plan? That is a great question which I will explore in this blog.
I look at technology as a tool to enable components of learning, such as student engagement or collaboration, to be successful. Technology is a means to the end, not the end itself.
With that in mind, the implementation of technology in the learning environment is an expectation embedded within each plan. BVSD also has technology standards and skills embedded in all BVSD curriculum and in Educator Effectiveness standards.
I encourage you to read the BVSD Ed Tech Blog posts detailing how BVSD students are using technology for unique digital learning experiences. This work, along with the ways technology will be utilized to develop the Success Effect, paints a picture of why bridging learning with digital tools is valuable and necessary.
Technology appears in each strategic goal as a tool, outcome or both. For example, in Literacy & Early Learning, there is a task that will determine how to utilize technology to deliver high-leverage strategies in literacy, scaffolds for language development, and opportunities for differentiation. Once the tools are selected, teachers and students will then use these tools for literacy instruction and assessment. 
Another example of how technology is embedded into the BVSD Success Effect is through the priority action team of Educator Growth & Development. This team is evaluating how professional development for BVSD educators can be personalized, differentiated and on-demand.
This will require exploration of digital tools in order to provide personalized professional development. An example could include using video conferencing and online webinar software to provide distance and blended learning opportunities for professional development in order to reach all teachers when they are available. It may also include the use of Schoology for managing discussions and example student products shared by teachers. Technology will be an integral part of the learning experience for our educators.
I believe technology is a valuable tool to enable our students with differentiated experiences to prepare them for the digital world in which they live. Working with my peers and the Superintendent, my team will stay abreast of technology in education and select the tools that are most effective. Transformation is happening with tablets, Chromebooks and more advanced software to help our students and teachers thrive.
What you have just read is in alignment with the vision of the Boulder Valley School District: We develop our children’s greatest abilities and make possible the discovery and pursuit of their dreams which, when fulfilled, will benefit us all. We provide a comprehensive and innovative approach to education and graduate successful, curious, lifelong learners who confidently confront the great challenges of their time.
I believe technology is an essential element of the BVSD educational program to realize this vision and graduate successful, curious, lifelong learners who confront the great challenges of their time.
I’d like to know your view on technology and how it enhances the learning experience. Please chime in below.
Andrew
