Texas long-range plan for technology

The Texas long-range plan for technology states that "educators must meet high standards and and be well prepared to teach in the classrooms of Texas." While I believe that our educators can and do meet high standards, I do not believe, in regard to technology (both our knowledge of it and the appropriate resources) that we are well prepared. In regard to educator preparation and development, my campus has not advanced past the developing tech stage for more than the last three years, and the large majority of teachers state-wide identify at the developing tech stage as well--and have for a number of years. As budget cuts loom, technology is being hit hard, as all of our technology facilitators' jobs have been cut. These were the people responsible for opening up our worlds and introducing us to possibilities of which we would not otherwise be aware. Nationally, many schools suffer the same realization in that many teachers are digital immigrants trying desperately to reach students who are digital natives. Our schools do not mirror the outside world, the global world, and, in effect, we are not equipping our students with the necessary skills to "survive and thrive" in this global, interactive world. In order for educators to be well prepared, we need training, regular and easy access to resources, and time. These are areas where we are lacking, and lacking at an alarmingly low rate. Unless we take a hard look at our educational system and all that we require, we cannot and will not meet these long-range goals.