The first category of educator preparation and development is professional development experiences. In order for teachers to meet the standards of this category, teachers must have completed professional development in internet use, district information systems, and basic software applications. The next category includes large group professional development that focuses on skills development and basic technology integrations. The capability of educators is the third category of educator preparation and development. The more SBEC technology standards an educator applies with the higher the rating on the STaR Chart scale. Access to professional development is the next category, and it focuses on the number of development hours teachers are getting. The range is from 9 hours to 30 or more. The fifth level consists of the understanding of patterns and use levels. A basic understanding of technology will yield an early tech score, and the more creative and innovative educator will range from advanced to target tech. The final area of educator and preparation development is professional development for online learning.
The Milford ISD campus has made tremendous strides since the low developing tech score of 2007-2008. The campus is currently at a developing tech stage and has been there since the low score was last recorded. The state of Texas has taken steps to improve educator development by providing grants to schools for attending workshops and introducing new curriculum.
More accountability for administrators in small districts will greatly increase educator preparation and development. If there is more local responsibility taken, then perhaps state and national entities could step back and place resources used in this area elsewhere.
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