Libraries and Educational Technology programs comprise
vital services that support curriculum and instruction
in the Windsor Public Schools.
Our
K-12 school library media program provides direct
instruction in information skills while also supporting
the entire curriculum through the extensive use of
resource-based learning. Elementary and secondary
schools have full-time library media specialists. We are
proud of our attractive facilities and diverse
collections. Each library is fully automated (both
circulation and catalog), has direct connections to the
Internet from multiple computers, and houses a full
range of other technologies.
Our
K-12 technology support team provides both instructional
and technical services. Hardware and software is
selected, installed, and used in ways that meet the
goals and objectives outlined in the district's K-12
technology plan. Technology initiatives over the past
few years have increased the equipment available in
classrooms, libraries, and labs while also connecting
computers to networks. For example, classrooms are wired
and have computers that can connect directly to the
Internet. Teachers are provided with email accounts for
themselves and for student projects. All students and
staff members also have access to network folders.
There is a K-12 library curriculum
with specific performance standards for students.
Emphasis is on information literacy as a critical set of
skills for citizens of the 21st century. The
district has also adopted the new state technology
competencies for students. The district believes in the
integration of information and technology skills within
the curriculum. Several curriculum projects which
include the integration of technology and information
competencies are currently taking place.
Professional development is a major area of focus that
is implemented through both formal training programs and
continued support of teachers as they integrate
technology with the curriculum. The district runs a
regular series of after school workshops and offers a
wide range of training opportunities each summer.
Windsor staff also receive training at workshops offered
by the Capitol Region Education Conference (CREC) and
other providers.
Technology planning takes place on an ongoing basis. The
first district technology plan was written and adopted
by the Board of Education in 1992. Since then, it has
been revised annually by a Technology Task Force who
meets on a monthly basis. The task force has members
from staff, parents, and the community.
Additional technology
links:
The
Library Media and Technology Departments have compiled a
recommended list of educational portals and directories
on the Internet. These portals and directories provide
extremely useful guides to other websites that are
appropriate for young people and for educational
purposes. These resources are frequently incorporated as
part of our professional development workshops. The
annotated list is provided here so that staff, students,
and parents can access them at any time.
Click here to access Recommended Portals and Directories.
In June 2007, the
Curriculum Council officially adopted the newly
revised framework for information and technology
skills. It is based on state and national standards.
We are now working to integrate these skills within
all curriculum areas.
Click here to access.
For more information, please
contact Rosemary Morante, K-12 Curriculum Leader for
Libraries and Educational Technology, at 687-2020, ext.
339 or through email at
rmorante@windsorct.org.
