RE: QUESTION: State Role - Technology

Technology is a necessary and essential tool for education in the 21st century. Even though not specifically mentioned throughout our discussions, I believe it is a universal assumption that every student must have access to the internet in his/her classroom and that technology must be integrated into all aspects of instruction.Selection of classroom materials must necessarily include software and laser disks and other technology that enhances student learning.  We are in the information age where accessing information is essential to learning. Student success is dependent upon  acquiring the skills that enable him/her to learn how to learn.

A cross-cutting theme of all the working groups in the Masterplan is the notion of an "adaquate funding model" . In order to increase our competitiveness in the world marketplace our citizens must have access and knowlege of technology. This will be a big money item for our schools.

When creating a new funding model for 21st century students, the state must plan and include technology as  part of its base revenue limit for each student.  I have introduced a bill this year dealing with that "adequate funding model".