Paula Pradines


Name: Paula Pradines
Title: Information Specialist
Affiliation:

County: Allegheny
District: South Fayette Township School Dist
School: South Fayette Elem, Middle, & H.S.
Address:
2250 Old Oakdale Road

McDonald 15057
Phone: 221-4542 x412
FAX: 693-2883

E-mail: Pradines@SFH1.SF.K12.PA.US

ACTIVITIES:
The District has wired the elementary, secondary, and central administration buildings. Additionally, they have been connected by fiber. Upgrades in the connectivity need to occur to accommodate a software management program.

BARRIERS:
We have been progressive. A concern is the lack of current knowledge to do what is right for now and the future.

GOALS:
1. Complete networking of all buildings 2. Complete installation and networking of elementary and secondary labs and teacher stations in every classroom. 3. Begin individual classroom installation of computer hardware and software for students (5 in each room).

INFORMATION NEEDED:
Educational value of the Internet
How students, teachers and administrators can gain access to the network
Funding sources

COLLABORATIONS:
Would like to be part of a consortium

EXPERTISE:

SUPPORT:
We have trained a former custodian/maintenance worker as a Network Systems Administrator. Additional support in this area is *very* much needed to install the hardware and connect. Also staff training is critical. A teacher will serve in this role for a pilot one year program.

SUSTAINABILITY:
Set-aside in operating budget
Periodic bond issues
Grants and donations

SCOPE:
classrooms

NETWORKING SUPPORTS REFORM:
Yes

How technology assists reform:
Enhances community involvement
Allows improvement in teaching strategies
Brings additional resources into the classroom
Increases the relevance of student learning
Reduces isolation of the school and classroom

COMMENTS:
We are anxious to hear how this can be beneficial to our District. (We would like to be a member of a networking consortium if it is meaningful to us) (We have excellent individuals for staff and technical support but always need more.)

EXPECT TO ATTEND:
Yes