Superintendent Dr. Art Cavazos, was selected by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 100 top school leaders from across America to participate in the first-ever National ConnectED Superintendents Summit Wednesday, Nov. 19 at the White House.
Dr. Cavazos is among exemplary local school chiefs who will be recognized for their leadership in helping transition their districts to digital learning. This unique conference will bring together officials from throughout America to share with one other and the Education Department promising approaches to using technology in classes.
“Continuing our mission to transform the teaching and learning that takes place in our classrooms, our district recognizes the importance of providing all of our students and teachers with easily and readily accessible digital resources,” said Superintendent Dr. Art Cavazos. “ I’m honored to be included in this historic discussion as it brings a focus on how we can work together to further transform education on behalf of our students and their pursuit of global achievement.”
The White House summit will be followed by a series of 12-15 regional summits that will focus on the digital progress both made and possible by local school districts. The events will also include the unveiling of digital tools that facilitate incorporation of technology into short-term and long-range education planning.
“It’s an honor for our school district to have Dr. Cavazos represent our community and region during these important discussions focused on transforming the education and resources our students have access to,” said Board President Greg Powers. “We hope with this collaboration, we can further our efforts to create a district culture where technology is brought in to enhance the curriculum that takes place and provide our students with the means for global success.”
To help spotlight the value of technology in schools, the Education Department is sponsoring a Future Ready Initiative aimed at showcasing outstanding school leadership and strategies.
Future Ready superintendents demonstrate effective use of technology in some of the following ways:
- Fostering and leading a culture of collaboration and digital citizenship;
- Transitioning schools and families to high-speed connectivity;
- Empowering educators with professional learning opportunities;
- Accelerating progress toward universal access to quality devices;
- Providing access to quality digital content;
- Creating access, equity, and excellence – particularly in rural, remote, and low-income districts;
- Offering digital tools to students and families to help them prepare for success in college;
- Sharing best practices and mentoring other districts in the transition to digital learning.
In June 2013, President Obama announced the ConnectED Initiative, starting with a goal of connecting 99 percent of students to next-generation connectivity within five years. Model schools and districts across the country are using technology to create personalized learning environments; technology will play an increasingly crucial role in the future.
For more on the work of the Department’s Office of Educational Technology, including resources for students, parents and educators, click here.
