Other survey findings included:

 

·         27.8 percent said they have classroom technology that is not being utilized. Reasons cited were “broken or missing pieces” (54.7 percent); lack of training (24 percent); and a shortage of supplies (23.7 percent).

·         30 percent rated the district's current technology training as "ineffective," in spite of the fact that more than 60 percent classify technology training as "very important."

·         64 percent said there should be a "standard classroom" design, where all teachers across the district by grade level would have access to the same technology and curriculum delivery systems.

·         Current funding is inadequate for consumable items related to classroom technology (i.e., printer toner, bulbs for interactive whiteboards, etc.), with nearly 60 percent of teachers and principals saying materials are "scarce." 64 percent said they often pay out of their own pocket for these items due to budgetary constraints.

·         58.7 percent said it's important that students have access to "virtual" instruction.

·         The current quality of technical support received an average rating of 2.91 on a 5-point scale, which is slightly below an "acceptable" rating.

 

“In the 21st century classroom, student achievement is inextricably tied to technology and our children's ability to successfully navigate in a digital world," said Dr. Keith Ballard, superintendent. "I have long suspected that there are growing disparities in the availability of technology resources at TPS when compared with neighboring school districts. Our students will pay a heavy price if we don't do something to catch up. With the right tools, I believe our teachers can leverage classroom technology to improve student performance and substantially improve achievement. That is why the TPS board has acted quickly and responsibly to appoint a committee to explore the possibility of moving forward with a technology bond initiative."

 

In 2010, Tulsa voters overwhelmingly approved a $354 million bond package for the school district, with most of the money being spent on facility renovations, repairs and heating and air conditioning. The district has spent approximately half of the $354 million bond that was passed in 2010, with $172 million earmarked for facility, classroom, library and transportation projects. Tulsa Public Schools currently has $89,375,115.71 in additional bonding capacity available.

 

“Bonds, by their very nature, are restrictive in how they can be spent,” said Bob LaBass, director of bond projects and energy management. “School districts are limited to spending dollars only in the categories in which they were voted on and approved. The Technology Bond Development Committee is working to determine whether or not they will recommend to the TPS board that we proceed with a 2013 bond initiative related to technology. There are some dollars from the 2010 bond that could be applied toward technology. We have not yet determined a dollar amount should we choose to proceed with a 2013 bond.”

 

A final recommendation by the bond development committee is expected sometime in February.