June/July 2006
EdTech K-12 June/July 2006 The focus of the June/July issue of EdTech magazine is how administrators and teachers are reaching beyond their schools' borders to communicate electronically with students and their parents. Online portals enable parents to stay involved in their children's education, and wireless technology is helping rural schools stay connected. Other articles cover biometric technology in schools, high-tech security screening systems, student management systems, the role of the principal in implementing technology, integrating technology into lesson plans and online assessment.


From the Editor
A Parent's Perspective
Delve into EdTech’s articles to find out how a growing number of schools are using technology to keep students safe and engage parents in the educational process.
 
Report Card
Wireless access in public schools is increasing, although it's still fairly low, and schools are using more security measures to protect students from violence.
 
Column I
A Computer for Every Student: More Than a Pipe Dream
Despite funding woes, an Ohio school district launched a successful one-to-one notebook PC program.
 
Column II
Reading the Signs: Can We Compete in a Flat World?
In today’s connected world, countries that don’t teach kids to be tech-savvy risk falling behind.
 
Applying Tech
Stop Rekeying Your Data!
Achieving a seamless exchange of data between various applications is certainly not easy. However, good planning and careful software selection will reduce keying time and improve reporting.
 
Tech Trends
Born to Hack
Some students seem genetically programmed to hack. Here’s how to keep your systems secure.
 
How To
Fight Your Techie Urges
Need advice about picking your new technology tools?
 
Best Practices
Get the Principal On Board for a New Role - Technology Leader
A principal must be an instructional leader and a technology leader.
 
Tinfoil Star
Serious About Security
A Florida school district uses a high-tech screening system to protect students from sexual predators.
 
Tech Response
Do Your Homework!
A new student management system is an important investment, so choose wisely.
 
Power to the Parents
Parents are flocking to school Web portals to keep up to date and involved in their children’s class assignments, homework, grades and more.
 
Compelling Stories
Anecdotal stories about student successes can be very persuasive in obtaining technology funding. Learn how to tell your stories effectively.
 
Connected in the Country
Despite their remote locations, some rural schools have come up with enterprising ways to get wireless connectivity.
 
Ireland's Digital Woes
The Emerald Isle has a booming economy. So why is its educational system lacking in technology tools?
 
Biometrics Goes to School
Biometrics can help boost security, but many schools are finding other handy uses for this technology, from taking attendance to speeding up cafeteria lines.
 
Administrative Assistance I
Assessment: Better Assessment = Better Instruction
A Las Vegas school district uses online assessment to compare students to state standards.
 
Administrative Assistance II
Insights: A Model for Success
Six simple steps can help teachers integrate technology into their lesson plans.
 
Administrative Assistance III
Case Study: Drive or Be Driven
IT leaders at a Texas school district are steering technology strategy in a better direction.
 
Professional Edge
Excel — It's Easier Than You Think
These features can help you create spreadsheets more efficiently.