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By Amy Thuesen

Director of Technology

Pauline R. Kezer once said, “Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights,” and nothing could be truer in the world of educational technology. While Austin Public Schools provides continuity to all district systems through its four strategic priorities, this fall brings new laptops for 5th and 9th graders, new software and hardware for staff, and improved tools for communication. Each of these changes — guided by the new APS Technology Plan — will help the district move toward its mission of preparing students to make a difference in the world, stretching and growing with the help of technology.

2024 has been a pivotal year for APS Educational Technology. In June, the School Board approved a Technology Plan that will provide three years of guidance for technology use in the district. This new technology plan was the result of a full year of study, conversation, and reflection done by the Technology Advisory Committee – a team of APS staff, alumni, parents, and community partners.

During the 24-25 school year, the Technology Department plans to make strides in meeting the goals of this plan, guided by the Technology Advisory Committee. This year’s priorities include:

• Efficiently and securely managing “people data” by using a new data privacy analytic and key integrations of data warehouses.

• Improving our Cybersecurity resilience through staff training and developing a strategy to improve endpoint management.

• Delivering strong digital literacy support to staff and students, becoming a Common Sense District.

• Providing regular communication to families and community members about technology practices at home and at school.

• Developing hardware and software evaluation tools that prioritize effective learning and fiscal responsibility.

• Securing buildings and infrastructure with industry-leading software and hardware.

What do the above priorities look like in action? Data privacy will be a critical component of all software selected for teaching and learning. Students, staff, and families will learn how to best protect themselves and their information when online. The district’s network, doors, hallways, and outdoor areas will be secured with tools that can be expanded upon over time.

As APS strides into a future where technology and education intertwine more seamlessly than ever before, we welcome partners to join in this work. The Technology Advisory Committee meets on the first Monday of October, December, February, and April, at 3:30 p.m. If you’re an APS staff member, alumnus, parent, or community partner with a vision for educational technology’s potential, please email amy.thuesen@austin.k12.mn.us.