The entire program was designed for teachers. Anyone can take the classes if interested, however the incentive program is only for classroom teachers.

What incentives are there for me to take classes?

We have developed a three-level program that allows teachers to be recognized for different levels of achievement in technology integration. You can read more at the Awards Page.

Why are there "standards for teachers"?

Our standards are based on the ISTE National Standards for educational uses of technology to facilitate school improvement across the district. This initiative includes standards for students, integrating curriculum, technology support, and standards for student assessment and evaluation of technology use. It was developed by a district task force.

Can I "test out" of classes?

No. The Instructional Technology Department believes that professional development takes time, and true integration efforts take practice. Because the classes focus as much on collaboration and process as technology skills and products, we feel it is important to actually attend the classes to get the full benefit of the professional development.

How long are the classes?

Each STEPs class is 35 hours in length with the exception of the first class Project-Based Learning & Technology which is 28 hours in face-to-face instruction. The Instructional Technology Department also offers "Proficiencies" classes which vary in length. You can learn more about them on the Proficiencies Page.

How long does it take to complete the program?

We are anticipating that the average teacher could take all the STEPs classes and complete the entire program in 2 years.

Can I get PDC points for the classes?

Yes, 1 point will be awarded for each contact hour if the class is tied to your SQIS.

Can I get college credit?

Yes, 3 credits will be available for each course. You will need to upload your work to the Blackboard class "STEPs Projects" and apply for credit at the end of a set of classes. Credit is being offered for the completion of the projects according to the rubrics, not for seat time. Payment for the credit would be the responsibility of the employee, not Wichita Public Schools.

How do I enroll in classes?

To enroll in classes, go to My Learning Plan. Your username is your first initial, last name, and last 4 digits of your social security number. Example: jsmith1234. That will also be your password until you change it.

Do the classes need to be taken in any order?

Yes, the classes must be taken in order.

Why Projects and Rubrics?

Performance-based tasks require performance-based assessments including rubrics. Read Why Rubrics: What's All the Hype to learn more.

Will subs be paid for by Instructional Technology?

The Instructional Technology Department will pay for substitute teachers for No Teacher Left Behind if the teacher takes the class during the school day when a substitute is required. If the class if taken before or after the school day, the Instructional Technology Department will pay the teacher $12 an hour (for 3 hours) to take the class. This rules does not apply to any other class.

Are any of the classes offered online?

All of the classes will be available online starting in the fall of 2005. Blackboard will be the learning system used.

Do any of the Intel Teach to the Future classes count?

Though the Intel classes have counted as units in the past, this will no longer be the case after the spring of 2005 as we are switching to courses/units methodology.