Final Project: Using Google to become a 21st Century Administrator by Steven Tarver

1. What is your personal vision for how Google's web-based tools can help improve collaboration and communication within your particular school community?
My personal vision for Google's web based tools is to see it expand and grow among educators not only in my school but my school district as well.  These applications are so user friendly everyone (including the most novice computer user) that educators can find a way to incorporate them in their classroom activities. 

2. Which Google tools you are most likely to implement and why?
From a professional perspective, I have found the use of blogging interesting, cutting edge, and innovative.  Imagine the dialogue among administrators who have concerns or problems within their building with students, faculty, and parents? Blogging allows administrators to share ideas, discuss what strategies are working, and how to become better school leaders.  Teachers can also use blogging to satisfy the same objectives as administrators.


3. What lessons have you learned from reviewing how other administrators and schools are using Google Calendar, Docs, and Blogger?
I have learned that Google Docs are user friendly even for the novice user.  In my school, the technology department will train faculty members while demonstrating how this application can be used in classes to enhance student learning.  Also, I will encourage faculty members to take advantage of any professional development opportunities (technology related) offered by our district.


4. How does your vision align with the Visionary Leadership standard as put forth in ISTE's National Educational Technology Standards for Administrators.
My vision properly aligns with the standard prescribed by ISTE's of inspiring and facilitating a shared vision among stakeholders.  My vision is focused on student achievement and learning.  This can't be done without collaboration among community stakeholders, parents, other educators, and central office personnel.


Please address the following goals in your action plan
1. What are your goals for integrating Google Tools into your school or personal practice?

• My initial goal would be to implement a school and teacher blog page.
•  My second goal would consist incorporate a student spreadsheet through Google Docs (among homeroom teachers) to monitor student progress 

2.  What steps will you need to take to implement your vision?

• To have the faculty/staff buy into this vision
• The cost involved (if any) in implementing this project
• To ensure all faculty/staff receive adequate training

3.  What key unanswered questions do you have about using Google tools?

• How will it enhance student learning long term

4.  Among school staff, who will be able to help you implement your vision?

• This vision will be implemented through the assistance of the following individuals: the technology coordinator, department heads, and assistant principals.