The Educator Preparation and Development area of the Texas STaR chart I feel is one of the most critical aspects of the Long- Range Plan for Technology 2006-2020.  This area is crucial because it does not matter how great the technology is in the classroom, if teachers are not given the level of training needed to understand how to use the technology, it will be a waste of money.  The Texas Teacher STaR Chart provides teachers with a self-assessment tools to help them identify areas of weaknesses to focus  on to improve their level of instruction in the classroom.  This chart also allows teachers the data needed to make informed decisions regarding technology needs and how best to use resources.  This gives the teacher with opportunities to see areas of their teaching where professional growth may be needed.

Knowing that every student is to be "technology literate" by the end of the 8th grade, makes every teachers job in regards to technology more challenging.  This has also made the use of technology in the classroom increase with many teachers moving from Developing Tech level to Advanced Tech level.  However, there is still the ultimate level to reach of Target Tech, where teachers will design lessons that are project centered for students to be able apply their own way of learning.  In recent years, staff development has been targeted around technology and the opportunities it provides for teachers and students.  Federal and state money have been given to districts to help equip every school with technology that is applicable for the classroom.  Every school is to have broadband internet and students are to instructional opportunities to be able to use the internet.

The business world, state and federal government, and students themselves are pushing teachers to learn more about technology.  It is my opinion that the most significant change in instruction will occur when teachers are given opportunities to learn how to use technology and how to effectively instruct students in how to use it.  Teachers need to be given ample opportunities to practice the new learning and to make it their own.  They just like students need to be given time to work with the technology and with the STaR Chart surveys and results, teachers can see where they need to focus their attentions and where they are compared to the rest of the campus.  This helps the principal then determine where to target the staff development opportunities to meet the needs of his staff.  In meeting those needs, he will be working toward meeting the technological needs of the students as well.