Grant Development

Computer Lab Funding Request
Niagara Charter School
Niagara Charter School
2077 Lockport Road
Niagara Falls, New York 14304
March 4, 2013
Beth Kinsman Gosch
Executive Director
Western New York Foundation
11 Summer Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
Phone: 716-839-4225 Fax: 716-883-1107
Dear Ms. Kinsman Gosch,
The Technology Committee at Niagara Charter School is pleased to submit this proposal for
grant funding from the Western New York Foundation. Niagara Charter School has been serving
the educational needs of children in the Niagara Falls region for the past six years and is seeking
$29,472.33 in funding to support the creation of a new computer lab. By providing the needed
hardware and software technologies to our students we can help ensure their future success by
giving them the tools required from higher education and employers. Currently our students are
at a disadvantage in that they do not have an adequate space for using computer technologies.
This situation will unfairly penalize them on next year’s state mandated computer assessments,
not allow them to practice the need skills required by colleges and future employers, or access
the wealth of computer assisted educational tools.
Our schools mission is dedicated to fostering the unique potential of each child by providing a
rigorous academic program using the Expeditionary Learning approach designed to empower
students as lifelong learners, resourceful and practical thinkers, active citizens, and future
leaders. We opened our doors in the fall of 2006 and have been dedicated to helping kindergarten
to sixth grade students from the low socio-economic neighborhoods of Niagara Falls, New York.
Our organization is tax-exempt 501c3 and has shown a sustained commitment to the children of
Western New York.
Currently our students are at-risk of failing to meet the academic goals set forth by our charter.
They have very limited technological skills and are unable to meet many of the bench mark
technology requirements set forth by the International Society for Technology in Education
Standards (ISTE) for their age levels. This disadvantage is becoming further exacerbated by the
disparity of available technologies to assist in their education. Without this computer lab,
students cannot practice the needed skills or learn from valuable multimedia educational
resources the lab will be able to provide.
To help support this project Niagara Charter School has already established an arrangement for
donated computers from the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. Through this partnership the
school will be able to reduce the cost of the project by approximately $20,000. While this is a
great help to our agency it does not allow us to meet the final cost of the project. If allowed to
make a full proposal, Niagara Charter School would be seeking $29,472.33 from the foundation
to support the acquisition of additional hardware.
We appreciate your consideration of our proposal and look forward to speaking with you
regarding this request. For more information, please feel free to contact me at 718-297-4520.
Sincerely,
Ehren Reynolds
Technology Specialist
Cover Letter
Beth Kinsman Gosch
Executive Director
Western New York Foundation
11 Summer Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
Applicant:
Niagara Charter School
2077 Lockport Road
Niagara Falls, New York 14304
Email: [email protected]
March 3, 2013
Dear Ms. Kinsman Gosch,
I am attaching a proposal for funding on the behalf of the Technology Planning Committee at
Niagara Charter School. We are requesting $29,472.33 to help build a computer lab for our low
income elementary students. Presently our students have limited access to computers and do not
have the ability to work in an efficient way to improve the technological skills required for their
success. The school has already made budget arrangements of over $220,000 over the next 5
years to provide a fulltime educational technology specialist to assist with this cause. Despite this
commitment from the school, we are still in need of funding to provide hardware and software.
By providing these technologies, it would allow us to better prepare our students of Niagara
County for success both in and out of school, and thus meeting your commitment to improving
the lives of the residence of Western New York.
We at Niagara Charter look forward to any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact
me with any questions and thank you for your time and consideration.
Regards,
Ehren Reynolds
Technology Specialist and Grant Contact
Table of Contents
Abstract of Proposal ....................................................................................................................5
Description of Organization ........................................................................................................6
Statement of Need .......................................................................................................................7
Program Description ...................................................................................................................9
Budget ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Timeline .................................................................................................................................... 11
Goals and Objectives................................................................................................................. 12
Academic Goals .................................................................................................................... 12
Technology Skills.................................................................................................................. 12
Program Evaluation ................................................................................................................... 12
Summary................................................................................................................................... 13
Appendix A – Current Board Members………………………………………………………….14
Appendix B – Faculty Technology Survey Results...……………………………………………15
Appendix C – Student Technology Survey Results……………………………………………...20
Appendix D – ISTE ICT Profile index…………………………………………………………..26
Appendix E- ISTE NETS-S Standards………………………………………………………….28
Appendix F – Niagara Falls Air Force Base Letter of Support………………………………….30
Appendix G – Niagara University Letter of Support…………………………………………….31
Abstract of Proposal
Request From: Niagara Charter School
Contact Name: Ehren Reynolds
Total Project Cost: $49,472.00
Other Funds Committed: $20,000 (thru donated computers)
Amount of This Request: $29,472.33
Mailing Address:
Niagara Charter School
2077 Lockport Road
Niagara Falls, New York 14304
Name of Project: Niagara Charter School Computer Lab
Address of Project:
Niagara Charter School
2077 Lockport Road
Niagara Falls, New York 14304
Target Clientele:
Students of Niagara Charter School (NCS), grades K-6. NCS students live in the Niagara Falls
region.
Project Synopsis:
Currently our students, most of whom come from low-income families are falling behind
academically as well in technology based skills necessary for their success in the information
age. This has been demonstrated by both in failing to meet the academic goals of our school as
well as observable deficiencies in meeting the International Society for Technology in Education
(ISTE) profiles for technology skills for their age levels.
The Technology Planning Committee at NCS has developed a plan to assist in remedying the
current situation facing our faculty and students. This plan includes: 1) the creation of a
computer lab, which is what this proposal is seeking to fund; 2) the hiring of an educational
technology specialist, which the NCS Board of Directors has completed and; 3) to continue to
supply student computers in the classrooms through donations from the Niagara Falls Air
Reserve Station. The computer lab will be equipped with one to one computer/student access,
and the educational technology specialist will provide instruction both for students and faculty as
well as oversight and management of the computer lab.
By implementing this plan, students will be able to engage in a greater number of computer
based projects and the instructional best practices for faculty will be improved. Students will be
able to better utilize many online educational resources, while also building skills that will help
them in the upcoming 2014-2015 computer based state assessments. Faculty will be able to work
in small group settings focused on research based technology best practices, which will allow
them to greatly improve their instruction.
This plan will affect approximately 600 Niagara Country children over the course of the next
five years. In doing so, NCS believes we are meeting the Western New York Foundation’s
mission to improve the lives of the residence of WNY and are graciously seeking your
assistance. Students who are academically successful are more likely to become college
graduates and choose careers that will enhance the viability and sustainability of the economy.
While students, who continue to struggle in school, run the risk of failing to graduate; increasing
the likelihood for reduced wages, reliance on social services and decreased opportunities.
Description of Organization
Niagara Charter School, established in 2006 is a tuition-free, K-6 public school in Niagara
County, New York. Our mission is dedicated to fostering the unique potential of each child by
providing a rigorous academic program using the Expeditionary Learning approach designed to
empower students as lifelong learners, resourceful and practical thinkers, active citizens, and
future leaders. We are the only charter school available in Niagara County and offer an
alternative public education to the Niagara Falls Central School District, the Niagara-Wheatfield
Central School District as well as the Lockport Central School District. Our enrollment is capped
at 350 students, with a lottery system and waiting list to provide entrance to the school. Grades
Kindergarten through 6th grade are provided Art, Music and Physical Education classes. The
school is staffed by 15 classroom teachers and 7 aides, with class sizes of approximately 25
students. The school is authorized through the New York State Education Department and has
been in operation for the past 6 years. Currently the school is in the final year of a three year
charter and is in the process of charter renewal.
NCS has a Technology Committee that consists of the Technology Specialist, the Fiscal
Manager, four Classroom Teachers and one member of Administration. This committee meets
monthly to implement and monitor the school’s technology plan and reports to the Board Of
Directors (BOD).
The BOD is committed to NCS and sees the implementation of this proposal as another strategy
to fulfill the school’s mission. Our current BOD has 11 active members that reflect the diversity
of our student population as well as community (Appendix A)
NCS has developed strong ties to the local community. We have an established relationship with
the Niagara Falls Air force Base and they have agreed to continue to provide used donated
computers every two years, coinciding with their upgrade cycle. NCS has a collaborative
relationship with Buffalo State College, whom provides student teachers and junior participant
educators in the Spring and Fall. Administration has forged strong relationships with local faith
based groups that are integral parts of many Niagara Falls neighborhoods. These groups were
instrumental in the opening of the Charter school, frustrated by the failing performance of the
urban public schools. The implementation of this proposal would help propel the academic
success of our students and continue to help the school build trust and respect within the
community.
Statement of Need
NCS is the only charter school currently located in Niagara County. The focus of the school is to
educate students through the Expeditionary Learning (EL) model, to promote hands on, real
world experiences. The school is located in a rural setting; however the vast majority of the
students live in the city of Niagara Falls, NY. Many of the students are identified as being “AtRisk” with 97% of the students qualifying for the federal Free and Reduced Price Lunch (FRPL).
Additionally 16.4% of the students have identified disabilities.
Presently, NCS students are struggling to meet the academic goals set forth in the school’s
charter in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math. By not meeting these goals, not only are the
students demonstrating a lack of academic success, but this also causes the charter to be in
danger (fundamentally causing the school to close). By providing a fully implemented computer
laboratory, the students will be able to work on the skills outlined in the New York State
Common Core Standards and ISTE nets for students. Given the imperativeness of this situation
the following goals must be prioritized to assist students in improving their scores in ELA and
Math:
• To provide hardware technologies (student computers, faculty computers, projectors,
peripherals) for computer laboratory.
• To provide educational software for student and faculty computers.
Currently, there is space designated for the computer laboratory located in the build-out section
of the school; however it has no hardware technologies except for being wired with Ethernet
network cabling. The school has a contractual service with Synergy Technologies to provide
hardware support to the school. This service provides help-desk support to administration and
staff as well as per-diem hardware and software installations. The school has two network
servers, creating faculty and student networks. With the monies made available through the erate program, the school has obtained a T-1 internet connection which serves the entire school
with access to the internet. Additionally, the school has obtained a site license for the use of
Google Drive as well as smart board software provided by Einstruction.
In the winter of 2013, both students and staff were asked to complete respective technology
surveys (Appendix B & C) aimed at identifying technology needs. From these surveys the
following findings emerged:
A. Students learn best with technology when they have access to individual computers.
B. Staff needs professional development with the opportunity to learn about new technologies as
well as have time to create products to be used with students.
C. Professional development on new technology should be prioritized on the following topics
with (1) being of highest priority.
1. Google drive integration
2. Smart board integration
3. Use of podcasts in education
4. Implementing wikis in teaching
5. Using digital photography, audio, and video
In addition to these surveys, observations of several teachers from a variety of grade levels, as
well as the findings of the Technology Committee (see Appendix D) demonstrate that students
are also not meeting the educational profiles for grades K- 6th set forth by the International
Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).
Program Description
Funds from the WNY Foundation would support the purchasing of equipment necessary to build
a sustainable computer lab. The following items would be purchased:
26 Student Laboratory Desktop Computers
According to the students’ technology survey results, students believe they learn more
effectively when they are allowed to work independently on computers as opposed to having to
share or take turns. By allowing for a complete class set of computers, projects could be worked
on simultaneously after watching instructions. This allows for greater collaboration, time on task
and students’ success.
1 Faculty Desktop Computer & Netsupport School
Students will need to be instructed on various stages of projects and faculty will need a computer
to provide these instructions. By utilizing classroom management software such as Netsupport
School, teachers can display their screen on student computers. In addition to helping cut the cost
for a smart board or projector, this system increases students’ attention to the instructions
because it is easier to see and it helps to prevent them from becoming distracted because the
focus is on their computer. Another benefit of the software is that it allows teachers to control
what applications students have available while allowing for teachers to monitor and assist
students remotely.
Faronics Deep Freeze Software
Computers left unprotected become inconsistent and problematic after only short periods of time.
When students are able to change settings, download, install and save files directly to laboratory
computers, eventually each computer becomes separate from the group. This lack of uniformity
among the computers can cause instructional difficulties, fundamentally leading to student
frustration and lack of success. Faronics Deep Freeze locks computer settings and prevents files
from being saved directly on the machine after lab administrators configure each machine
uniformly. Re-booted “frozen” machines will always return to the default state.
Headset Microphones
At times students will need access to audio files for various tasks using their desktop computers.
Without headsets the lab would become loud and disorganized. By having individual headsets
students can better hear instructions and are less likely to distract their classmates. With
microphones attached, students can then record audio for projects as well as interact with
classmates and faculty without disturbing the entire class.
Digital Video Cameras Capable of Recording Photos and Video
It is beneficial to provide a small set of cameras so that students can record images and video of
various events around the school. These multimedia files can then be used in digital projects. By
providing cameras that provide both options, the school could reduce costs while decreasing the
amount of devices needing to be managed.
Flatbed Scanner
Oftentimes when working with digital media, it is helpful to be able to import printed
documents. This could be for creating resources for students, for combining hand written work
with typed material as well as other benefits. A flatbed scanner, while not as efficient as one with
an automatic document feeder, does provide more flexibility with the types of documents that it
can accommodate.
Overhead Projector or Smart Board
These technologies would allow classes to view (and with the case of a smart board, interact),
with a display computer. This is beneficial in that the whole class can take part in a discussion
based around what is being displayed.
Tablet Computers
Based on the student technology survey, many students would like to use tablet computers for
educational purposes. By providing tablets, students could use them to work in small groups as
well as have mobility around the school.
Budget
Item
Cost
(approximations)
26 Student Desktops (Windows)
Dell XPS 8500 i5
$750 per unit
$19,500.00
1 Faculty Desktop (Windows)
Dell XPS 8500 i5
$750
Net Support Classroom Management Software
$518.70 per 10 Licenses X 3
$1556.10
Faronics Deep Freeze Software
$35.50 per X 27
Standard Edition
$958.50
26 headset microphones
SchoolMate Deluxe Automatic Stereo/Mono
Switching Headphones w/ Microphone
$ 14.99 X 27
$ 404.73
Digital Video Cameras capable of recording
photos and video.
GeoSafari® Tuff Cam
$39.00 X 6
$234.00
Flatbed scanner
Visioneer OneTouch 8920 USB Flatbed Scanner
$75.00
LCD Projector or Smart Board
$3000.00
6 Tablet Computers
IPAD WI-FI 16GB BLACK
$499.00 x 6
$2994.00
Total Cost
$29,472.33
Timeline
May 1, 2013
Hardware and software purchase bids distributed to vendors.
June 1, 2013
Hardware and software purchase.
June 15, 2013
Hardware installation
July 1. 2013
Software instillation
August 12 -16, 2013
August 19, 2013
Faculty training sessions
Full implementation
To ensure the continued viability of the lab, the Technology Committee will be charged with
continuing to seek out opportunities for funding as well as to collaborate with local community
supporters for fundraising possibilities. An NCS Board Member is a faculty member of a local
University. She has already reached out to her Chair inquiring how the University can support
this effort and plans are underway for some form of fundraising collaboration. Charter schools in
neighboring Erie County have successfully implemented their technology plans including the
building of computer labs and NCS has scheduled two conference calls next quarter to discuss
their respective sustainability plans.
Goals and Objectives
The goal is to purchase equipment to assist students in meeting their educational goals and
improving their technology skills. With the support of this funding, NCS will build a computer
lab that will provide 1:1 student to computer ratio. By providing this computer laboratory NCS
will be allowed to meet the following academic and technology skills goals.
Academic Goals
75% of all students who have attended NCS continually and consistently for 2 or more years will
attain 3 or 4 on NYS Assessments administered in grades 3 through 6.
Each grade level cohort will reduce by 50% the gap between the cohort mean performance and
50 NCE (Normal Curve Equivalents) on the Terra Nova test.
By the fourth year of the technology plan, NCS will exceed the percentage of students from
Niagara Falls who score a 3 or 4 on the 4th grade State Assessments.
Technology Skills
All students in grades K-6th will demonstrate 75% of the technology experiences identified for
their grade level as identified by the ISTE ICT Profiles (Appendix F).
Program Evaluation
The Technology Specialist will oversee the implementation, oversight and monitoring of the
computer lab. This would include regular computer maintenance/upgrades in conjunction with
Synergy Technologies. The Technology Committee will also serve in an advisory capacity and
will provide monthly reports for the Board of Directors’ meetings. Academic growth will be
compared by yearly Terra Novas as well as State Assessment comparisons. Student
technological skills will be compared using the ITSE student profiles to assess whether students
are at their age ability in terms of using technology. The Technology committee will be meeting
monthly to determine if goals are being met and assess needs of both faculty and students in
meeting these goals. Quarterly conference calls with the funder will be conducted as well as an
annual site visit by the funder. NCS will abide by all of WNY Foundations’ reporting
requirements and schedule.
Summary
With the support of the WNY Foundation, NCS can realize the vision of a fully supported
computer lab allowing our students to maximize their learning potentials. We envision immense
student growth both academically and in technology skills. We foresee a modern learning
environment that allows students to work cooperatively, to engage in 21 st century experiences
leading to increased opportunities to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate learning in ways
unavailable previously. Through this engagement we believe students will be more likely to
succeed in school and in their chosen careers in the future. Through the generous support of the
WNY Foundation this vision can become reality, helping meet both NCS goals to improve the
lives of our students and in turn in Western New York. We want to thank the WNY Foundation
for the consideration of this request, and look forward to establishing a long, mutually beneficial
relationship.
Appendix A
Niagara Charter School Board of Directors 2013
William J. Bradberry, Vice President
Niagara Falls Rotary Club
Olga Camacho
Teacher Representative Member
Dominic DeBose, Parent Representative Member
Local business owner
Richard D. Hague Jr., Secretary, At-large Member
Pastor of local church
Dr. Leticia Hahn, At-large Member
Professor at Niagara University
Janet Hill
Teacher Representative Member
James C. Muffoletto, President, At-large Member
CPA
James Phillips,At-large Member
Military serviceman
Mary J. Scheeler, At-large Member
Retired teacher
Ricky Scott, Treasurer, At-large Member
Vice President of KeyBank
LaKea Strong, Parent Representative
Local business owner
30
Ehren Reynolds
Appendix B
Faculty Technology Survey
Edit this form
responses
Summary See complete responses
What is your role?
Teacher
18
60%
Administration
2
7%
Teachers Assistant
5
17%
Substitute
4
13%
Office Staff
1
3%
Please identify which of the following educational technologies (software) YOU CURRENTLY USE in teaching. Mark
all that apply
Email
20 15%
Google Drive
4
3%
Web Quests
7
5%
Social Networking
8
6%
Blogging
3
2%
Wikis
2
1%
Podcasts
0
0%
eInstruct Workspace (Smart Board Software)
19
14%
Presentation Software (PowerPoint, Prezi, etc..)
23
17%
Audio/Video Multimedia
19
14%
Word Processing
27
20%
4
3%
Other
How would you rate your overall skill in using educational technology
Below Basic
2
7%
Basic
16
53%
Proficient
11
37%
Advanced
1
3%
Approximately how long have you been teaching?
0-3 Years
8
27%
4-5 Years
6
20%
6-10 Years
12
40%
11-20 Years
2
7%
More than 20 Years
2
7%
Please identify which of the following educational technologies (hardware) YOU CURRENTLY USE in teaching.
Mark all that apply.
Teacher Computer
28 21%
Student Computer
21
15%
Mobi
13
10%
Tablet
9
7%
Smart Phone
10
7%
Smart Board
20
15%
Digital cameras, scanners, video cameras
15
11%
CPS Devices (Clickers)
7
5%
GPS Units
4
3%
Computer Lab
1
1%
Mobil Computer Lab
0
0%
Calculators
8
6%
Other
0
0%
(Teachers) How many working computers are in your room?
None
1
3%
Teacher Only
2
7%
Laptop Cart Available
0
0%
1-5
10
33%
6-16
5
17%
17+
0
0%
One for each student
0
0%
12
40%
Not Applicable
Would you be interested in having small group trainings afterschool or during in-service days to learn how to use new
technology and be given time to create materials to integrate it into your lessons?
Not Interested
1
3%
Somewhat Interested (depending on the technology available)
12
39%
Very Interested
18
58%
5
17%
Somewhat Interested (depending on the technology available)
10
33%
Very Interested
15
50%
Would you be interested in learning more about Google Docs and how to integrate it into your classroom?
Not Interested
A wiki is a webpage that is easily edited (and that can be edited by anyone that the owner specifies). Please rate your interest
in learning more about using wikis in the classroom.
Not Interested
6 20%
Somewhat Interested (depending on the technology available)
Very Interested
8
27%
16
53%
Podcasts are audio/video content that are freely distributed online. In fact, there are literally thousands of educational
podcasts available for classroom use. Please rate your interest in learning more about the educational uses of podcasts.
Not Interested
5
Somewhat Interested (depending on the technology available)
Very Interested
17%
9
30%
16
53%
Social networking is an online technology that has become extremely popular among our students today. Did you know,
however, that there exist EDUCATIONALLY SOUND social networks for teachers (and students) alike? Please rate your interest
in learning more about the educational benefits of social networking
Not Interested
4 13%
Somewhat Interested (depending on the technology available)
13
43%
Very Interested
13
43%
Please rate your interest in learning about creating a class website.
Not Interested
3
10%
Somewhat Interested (depending on the technology available)
13
43%
Very Interested
14
47%
Copyright, while incredibly complex, is important for every teacher to understand. Furthermore, as more and more teachers
publish their work on the Internet, alternative licensing methods (like the Creative Commons) should be understood. Please
rate your interest in learning more about educational copyright and the Creative Commons.
Not Interested
6 20%
Somewhat Interested (depending on the technology available)
11
37%
Very Interested
13
43%
Which of the following educational technologies would you be MOST interested in learning more about?
WebQuests
7
8%
Smart Board Integration
16
19%
Google Docs
16
19%
Blogs
4
5%
Wikis
11
13%
Podcasting
8
10%
Social Networking
6
7%
12
14%
3
4%
Digital photography, audio, and video
Other
Number of daily responses
Appendix C
Student Technology Survey
Niagara Charter School Student Technology
Survey
1. Whats Your Name?
Response
Count
60
answered question
60
skipped question
0
Response
Response
Percent
Count
2. What grade are you in?
3rd
1.7%
1
4th
45.0%
27
5th
18.3%
11
6th
35.0%
21
answered question
60
skipped question
0
1 of 6
3. How often do you use a computer in school?
Response
Response
Percent
Count
Daily
20.0%
12
Weekly
20.0%
12
Often
15.0%
9
Sometimes
30.0%
18
Not very often
11.7%
7
Never
3.3%
2
answered question
60
skipped question
0
2 of 6
4. Please estimate your skills in the areas listed below. BE HONEST
I'm an expert
I'm pretty
good
I need help
I don't know
Rating
how
Count
Blogging
20.7% (12)
41.4% (24)
24.1% (14)
13.8% (8)
58
Copying, Cutting, Pasting Files
29.8% (17)
35.1% (20)
24.6% (14)
10.5% (6)
57
Bookmarking Websites
25.0% (14)
32.1% (18)
19.6% (11)
23.2% (13)
56
Using Digital Cameras
43.9% (25)
33.3% (19)
12.3% (7)
10.5% (6)
57
Using Video Cameras
59.6% (34)
21.1% (12)
12.3% (7)
7.0% (4)
57
55.2% (32)
17.2% (10)
10.3% (6)
17.2% (10)
58
9.3% (5)
14.8% (8)
29.6% (16)
46.3% (25)
54
47.4% (27)
29.8% (17)
10.5% (6)
12.3% (7)
57
37.9% (22)
34.5% (20)
19.0% (11)
8.6% (5)
58
26.3% (15)
31.6% (18)
22.8% (13)
19.3% (11)
57
67.2% (39)
25.9% (15)
3.4% (2)
3.4% (2)
58
Social Networking (Facebook,
Twitter)
Wikis
Typing Documents
Creating Pictures Using A
Computer
Transferring Pictures Or Videos To
A Computer
Finding Information Using The
Internet
3 of 6
answered question
60
skipped question
0
5. How often does your classroom teacher use technology for classroom instruction, such
as a computer/iPad and projector?
Response
Response
Percent
Count
daily
41.7%
25
weekly
11.7%
7
often
13.3%
8
sometimes
16.7%
10
not very often
8.3%
5
never
8.3%
5
answered question
60
skipped question
0
Response
Response
Percent
Count
6. What technology do you learn from the best in the classroom?
A computer you are using
A computer and projector that a
teacher is using
A Smart Board that both the
teacher and students are using
CPS Clickers
4 of 6
25.0%
15
23.3%
14
48.3%
29
3.3%
2
answered question
60
skipped question
0
7. How important to your learning do you feel having access to technology is (do you learn
better from the use of technology)?
Response
Response
Percent
Count
Very important
46.7%
28
Pretty important
43.3%
26
Not very important
8.3%
5
Not Important at all
1.7%
1
answered question
60
skipped question
0
Response
Response
Percent
Count
8. What do you use computers for the most?
Internet
36.7%
22
Research
10.0%
6
Writing Papers
6.7%
4
Learning Material
8.3%
5
Watching Video
5.0%
3
Playing Games
25.0%
15
Making Art
8.3%
5
answered question
60
skipped question
0
5 of 6
9. What type of technology do you have at home (all devices)? Check all that apply!
Response
Response
Percent
Count
Desktop computer(s)
33.3%
20
Laptop computer(s)
41.7%
25
iPod touch (1 or more)
33.3%
20
Tablet (Ipad, Kindle Fire)
41.7%
25
HD TV
46.7%
28
Internet
61.7%
37
Cell phone
63.3%
38
None
1.7%
1
answered question
60
skipped question
0
10. What technology would you like to have in your classroom or have more access to?
Response
Response
Percent
Count
Computer and Projectors
5.0%
3
A Smart Board
10.0%
6
Laptops
16.7%
10
Tablets (Ipad, Kindle Fire)
66.7%
40
CPS Clickers
1.7%
1
answered question
60
skipped question
0
6 of 6
Appendix D
ISTE Profile K-6 Assessment Inventory
Niagara Charter Technology Committee
ISTE Profile K-6 Assessment Inventory
The following inventory was created in collaboration with technology committee observations, as well
as input from classroom teacher’s assessments of student abilities using technology.
ISTE ICT Profile
Grades PK–2 (Ages 4–8)
Technology Experience
1. Illustrate and communicate original ideas and stories using digital
tools and media-rich resources. (1, 2)
2. Identify, research, and collect data on an environmental issue using
digital resources and propose a developmentally appropriate solution.
(1, 3, 4)
3. Engage in learning activities with learners from multiple cultures
through e-mail and other electronic means. (2, 6)
4. In a collaborative work group, use a variety of technologies to
produce a digital presentation or product in a curriculum area. (1, 2, 6)
5. Find and evaluate information related to a current or historical
person or event using digital resources. (3)
6. Use simulations and graphical organizers to explore and depict
patterns of growth such as the life cycles of plants and animals. (1, 3, 4)
7. Demonstrate the safe and cooperative use of technology. (5)
8. Independently apply digital tools and resources to address a variety
of tasks and problems. (4, 6)
9. Communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate
and accurate
terminology. (6)
10. Demonstrate the ability to navigate in virtual environments such as
electronic books,
simulation software, and Web sites. (6)
Unmet
x
Met
Exceeded
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
ISTE ICT Profile
Grades 3–5 (Ages 8–11)
Technology Experience
1. Produce a media-rich digital story about a significant local event
based on first-person
interviews. (1, 2, 3, 4)
Unmet
x
Met
Exceeded
2. Use digital-imaging technology to modify or create works of art for
use in a digital presentation. (1, 2, 6)
3. Recognize bias in digital resources while researching an
environmental issue with guidance from the teacher. (3, 4)
4. Select and apply digital tools to collect, organize, and analyze data to
evaluate theories or test hypotheses. (3, 4, 6)
5. Identify and investigate a global issue and generate possible solutions
using digital tools and resources. (3, 4)
6. Conduct science experiments using digital instruments and
measurement devices. (4, 6)
7. Conceptualize, guide, and manage individual or group learning
projects using digital planning tools with teacher support. (4, 6)
8. Practice injury prevention by applying a variety of ergonomic
strategies when using technology. (5)
9. Debate the effect of existing and emerging technologies on
individuals, society, and the global community. (5, 6)
10. Apply previous knowledge of digital technology operations to
analyze and solve current hardware and software problems. (4, 6)
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
ISTE ICT Profile
Grades 6–8 (Ages 11–14)
Technology Experience
1. Describe and illustrate a content-related concept or process using a
model, simulation, or concept-mapping software. (1, 2)
2. Create original animations or videos documenting school,
community, or local events. (1, 2, 6)
3. Gather data, examine patterns, and apply information for decision
making using digital tools and resources. (1, 4)
4. Participate in a cooperative learning project in an online learning
community. (2)
5. Evaluate digital resources to determine the credibility of the author
and publisher and the timeliness and accuracy of the content. (3)
6. Employ data-collection technology such as probes, handheld devices,
and geographic mapping systems to gather, view, analyze, and report
results for content-related problems. (3, 4, 6)
7. Select and use the appropriate tools and digital resources to
accomplish a variety of tasks and to solve problems. (3, 4, 6)
8. Use collaborative electronic authoring tools to explore common
curriculum content from multicultural perspectives with other learners.
(2, 3, 4, 5)
9. Integrate a variety of file types to create and illustrate a document or
presentation. (1, 6)
10. Independently develop and apply strategies for identifying and
solving routine hardware
Unmet
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Met
Exceeded
and software problems. (4, 6)
Appendix E
ISTE NETS-S Standards
1. Creativity and Innovation
Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct
knowledge, and develop innovative products and
processes using technology.
a. Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas,
products, or processes
b. Create original works as a means of personal
or group expression
c. Use models and simulations to explore complex
systems and issues
d. Identify trends and forecast possibilities
2.Communication and Collaboration
3.Research and Information Fluency
Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate,
and use information.
a. Plan strategies to guide inquiry
b. Locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize,
and ethically use information from a variety of
sources and media
c. Evaluate and select information sources and digital
tools based on the appropriateness to specific tasks
d. Process data and report results
4.Critical Thinking, Problem Solving,
and Decision Making
Students use digital media and environments to
communicate and work collaboratively, including
at a distance, to support individual learning and
contribute to the learning of others.
Students use critical thinking skills to plan and
conduct research, manage projects, solve problems,
and make informed decisions using appropriate
digital tools and resources.
a. Interact, collaborate, and publish with peers,
experts, or others employing a variety of digital
environments and media
b. Communicate information and ideas effectively
to multiple audiences using a variety of media
and formats
c. Develop cultural understanding and global
awareness by engaging with learners of
other cultures
d. Contribute to project teams to produce original
works or solve problems
a. Identify and define authentic problems and
significant questions for investigation
b. Plan and manage activities to develop a solution
or complete a project
c. Collect and analyze data to identify solutions
and/or make informed decisions
d. Use multiple processes and diverse perspectives
to explore alternative solutions
5. Digital Citizenship
Students understand human, cultural, and societal
issues related to technology and practice legal and
ethical behavior.
a. Advocate and practice safe, legal, and responsible
use of information and technology
b. Exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology
that supports collaboration, learning, and productivity
c. Demonstrate personal responsibility for
lifelong learning
d. Exhibit leadership for digital citizenship
iste.org/nets
6. Technology Operations and Concepts
Students demonstrate a sound understanding
of technology concepts, systems, and operations.
a. Understand and use technology systems
b. Select and use applications effectively
and productively
c. Troubleshoot systems and applications
d. Transfer current knowledge to learning
of new technologies
NETS·S © 2007 International Society for Technology in Education.
ISTE® is a registered trademark of the International Society for
Technology in Education.
Appendix F
Niagara Falls Air Force Base Letter of Support
March 1, 2013
Western New York Foundation
11 Summer Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
To Whom It May Concern,
Please accept this letter of support for Niagara Charter’s School grant application seeking funds for a
computer lab.
We applaud the school’s efforts in pursuing their mission to its fullest potential. Funds from your
foundation would benefit the students of NCS and in turn, our community greatly. With a declining
economy and high poverty levels in the Niagara Falls region, we rely on educational institutions to pave
the way for future opportunities for our children. The Military Base is located directly across the street
from Niagara Charter and we have been collaborating with the administration and staff for the past 6
years. We pledge to continue to provide them the computers that remain from our updates every 2
years.
We are proud of Niagara Charter School in our community and know that they will be good stewards of
your foundation dollars.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions and thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Sgt. John Doe
Niagara Falls Military Base
Appendix G
Niagara University Letter of Support
March 1, 2013
Western New York Foundation
11 Summer Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
To Whom It May Concern,
Please accept this letter of support for Niagara Charter’s School grant application seeking funds for a
computer lab.
Niagara University’s mission is that through quality teaching and meaningful research, we seek to
develop within our students a passion for knowledge and inquiry. This provides the cornerstone of
success in academia and the workplace, and propels the journey of lifelong learning. Our mission and
that of Niagara Charter School is similar in this regard, albeit on opposite ends of the learning spectrum.
We applaud the school’s efforts in pursuing the goal of developing their students’ passion for knowledge
and inquiry and know the impact a fully functioning computer lab can have on a classroom.
One of our faculty, Dr. Leticia Hahn has been on the NCS Board of Directors for the past 3 years. We
value the role she plays and the bridge she creates between our two institutions. We will continue to
support her role on the Board. Additionally, we pledge to assist NCS in fundraising events and
opportunities to enhance the long term stability plan of the computer lab.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions and thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Marilyn Rose, PhD.
Vice President of Student Affairs
Niagara University