FALL LEGISLATIVE STRATEGY

ALTP has been successful in the 1998 and 1999 legislative sessions. Advocacy in both years was a factor in technology infrastructure and equipment being included in the $350 million Students First legislation. The soft capital funding included $50 million, which could be used for technology in the classroom.  With computer hardware, software and Internet set to increase in schools, the ALTP focus has now shifted to technical support, and teacher-staff professional development.

The ALTP Teacher Professional Development Project, July 1999 to November 1999 has created a teacher and staff professional development curriculum that will ensure effective technology integration in the classroom.  A gap and cost analysis will be based on a study of the level of teacher and staff development and the capability of development providers in Arizona.  This study will support the final development of legislation needed to fund both professional development and technical support.

From September 1999 to November 1999 the ALTP legislative team expects to meet with each of 90 legislatures with their district supporters on this 2000 K-12 funding legislation.  The impending legislation will be explained and support solicited.

The rational and current legislative concept is in
Addressing Key New Economy Issues
Legislative Initiative to Address Arizona’s
Shortage of IT Capable K-12 Teachers