From kindergarten to high school and from rural schoolhouse to inner–city classroom, technology is changing teaching and learning. Whether it’s middle–schoolers examining a scientific hypothesis through a simulation or fourth–graders living miles apart collaborating on a study of local weather patterns through electronic mail, technology is helping to change education. That’s the up–side.

The potential down-side is that, without strong leadership, not every student will enjoy technology’s advantages. Without a well–thought–out policy in place — and without the commitment to fund up–to–date technology in the schools — the interests of children, their parents, and the community will not be well served. Schools will fall further behind the society that surrounds them. Technology is critical to preparing students to live, learn, and work successfully in a digital age.

The purpose of the EDvancenet Leader’s Guide to Education Technology is to help school leaders and policymakers (1) become more aware of the use of technology and its impact on fundamental issues in education — student achievement, educational equity, and workforce preparedness — and (2) develop strategies for making a measurable difference in education through the use of technology. In each section of the Leader’s Guide , successful implementation strategies and examples of effective programs are reviewed, challenges are outlined, and questions are posed. The Leader’s Guide also includes twelve keys for success for leaders and points to the EDvancenet Web site and other resources for additional information.

With more than $5 billion slated to be spent on technology for elementary and secondary schools this year, it is essential that decisions be made wisely. The public understands the importance of computer technology to education, especially parents of school–age children. And, according to recent polls, they accept the fact that it will take a financial commitment to make it work (Milken Exchange on Educational Technology, 1998).

To participate in the technology revolution, every school district must have a district–wide improvement plan that clearly addresses how technology will be integrated into its mission. The plan must include a long–term strategy for investment and for assessment. The plan must also establish a link with the community — with business leaders and with parents — and encourage commitment and buy–in by school staff. Among the central elements of a good plan will be a concern for student achievement, educational equity, and workforce preparedness.