Starpoint tech director outlines 2026–29 instructional technology plan approved by State Ed

Nicole Haller, Starpoint’s director of technology, presented the district’s instructional technology plan covering 2026–2029 and summarized its three priorities: infrastructure, devices and professional learning.

“Our focus will be making sure that students and staff can count on reliable, secure access to the tools they need,” Haller said, describing goals to strengthen the network, improve wireless coverage, enhance cybersecurity and build backup and recovery systems. She said the district will evaluate devices used by students — including whether grades 3–8 testing devices should have touch screens — and will align device decisions to classroom instructional needs.

Haller said the plan, developed by the district technology committee with representation from every building and parent input, was approved by the State Education Department in January, placing Starpoint among an early set of districts whose plans received state approval. “We identified three key areas for our new tech plan, which are infrastructure, devices, and professional learning,” she said, and added that professional learning will include practical training and a careful, responsible look at emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Haller said parents and community members should expect surveys next year to gather information about device use and needs, including whether district devices should go home with students. Board members thanked Haller for the work and noted the plan’s potential to support classroom instruction.