The Long Range Plan for Technology (LRPT)

The Long Range Plan for Technology (LRPT) is a very comprehensive document which sets out the goals and responsibilities for all who have a stake in education, be they an educational entity, such as the Texas Education Agency (TEA) or the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC), an educator, a student, or a parent. It provides a vision of how the state of Texas will meet the challenge of the 21st century, and in particular how we will prepare our students to be successful in and meet the demands of the global economy as it continues to develop. The LRPT provides a timeline for the state to achieve its technological goals. The timeline is broken down into three phases: the first phase runs from 2006 to 2010; the second phase runs from 2011 to 2015 and the final phase runs from 2016 to 2020. Phase I lays the foundations for change and puts forth a framework for the other two phases, although the requirements and expectations for Phase II will be further developed as we move through the plan.

The document is sub-divided into sections, each one dealing with a different aspect of education and technology. As well as outlining a vision for where we need to be by 2010, it also provides information and data on the need for change, as well as giving a picture of the 21st century learner and the needs of educators (and the responsibilities of those who train them) if they are going to be in a position to meet the goals of the LRPT.