476 Warriors Way Shelbyville, KY 40065 March 28, 2014

Mr. James Neihof Shelby County Public Schools PO Box 159, 1155 West Main St Shelbyville, KY 40066 Dear Mr. Neihof: After hearing about the work of our Strategic Leadership Team, including the vision, mission, and 5 strand framework for the next 5 years, I can honestly say I am excited about our districts future as both an educator and a parent. As the plan was presented, in a recent staff meeting, it was evident that the team put in countless hours researching, asking hard questions, listening intently to students, parents, and teachers, and visiting innovative schools. I commend the Strategic Leadership Team on a job well done and thank them for their time and dedication to this project. It was clear that the 5 strand framework (Globally Effective Students, 21st Century Professionals, Healthy and Responsible Students, Leadership Innovation, and 21st Century Support Systems) that was created for the next 5 years fully embraces the need to empower teachers to capitalize on our changing world. Students today live in a digital age with an abundance of technology at their fingertips. As I listened to the presentation, I was glad to hear that our plan included needed changes such as: teaching digital responsibility, supporting virtual learning, replacing computer labs with 1:1 computing, and maximizing access to our wireless system to name a few. Briefly, a funding plan was mentioned to support 1:1 digital conversion through rental/lease agreements designed to keep current devices in the hands of students. Certainly, with these immense changes a budget will need to be established and a funding plan created. Although it was not shared with us, I am sure it is beginning to take shape. I ask you to consider funding a certified technology teacher at each of Shelby Countys schools to help teachers lead the way in effectively implementing 21st century technology tools. Equipping schools with innovative technology is important, but without the detailed training and continuous assistance of a more knowledgeable and helpful person, the effectiveness will decline. I see this as a current issue within our schools. Our SMART classrooms are not being used to their greatest potential. I believe this is because teachers do not have the support within their schools to fully learn about the power and capacity of our current technologies. Teachers in our schools are working harder than ever to help all students reach big goals. Unfortunately, technology is not in the forefront due to lack of help. I am requesting that the board fund a certified teacher with a technology degree or endorsement to lead the way in each of Shelby Countys schools. Thank you for your time and considering my request. Sincerely,

Kristy L. King