EKU's College of Education has received a $100,000 grant from AT&T to develop and deliver an on-line technology certification program to P-12 teachers throughout Kentucky.

A series of content-rich, interactive technology modules will lead to a certificate in educational technology at one of three levels - Educational Technology Specialist, School-Wide Technology Implementer and Technology Facilitator. A "test out" mechanism will allow participants to move rapidly through the program at their own pace and concentrate on specific areas of need.

"In the past five years, Kentucky has become one of the most technologically connected states in the nation," noted Dr. Mark Wasicsko, dean of EKU's College of Education, "but many teachers feel underprepared to use technology. This program will provide teachers throughout the region and Kentucky the technology skills they need."

Dr. Steve Hyndman, project director and technology coordinator for the College of Education, cited a recent Milken Study that confirmed that Kentucky teachers were not spending sufficient time developing their technology skills in structured learning situations but were in favor of teacher standards in technology.

Wasicsko said the College is working closely with the Education Professional Standards Board to ensure that all requirements are met for an endorsement in educational technology.

The final requirement for participating teachers is to pass along their proficiencies to parents at training workshops.

"Often the only exposure students receive to technology is in the schools," Hyndman said. "To make systemic change, it is critical to have computers in the homes of more families in our service region. This will happen more readily when parents can have experiences with technology that now are reserved only for kids in schools."

EKU and AT&T have enjoyed a long, productive partnership. Since 1986, AT&T has awarded $2.1 million to the University for various projects and programs.

"AT&T's generous support of this project underscores the importance and impact of philanthropy from corporate America," said EKU President Joanne Glasser. "This partnership will allow us to develop an innovative approach to meeting the needs of Kentucky schoolteachers and, ultimately, all Kentuckians."

Eric Lewandowski, national accounts manager with AT&T, who presented the $100,000 check to Wasicsko, said, "Anytime we can work together and use technology in improving
communities, we consider it a very good investment. EKU got us excited" about the project.

EKU's College of Education has a long tradition of preparing educators for the Commonwealth's schools. Eastern has graduated more schoolteachers and administrators than any other institution in Kentucky, and more than one-third of the active teachers and administrators in Kentucky earned at least one degree or certification from Eastern.

The College, which has earned national recognition for developing quality, innovative academic and service programs, recently announced plans for establishing the Center for the Renewal of Schools and the Education Professions. The Center will integrate the University's professional education programs, Model Laboratory School and Kentucky's teachers and school administrators.

For more information, contact the EKU College of Education at 859-622-3515.