More Education Technology Professionals Needed in Schools

We are bombarded with Social Media, learning the latest Apps, buying the current iPhone, iPad, we can't get away from technology.

Neither can our kids, it's coming so fast some schools can't keep up with the demand for professionals, to teach it in the classroom.

Kerri Akines is a trained math specialist at Taylor Elementary in White Hall, when the district switched over from chalk boards to smart boards, she was on-board.

"I'm part of the generation that loves technology, and knows where we are going with new technology, said Akines."

But a recent article in the Huffington Post says schools don't have enough Education Technology Professionals, trained on things kids are using everyday outside of the class.

Harry Dickens with the Arkansas Public School Resource Center in Little Rock agrees, more training is needed.

"This is 21st century teaching."

Tammie Canada Principal at Taylor Elementary says hiring more Ed Tech Professionals is good, but, current educators need to get extra training as well.

"The more knowledge our teachers have in their tool belt, the more bang you're gonna get for your buck, added Canada."

A push to make sure educators are prepared today, to ensure students move forward tomorrow.

Teachers are required to get six hours of tech training each year.

Administrators also tell us that Tech Support Specialists are needed to keep all the technology up and running.