FY14 Budget Overview
State decision makers do understand the value of the Ohio Education Computer Network as a "go to" shared service and have provided
additional funds for expanding the INFOhio instructional network. Not
only did we maintain our basic funding level through the Ohio
Department of Education, but we also were awarded several additional
grants to power up Ohio schools for digital learning. These dollars
will ensure equitable access to critical instructional resources for
all Ohio schools both traditional and online. INFOhio will provide: New and Improved Digital Resources - Scholastic BookFlix, e-books for grades K-3. BookFlix is a collection of
Weston Woods videos of classic picture books paired with related
nonfiction texts that supports young readers in meeting the Third Grade
Reading Guarantee. - INFOhio's Core Collection of Electronic Resource databases purchased
jointly through Libraries Connect Ohio helps support research and
learning. See what's new as of July 1 by visiting http://www.infohio.org/er/ERcore.asp. - A revitalized Digital Video Collection to help with differentiated
instruction. We polled educators to determine the type of materials
most needed as the first step in this process
Expanded and Regional Instructional Support - INFOhio e-Learning Specialists, Gayle Geitgey, Melissa
Higgs-Horwell, and Jennifer Schwelik will act as regional coordinators
working with ITC Providers, regional agencies, school districts, and
community organizations to provide training and awareness of INFOhio's
PreK-12 digital library. - ILibrarian. This is a newly created staff position. Specialists hired will focus on digital learning and supporting projects statewide.
- Regional ICoaches. ICoaches are trained to provide professional development related to INFOhio learning tools and resources. Trainers are located throughout Ohio.
- District/Building Level ICoaches. More than 70 applicants will be trained this summer to help educators in their school systems increase digital learning and awareness of INFOhio.
Enhanced access through our updated INFOhio.org site - Our redesigned INFOhio website, scheduled for release on September 1, will give both students and educators enhanced access to our
resources and instructional information. Be sure to check out our
easier to use portals for students and educators.
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