Instructional Technology

The mission of the FSSD Instructional Technology Department is to integrate technology seamlessly, providing students with a rich educational experience while equipping students and staff with the technology skill set needed to function successfully in an increasingly digital society. The FSSD Instructional Technology Specialists are committed to advancing and supporting an environment that maximizes the integration and use of technology by students and staff, thereby allowing them to reach their full potential to adapt, manage, and participate in a digitally literate world. Academic achievement is enhanced when the implementation of technology tools is combined with sound instructional practices. The FSSD is committed to collaborating with teachers, administrators, and students to enrich teaching and learning through the use of technology.

Instructional Resources 

The Instructional Technology Department has compiled a listing of online resources to assist students, parents and school staff with finding and using appropriate and instructionally sound websites and digital textbook companions. Please visit the Student & Family Resource Dashboard or the Faculty & Staff Dashboard to view these resources.  

Digital Libraries
The digital library platforms (listed below) to which some FSSD students have access include books that either mention or address sensitive topics, including gender identity and sexual orientation (LGBTQ). 

• Tennessee Electronic Library: The Tennessee Electronic Library is made possible through funding provided by the General Assembly of the State of Tennessee and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. TEL is administered by the Tennessee State Library and Archives.

• Epic Digital Library: An award-winning subscription service, providing access to thousands of books, videos, and quizzes from leading publishers.

• Overdrive: For students who have public library cards, their parents may sign them up for access to this free digital library through Overdrive (Libby or Sora). 

FSSD educators assign and discuss books and stories that are aligned with the Tennessee Academic Standards. Tennessee schools, by law (HB 0529), may not teach a sexual orientation curriculum or gender identity curriculum. However, books are available to students through the school library and on these online sites as part of students’ right to the voluntary exploration of age-appropriate material outside of the curriculum.