(a)    There is a Maryland Technology Academy in the Department.

(b)    The purpose of the Academy is to:

(1)    Provide intensive learning opportunities for teachers in the State each year on how to use technology to significantly impact student learning; and

(2)    Promote the overall improvement of public schools in the State.

(c)    Under the direction and supervision of the Department, the Academy shall arrange for the conducting of 3- to 5-week summer sessions each year for elementary, middle, and high school teachers in the State.

(d)    The summer sessions shall utilize an intensive curriculum in technology that is structured in such a manner to require the participating teachers to:

(1)    Examine and discuss technological research and engage in practicing the use of technology in the classroom and school setting;

(2)    Participate in and critique demonstrations of the use of technology;

(3)    Prepare and present a technology-based project in an area of interest; and

(4)    Develop an understanding and knowledge of how to collect and analyze student data to determine effective uses of technology and how the use of technology impacts student learning.

(e)    The Academy shall organize the summer sessions on the basis of:

(1)    Creating participant teams of elementary, middle, and high school teachers as well as instructors from colleges of education; and

(2)    Utilizing instructors from institutions of higher education as well as teacher experts, national experts, and outside consultants.

(f)    The Academy shall provide opportunities for teachers, after their completion of a summer session, to continue to learn about the uses and impact of technology in the classroom through the establishment of appropriate conferences, study groups, distance-learning activities, and peer coaching sessions.

(g)    The Department shall establish guidelines for the application and selection of participants in the Academy and any other appropriate matter to implement the provisions of this subtitle.

(h)    Funds for the Academy shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Department.