MassCue 2017

I was thrilled to attend MassCUE (Massachusetts Computer Using Educators) this year at Gillette Stadium. It was two jam packed days of learning along with other inspiring educators where we discussed ways to enhance learning with technology.

The choices for keynote speakers, workshops, breakouts, exhibitors, and vendors all had me thinking of new and creative ideas to bring back to my teachers and students.

One session that was a new experience for me was using Google Expeditions. Students wearing a set of googles go on a virtual field trip to explore the world while the teacher leads them on the journey.

The keynote speakers always leave the audience wanting for more. One key component of all the speeches was using Innovation in our daily work with students. We were challenged to open the students' minds to new and bigger possibilities and engage students to become leaders in their own learning, by giving choices and encouragement.

Steve Guditus, Director of Educational Technology for my district was awarded a Path Finder award.

I was lucky enough to enjoy lunch with Karen Miller from DoInk, green screen app. We had a thoughtful conversation about the future of this marvelous app.

And of course I found lots and lots of FREE items to bring home.

FlipGrid Fever

Flipgrid fever is here!
Over the summer I won a year's subscription to FlipGrid and we have been having a lot of fun with it. On this video discussion board students are able to share their thoughts, reflections, and answer questions.

"Bring the back row to the front and engage all of your students. Together! Flipgrid helps all learners define their voices, share their voices, and respect the diverse voices of others. Empathy. That’s what it’s all about! Flipgrid has the most powerful, quick, and easy-to-use recorder in the industry"

Mrs. Ragan's class last week shared their own creative ideas for Halloween this year.
Visit their FlipGrid and even add to it. All posts are moderated.

Build A Jack O Lantern

Who doesn't love a Great Pumpkin design?
Boo! Guess Who?  Me! I love a great jack o lantern!
The month of October brings out our spooky and creative sides.
Using the template for Build a Jack-O-Lantern from Eric Curts that I found on Twitter, students have been creating their own personalized Jack-O-Lanterns.

Here is the collection from Mrs. Corliss' Third Grade Class.



Click in the slides below to view Mrs. Ragan's Second Grade Class


Here is the template:
Click on the slides below to view each original creation.




Teacher Tip:

To get your own copy click HERE. This link will force a copy to your own google drive.
Share your finished Jack O Latern in comments.

FlipGrid

Welcome to FlipGrid!
Over the summer I won a subscription to FlipGrid and have introduced many class to this engaging format of reflecting and sharing.
This week on Twitter I came across a Global Reading Project. People around the world were challenged to read one page from the book, Oh, the Places You'll Go! 
Click on the first picture below and listen to the story read aloud. It will automatically play after you click on the first square. Under each picture you will see where it is being read from. Be sure to look out for page 19.
 

September is Over!

The life of a Technology Integration Specialist in September is like a Talented Juggler.

September brought everyone back to school well rested and eager to learn.
New technology arrived, student and teacher accounts were created, spreadsheets shared, devices labeled, teachers trained, calendars updated, passwords created, students logged in to google, folders organized, digital safety discussed and so much more!

Take a peek into September 2017:

New Chromebooks for both schools.
Creating new accounts.
What is my password?

Organize Google Drive Folders
Create a Grade Level Folder and Share with teacher.

New J Touch TV by InFocus in Grade 5
I know that I can share my computer screen for our new science program.

Google Classroom is set up and ready for student assignments.

Learning Google Doc skills
Where is the Backspace?

Joining Science Class

There is a font named after me! Georgia!

Green Screen is waiting to create magic!

 And this video says it all: