Let’s Talk About: Learning First, Technology Second

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This week we started the TeachersFirst®️ summer book study. Our text this year is Learning First, Technology Second (ISTE, 2017) by Liz Kolb.  I first learned of Dr. Kolb and her work with instructional technology through my work with the ISTE Edtech Coaches PLN.  Dr. Kolb was the featured author in a session hosted by … read more »


Beyond the Oregon Trail – Using Simulations in the Classroom

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Do you remember playing The Oregon Trail game? For some students, it was the first opportunity to virtually experience the life of pioneers as they searched for a better life in Oregon. Players select from different options, including the traveler’s profile, date of departure to head west, money spent on goods, and more. Throughout the … read more »


International Polar Bear Day

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February 27 is International Polar Bear Day. This day offers an opportunity to pay attention to polar bears and the dangers they face due to climate warming. It is also an excellent way to engage students with real-world connections to animals, climate, environment, habitats, and more.  One way to engage students in learning is by … read more »


Get Involved In Digital Learning Day!

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 This year Digital Learning Day takes place on February 27! According to the Alliance for Excellent Education, “Digital Learning Day was started as a way to actively spread innovative practices and ensure that all youth have access to high-quality digital learning no matter where they live.” They define digital learning as “any instructional practice … read more »


10 Resources for Making Learning Inclusive for All Students

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December 2 is National Special Education Day. This event celebrates the December 2, 1975 signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by Gerald Ford. IDEA is the basis for Special Education law in the United States and serves as the foundation for giving all children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education.  … read more »


Tech Tool of the Month: Virtual Musical Instruments

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Did you know that April is Jazz Appreciation Month? Also happening on April 30th is International Jazz Day. What better way to celebrate than with a song! In honor of jazz and music, this month we are featuring a cool tech tool that offers you the opportunity to play music: Virtual Musical Instruments. Explore the … read more »


Last Minute Digital Learning Day No-Tech Resources…You Can Do This!

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It never fails! It is Digital Learning Day; you’ve planned your lessons and excitement is building for all of your well thought out activities implementing technology. You prepared carefully, making sure websites work, student passwords and logins are readily available, nothing is forgotten. Then what happens? The internet is down for the day, smart boards … read more »


How to Turn Your Hour of Code into an Hour of Excellence!

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Hour of Code™ celebrations take place during Computer Science Education Week, December 3-9, but now is the time to prepare for a successful event in your school or classroom. The Hour of Code™ is a nationwide initiative by Computer Science Education Week and Code.org to introduce millions of students to one hour of computer science and … read more »


Tech Tool of the Month: Dotstorming

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It has been almost 100 years since the 19th Amendment was signed, giving women the right to vote. Women’s Equality Day is celebrated on August 26th. This day celebrates this “winning vote” of 98 years ago. In honor of this day, we are highlighting a tech tool that you can use for voting in your … read more »


Celebrate Father’s Day With Gifts From the Heart

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“A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow” Unknown On June 17 we honor and celebrate our fathers. Because most students are out of school for the summer, they don’t always make a small gift to bring home as many do for Mother’s Day in May.  Many of us … read more »