Back to School!

The beginning of this school year was a different experience for me - for the first time in a long time, I didn't have my own classroom to prepare.  It was strange and exciting at the same time.  What is most exciting about my new position as a Technology Integration Specialist is that I have the opportunity to visit other teachers' classrooms to see all of the awesome things they are doing, and share with others!

Last week I spent time in several primary classrooms at Arrowhead, Broadwater, Highland, Eagle Cliffs and Beartooth Elementary schools.  I was so happy to be in the classrooms, meeting new students and helping the teachers with whatever they needed.  In Mrs. Risser's 1st grade classroom at Arrowhead, I loved all of the blank space (I can't help singing a little Taylor Swift whenever I say that) on her walls.  It showed me that she is very student centered, and she is waiting for her students to help her decorate the space with their artwork, writing and ideas.

While visiting Mrs. Niemeyer's 1st grade at Eagle Cliffs, I got to participate in an unplanned fire drill. Wahoo!  :)  I loved how she is organizing her classroom, giving students space to store their 1:1 iPads and other learning materials on shelves situated by each pod of desks.  This will save so much time by keeping all necessary supplies organized and close to each student.

I also love how Mrs. Niemeyer intentionally balances technology in her classroom with hands-on learning experiences.  It is important that students have opportunities to use tech in meaningful ways, but that this is balanced by traditional learning experiences.  Here, students practiced spelling their names with a tactile fine motor activity, tracing and building their names using glue and Fruit Loops.

I am thrilled to be able to visit classrooms and see the great things that are happening!  Please check back often to see photos of classes and examples of class projects that you can implement in your own classroom.  And remember, you can book me to come into your classroom by clicking the link at the top of this page.  Happy teaching and happy tech-ing!