Educators, as a collective of teachers, paraeducators and administrators, face significant challenges with high school students using social media during instructional time. With social media access unblocked or lenient cell phone policies, we are losing precious minutes meant for learning. Even when a smartphone or device is out of sight, the cognitive hook for a digital distraction, luring a student away from the lesson, can take 23 minutes to recover. In short, we must protect instructional time. Protecting instructional time requires establishing clear boundaries with students, which may involve implementing or adopting new policies around 1:1 programs, filtering on the device, and more. This could further include guidelines for parental communication, especially in cases where parents encourage using social media to connect with their children. Read more…
Sample Post: A Smooth Transition: Helping Your Child Adjust to Middle School Life
Transitions to new offices, positions, and working with new colleagues (and much more!) are complex for everyone. Transitions can also be difficult for students moving from one of our two elementary schools to our regional middle school. With this in mind, I wanted to highlight our fifth-grade teacher team, a dynamic group of teachers who work tirelessly to support our students. I asked some of our teachers to share essential tips for parents as they help their children transition to middle school. Read more…
1:1 Programs Are No Longer Innovative; Were They Ever?
The once-promising initiative of 1:1 programs, funded by local taxpayers, state and federal grants, and bolstered by social media appeal, has become a mere checkbox for public schools. The original goal of adopting a 1:1 environment to enhance student academic effectiveness has faded, leaving a program that schools strive to attain and maintain without a clear purpose.
History and Evolution of the 1:1 Laptop Initiative in Public Schools
A Year in Review: Groton-Dunstable 2023 Report
In our continued pursuit of technological excellence and innovative learning environments, the Department of Technology & Digital Learning has embarked on another transformative journey over the past year, marked by strategic initiatives and comprehensive advancements across various educational settings. From refreshing technology at Florence Roche Elementary School and empowering educators through laptop life cycle replacements to fortifying cybersecurity measures and upgrading internet filtering systems, each initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering a secure, resilient, and technologically advanced district.
Read more…
Over $1 Million in Grants Secured for EdTech Advancements!
As I near my ninth year at GDRSD, it is remarkable (unbelievable, too!) that I have reached a significant milestone in my career as Director of Technology & Digital Learning. Through strategic efforts with my team, we have secured over $1 million in competitive grants, marking a pivotal moment in transforming educational landscapes within our district!
Read more…