For the past two years, I have been fortunate to make a connection with the Council on Aging, providing some technology assistance for residents of Groton. Along with our district’s systems administrator, we had a small video highlight of one of our sessions featured on, “Senior Center Spotlight.” One of my favorite aspects of the video is at the end of the segment, a quick clip shows two people working together to solve a technology question. Just love seeing the trainers out of the way and two folks working together to solve a problem. Our portion of the show begins around 19:15. Read more…
Groton-Dunstable: End of Year Town Report 2
Over the past year, the educational technology department spearheaded improvements across the district aimed at enhancing communications, data management and continued support of the district’s technology infrastructure.
With feedback from parents and staff, the technology department developed a capable website, which along with our television show “Back to School,” acts as a showcase of the amazing things taking place within the Groton-Dunstable Regional School District. In addition, the technology department developed a custom, online platform to showcase student work through a customized, digital portfolio tool, which is available for all students. Read more…
First Attempt In Learning: FAIL
When did taking a risk or even failing become such a horrible thing at school? As educators, why do we not provide ample chances at “safe risks” for students to tackle, in the friendly confines of a school environment? I liken this opportunity to driver’s education, where taking risks, under the guidance of a trained instructor, is the exact time to test one’s skills and if need be, fail.
The excitement and passion of learning and growing lies on these fringes, which just happen to be when we are pushed toward failing, not feeling comfortable and content. We want to push and guide our students past these boundaries.
Why Change Your District’s Website?
It just so happens I was recently asked to give a short quote on why we re-designed our district and school websites. Below is my short response, which was included in the local paper:
“A major factor in changing the website was to offer a cleaner, yet more dynamic canvas on which we have to share students and staff highlights to our community. The new site was also built with phones and tablets and mind, providing mobile users with a sleek experience. Personally, I would love to see more student involvement on the website with student articles of school events, capturing photos and more1”
Opening Day, Technology State of the Union 2015
Below is a transcript for a recent talk I gave before the first day of school. There were some great speakers beforehand and it is truly awesome to be apart of a team this dedicated (and funny) to giving high-quality presentations. Still much to learn… Read more…