There are a few updates and improvements in store for the technology use in Morgan and Elda for the 09-10 school year. Some of the details are still being worked out, but here is what we know so far:
EasyTech:
EasyTech will have a new feature this fall. Students will now be able to save their progress through the interactive lessons! They will be able to 'bookmark' their spots and pick up where they left off in a lesson instead of starting all the way at the begining!
We will also be updating the Classroom and Media pacing calendars (list of lessons) for the EasyTech curriculum. Most of the changes are due to new/updated lessons replacing the outdated ones along with removing some of the review lessons in specific grade levels. The other changes deal with the 'Technology Mastery Grid' that will be implemented next year. If you are wondering what that is and think you missed something, read on! It's new! You haven't missed a thing!
Technology Mastery Grid:
The grid lists out specific skills for each software program and grade level. The district tech team wants to make sure that all students are learning software skills. It creates a base level skill set that each student should have by the end of each grade level. It will also help the teachers know what skills the students should have when they enter each grade level.
There are 4 levels students will work through from grades K-5:
Introduce
Learn
Proficient
Reinforce
Each level will have different skills associated with them depending on the software program and grade level. Software programs covered in the grid include: A/R, EasyTech, Word (grades 1-5), Power Point (grades 2-5), Excel (grades 3-5), and Web Browsing (grades 2-5).
Professional Development-August 17, 18 (Possibly 19th)
Ross will offer Technology Professional Development this summer to get ready for next year. The sessions will cover a variety of subjects for all grade levels. Keep an eye out for the 'save the date' email listing the available sessions.
Tips from the editor:
Keep and eye out for the Excel classes! There will be beginner and intermediate sessions. Excel is a fantastic program for teachers to stay organized at school and in personal lives. The skills will also come in handy for the Technology Mastery Grid for grades 3-5. :)
Also, keep in mind that your 'Technology Integration Specialist' will be out of commission from sometime in October until probably sometime in December/early January due to a new arrival! The summer sessions are the perfect opportunity to get all of your ducks in a row for tech use during the 09-10 school year!
As always, let me know if you have any questions!
Have a great summer!
