The district theme this school year is #Learning4All. What three strategies did you learned about today during your Professional Learning Sessions you can implement to ensure all students reach their individual learning goals? What will #Learning4All look like in your classroom this year? In addition, respond to two discussions posted by a colleague. Review the rubric to ensure you have addressed all key components in your reflection.
300 Comments
Kelly James
8/13/2018 03:47:40 pm
During EdCamp today I learned numerous useful strategies. I learned how to more effectively use Google, for example, how to create a Master for assignments. How to best build relationships with students was wonderful. The information given was practical and applies directly to our student population. My last session of the day was the Fundamental Five. This will help me in my current position because I can suggest these strategies to teachers with whom I work.
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Lauren James
8/13/2018 03:55:51 pm
I did not mention how the data was a reflection of our particular set of students. I believe that is extremely important to understand that students in our district may have obstacles such as language barriers and poverty. We must use that knowledge to differentiate and utilize resources to increase their chances of success.
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Valerie
8/13/2018 04:09:37 pm
I agree we definitely need to know where are students are coming from. Low income students not only attend school during the day but many also are needing to work to help out with their own support as well as the children they may also already have. Providing them with as much support and encouragement will demonstrate that we care about them as human beings not just as teachers.
Jenifer Stephenson
8/13/2018 03:58:08 pm
I would love to hear more about what you learned in the effective use of google. The tweets I have seen from that session have made me interested in what was presented. I love to organize! I feel like there is probably a lot of organization that could be accomplished with google.
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8/13/2018 04:19:59 pm
I also would love to hear about the google strategies as well. Even coming from a background of technology I do not know every tip and trick that some others out there know. Would love to hear about them, and also some google classroom techniques.
BETHANN Hargrove
8/14/2018 08:03:04 am
I would love for you to show me what you learned. I think you do a great job helping social studies stay on track. I agree building relationships is key!
Pam J
8/13/2018 04:09:44 pm
I loved learning more about ways to use Google as well! I can see it being a great way to use technology in the classroom while building student confidence to know they are perfectly capable of using technology (other than their phones) in various aspects of their life.
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Abby Crawford
8/13/2018 04:19:11 pm
This is why I'm glad we keep the information from the sessions. I couldn't attend this one, and I'd like to learn more about how Google can make work easier.
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Jeremy VanWinkle
8/13/2018 04:21:00 pm
I learned a lot about Google too. It was great learnig something new about something so "well known"! I hear that Region 10 or Region 11 offers a workshop that goes really in depth with Google. Apparently you're a Google pro when it's all done. I might see if I can do that. I'd like to hear some of what you learned on relationship building.That is so important with today's students. Sounds like you have a great goal and you added to your tools to achieve it. :)
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Parker Bowman
8/13/2018 04:32:26 pm
I love any of the Google tools! I use them all the time and I can help you with any of them if you need it. I use Docs, Slides, Drive, and some others and they have made my job so much easier.
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Bart Beasley
8/13/2018 05:27:13 pm
The google session was very informative. I would like to hear more about what the concept of the fundamental five is during our PLC's this year.
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Cameron Hartson
8/13/2018 05:27:30 pm
Kelly, I thought you did a great job with the Reading Strategies, and would like to learn more about Sketch Notes maybe during PLC. Thanks for the session.
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Brandon
8/14/2018 08:08:33 am
I felt that the EdCamp yesterday was probably the best EdCamp in terms of meaningful knowledge given to help me as a teacher at CHS. I learned a few things such as how to much more effectively use Google. Such as, how to create a Master for assignments and in google slides. The session that I got the most out of was the session about developing relationships with at risk students. The leaders of this session made this very applicable to us as educators, and it reminded me of why we do what we do. The information that I got from this EdCamp was very easy to learn and better yet, very applicable with our student population. My last session of the day was over how to better use Canvas. The instructor broadened my knowledge in the use of Canvas and the different capabilities it has to enhance teaching. These sessions will help assist me in teaching this year, as I learned new strategies that will enhance my teaching.
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Lauren James
8/13/2018 03:51:21 pm
I learned how to create and utilize the Google Sites, specifically for my Digital Portfolio, I would also use the knowledge I learned today for my students to create and maintain a Writing Portfolio the entire year. Another strategy I learned to was how to embed outside links into my google slides. In the Fundamental Five session, I would utilize the Recognize and Reflect on all students. By acknowledging student effort and progress (no matter how little it may be) the student will more likely want to repeat it. I want to let my students know that I appreciate them and their efforts as well build relationships with them.
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Josh Cox
8/13/2018 04:02:43 pm
I too like using the google sites and all of the google apps. There are a lot of great tools to use for engaging students on a daily basis.
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Jackie Auger
8/13/2018 04:03:20 pm
I agree with you, the Google Sites course was very helpful. I'm going to use it for some marketing projects in my classroom.
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Jenifer Stephenson
8/13/2018 04:03:21 pm
The Fundamental Five presentation sounds like it was a very effective training to attend. Building relationships and acknowledging effort definitely goes a long way with the students in CISD, especially with the ones who like to pretend they don't care.
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Brandy Aylesbury
8/13/2018 04:06:10 pm
I love the idea of having your students keep a writing portfolio in a google site.
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Logan Sumpter
8/13/2018 04:10:23 pm
I couldn't help but recognize your comment about acknowledging students and their progress is very important, no matter how small it is. We often take small things for granted and let them go unnoticed. Giving constant praise/attention allows for the student to want to do it again.
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Courtney Gamage
8/13/2018 04:12:05 pm
Lauren, it seems like you have learned so much today! The Digital Portfolio, for you and your students, is a great way to brand yourself-to show off accomplishments, met goals, and effort. Something that is so neat about the student writing portfolios is that they will be able to see growth in their writing from year to year. Finally, the Fundamental Five really helped me in my first two years of teaching. It's an excellent resource for growing classroom management and instruction.
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Rachel Cecil
8/13/2018 04:19:24 pm
I think Google Sites will be a very powerful tool in connecting with one another, as well as with the students. It's really nice how all of our technology kind of fits in together to make everything innovative and easy to use for all. Google slides will be super helpful for visuals and presentations students might have missed.
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Jenifer Stephenson
8/13/2018 03:55:20 pm
In EdCamp today I attended majority tech based courses. Throughout the day I was introduced to many apps, however, these three stood out the most to me; Nearpod, Go Formative, and Merge cubes. Each of these platforms/strategies are great ways to create lessons that are highly interactive to keep students involved and accountable during the lesson. I personally liked NearPod the best as it seemed to integrate all the best portions of some of the other tech platforms I was introduced to today and put them all in one application. For example, with NearPod I can insert 3D images into the lesson that are similar to the images with Merge Cube but appear more sophisticated for the high school level as well as easier to utilize. NearPod will allow me to create lessons that not only make the content more interactive but does so in a way that will be amenable to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners. Learning for all in my classroom will look like lessons that incorporate multiple methods of learning to ensure all learning types are being addressed. Also, lessons that incorporate different types of formative assessments to identify what RTI will be adequate in order to keep students from falling behind.
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Kenneth Marrs
8/13/2018 04:00:22 pm
NearPod is amazing!! Also, if our iPads support Notability, it is amazing!! Students are able to open up and type over a PDF and submit straight to Google Drive from the App. It also allows students to create a password protected folder within the app so the work they do can be saved, and isn't accessible to other users.
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Marcus Bustos
8/13/2018 04:02:49 pm
Jen, it never ceases to amaze me how dedicated you are to our students. I'm glad that you were able to find these new tools and hopefully you'll be able to show them to me some day! I think that you've really found some great tools to implement an environment where learning really is for all and I hope it goes well.
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Josh Cox
8/13/2018 04:03:49 pm
Nearpod sounds like a great tool to use to get information to students in an engaging and effective way. I will have to look more into that technology and take training on that in the future.
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Brandy Aylesbuy
8/13/2018 04:07:21 pm
Nearpod sounds like an excellent resource. I'm hoping there will be more sessions on this subject in the future.
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Alison Preuninger
8/13/2018 04:09:12 pm
I need to learn how to use NearPod. Maybe you could share what you learned in a future PLC meeting. I like trying new things that will help all students learn better.
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Tracy Bose
8/13/2018 04:12:53 pm
You may have to do some training for those of us that were unable to get into the class. Sounds very interesting. Would like to learn more about it.
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Perla Prado
8/13/2018 04:20:24 pm
Nearpod was amazing! I really enjoyed that session. I cannot wait till I implement these tools in my classroom. My visual students will surely enjoy visual reality.
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Jackie Flowers
8/13/2018 04:29:36 pm
Like I said, you will have to share with me what you learned or how you think you would incorporate how you will use Nearpod!
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Karen Fimbrez
8/13/2018 04:52:49 pm
Wow! Jenifer You sold me on Nearpod, I am going to check it out and see how I can use it in my classroom too!
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Cameron Hartson
8/13/2018 05:24:53 pm
Jen, I would love to learn more about NearPod, and your thoughts on implementing it's use in OnRamps.
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Bart Beasley
8/13/2018 05:28:30 pm
Nearpod is something I hear a lot about but have never seen it used. Hopefully more sessions will be offered where we can learn about this more in-depth.
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Jackie Auger
8/13/2018 03:55:29 pm
The courses we learned today were very informative. In the Canvas training I learned how I could create quizzes, discussions and how to allow students to submit lessons. Last year my students were selecting my links, downloading them and then emailing them back to me. Now I have a better understanding for how they can submit assignments. In the Google site class, I learned how to make a custom website and add pages. The third strategy I learned today is how to better implement Achieve 3000 in the career and technology classroom.
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Lauren James
8/13/2018 03:58:19 pm
It is very important to understand how Canvas works because it is where much of our instruction is held in CISD. I, too, need to learn more about the features so that I can do more than the basic use and integrate it into my classroom.
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Kelly James
8/13/2018 04:01:36 pm
I love your bitmoji and Snapchat ideas. I also feel like students overuse PowerPoint. They, like adults, sometimes find it tough to get outside their comfort zones with technology. So, as educators, the more familiar we are with things the more secure and interested they will become.
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Kenneth Marrs
8/13/2018 04:02:43 pm
The Easy Grader in Canvas is great! I, too, once had work emailed to me and it was a pain to manage. I then developed a system with Google Docs (Prior to Google Classroom) that worked well. However, the grading ability in Canvas is a wonderful tool.
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Julie Halfaker
8/13/2018 04:07:05 pm
It is definitely helpful to see the power of Canvas. I am new to Castleberry, meaning I am new to Canvas. My old school used Google Classroom, though, so I have never taught without an online learning management system. I am so spoiled by having a LMS and think that I would have a very difficult time ever teaching without one. In one of my sessions, they reminded us about the way that Canvas is linked to Skyward now, which is exciting too.
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BeaAnn Brown
8/13/2018 04:20:06 pm
I LOVE Canvas for the things you mentioned in your comment. It can be very beneficial when we know how to use it. I also learned so much on how to better utilize Achieve 3000. I can't wait to start searching for articles.
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Elizabeth Reyna
8/13/2018 04:26:20 pm
I LOVE Canvas! It was such a huge help especially when I was gone for a convention! Being able to have somewhere for 160 essays to go made for it so much easier to manage when I came back. I didn't think I would need it in the choir classroom but it made life easier even when it came to uploading recording or notes for my students to refer to outside of choir class! I am certainly going to find more ways to use in my class this coming year. My problem was I was not consistent with using it but with many other classes it is part of your daily routine!
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Aaron Kelly
8/13/2018 04:30:28 pm
What kind of things do you think you will assign on Google classroom? I always thought about using google classroom in my class but was never sure what would be the ideal lesson for google classroom.
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Julie Tarter
8/13/2018 04:33:45 pm
I love the idea of using Snapchat and bitmojis in the classroom. I don't know a lot about either of them, but plan to learn more.
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Kathe Syke
8/13/2018 04:38:48 pm
It sounds like you had a great day of learning! Thanks for sharing all the things you learned. #lifelonglearners
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Karen Fimbrez
8/13/2018 04:49:13 pm
Hi Jackie,
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Lori Farney
8/13/2018 06:17:39 pm
You will find Canvas very easy to work with, and it is super easy to embed your google documents into your canvas site, preventing students from having to go back and forth between sites. Its really a great way to manage a class.
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BETHANN Hargrove
8/14/2018 08:09:55 am
I would love for you to show me how to incorporate Snap chat in the classroom. I do like Canvas because it allows a streamline of all information you do in class and helps students know what they are responsible for.
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Kenneth Marrs
8/13/2018 03:55:43 pm
Mrs. Wittsche from Region XI did a great job covering our Chapter 37 training. It is always helpful to be reminded of the "do's" and "dont's" in order to maintain integrity and compliance when completing the many tasks we are given. Understanding the law assists administrators to put in perspective the intended outcome of each of our encounters. Mrs. Wittsche's knowledge of the subject-matter and ease of presentation allowed for open discussion regarding issues all CDC's may face throughout the school year.
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Kelly James
8/13/2018 03:58:32 pm
I found your session to be very useful. Wonderful things for new teachers to know about how to successfully deal with our students. And great reminders for returning staff.
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Alison Preuninger
8/13/2018 04:06:55 pm
Letting students know that you care is super important. Often underachievers will work more for you if they know you care.
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Nadine Mihalicz
8/13/2018 04:11:26 pm
I also enjoyed your session. It was very well planned, informative and practical. The sincerity with which you and Ms. Burton presented was a breath of fresh air. It is clear that your strategies have been tried and tested. I appreciate the collaborative nature of your session.
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Angela Lee
8/13/2018 04:17:18 pm
Your session was my favorite. I am looking forward to a great year of positive relationships and connection building!!
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Kerry Martinez
8/13/2018 04:23:05 pm
Sounds like a great day of learning. I am glad you had a good experience presenting.
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BeaAnn Brown
8/13/2018 04:24:19 pm
Thank you to you and Cameron for reminding me how important building those relationships with my students is. The activities you did were fantastic and kept everyone involved in the session. I will make sure to include a getting to know you activity next week.
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Elijah Glenn
8/13/2018 04:35:46 pm
Kenneth thank you for your response. I appreciate you speaking on integrity and compliance. It is disappointing that is necessary to explain to adults the need for them to honest and forthright. Great job of being bold and presenting to peers. It can some times be hectic. Hopefully, one day I get to hear and see your presentation.
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Faith Turner
8/13/2018 04:39:36 pm
Congrats on your first presentation. This was my second presentation and I too felt like it went really well. My presentation was over special education for the general education teachers. Have a great school year.
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Ronie Rosales
8/13/2018 03:56:32 pm
Great strategies overall from today's professional learning sessions, but the ones that I will implement to ensure that all my students reach their individual learning goals, stem from both The Bridge in Action and the Transfer kits. In the sessions we were introduced to the many resources I can use in my classroom from the website www.teachingforbiliteracy.com. Provided great insight on how to implement the "Bridge", the transfer and the Metalinguistic Analysis in providing #Learning4All.
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Aaron Kelly
8/13/2018 04:27:36 pm
What type of activities would you use for The Bridge in Action? I have not heard of this program and was curious to see how it worked.
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Elijah Glenn
8/13/2018 04:37:47 pm
Can you provide more insight on The Bridge in Action and the Transfer kits. I've never heard of this before. Can you at least send me a link to follow up on it?
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Marcus Bustos
8/13/2018 03:56:43 pm
Today in EdCamp I learned a few things. First, I learned how to more fully utilize twitter to build my brand and dispense resources for my students. Then, I learned basic techniques to help center students who may suffer from anxiety or depression when things get rough. Finally, I learned more about the ins and outs of Achieve3000 in order to help grow students' lexile scores and develop a reading culture in my classes. I want to develop more equity in my classes this year. Often it feels like there are just leagues of difference in ability and I want to narrow that gap between my higher and lower performers. That would be my goal as far as learning for all.
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Jackie AUger
8/13/2018 04:01:43 pm
I agree with you about the Achieve3000 course. It was very insightful to learn how we can better use the resource in our classroom to help our students build their lexile levels.
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Julie Halfaker
8/13/2018 04:03:43 pm
I also really enjoyed the Achieve 3000 session. I'm glad that the district is making the investment in a program that will help the students work on their literacy skills.
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I think you should have started your post by saying you learned some great things because the strategies you blogged about are that, great! Twitter branding isn't just for students it can help you build networks while connecting with your students. This, in turn, breaks down the brick and mortar of our classroom walls. It "tricks" students into learning 24/7. Super neat. right?
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Paul Raska
8/13/2018 04:20:24 pm
I agree with Marty whole heartily. Marty you are not in my PLC but I would love to use you as a resource.
Angela Lee
8/13/2018 04:15:05 pm
I love that you are going to focus on equity between classes. I definitely feel like I see huge gaps in classes, as well. This could be a great future pd training.
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Valerie
8/13/2018 04:16:38 pm
I agree that Achieve 3000 is an informative site that students can read and study assigned subjects on their own. Anxiety, fear of speaking in front of class is diminished and students can read and complete their activities at their own pace. Failure is minimal and success is the goal.
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Madeleine Fimbrez
8/13/2018 04:31:17 pm
I would love to learn more about how to address and work with students who suffer from anxiety or depression. Statistically, students who are low income tend to be affected by mental issues such as these more often. With CISD being majority low income students, this seems like a very productive and useful course to have attended
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Kerry Martinez
8/13/2018 04:31:29 pm
Sounds like I needed to attend the Achieve3000 class. I am totally lost with Achieve and lexile and all that stuff. I think I may need to get out of my comfort zone to branch out.
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Gavin Watson
8/13/2018 04:31:54 pm
I need to get better at Twitter too Marcus. Especially, when it comes to tweeting out their work to give them more opportunity to see success. I have to develop some sort of branding template so all student work tweets will be uniform.
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Misti Menchaca
8/13/2018 04:46:06 pm
I used Achieve 3000 for the first time last year for my leadership class. I really could have used this class last year to show me the ins and outs. It is definitely a great resource to help with the development of reading skills.
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Josh Cox
8/13/2018 04:00:31 pm
Today in our edcamp sessions I learned about how to engage students in reading for social studies by using relevant articles and note taking strategies. I also discovered how to build relationships with troubled students through get to know you activities. Another interesting thing that I learned was how to take virtual field trips through discovery streaming. This will allow students to be able to have experiences outside the classroom without actually leaving the classroom!
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i believe you have embodied the spirit of this EdCamp with your post. Thank you for sharing with everyone your ideas on how to improve your social studies classroom. I agree with relevant articles and note taking can be great things in a classroom. In today's world, education has put such a negative stigma on these two things. I hope today you have found techniques to raise these up on the SAMR model. I trust that you did because all the presenters were great!
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Jennifer Scholebo
8/13/2018 04:14:24 pm
What wonderful strategies you learned today! Good luck implementing them in the classroom.
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Elizabeth Reyna
8/13/2018 04:20:43 pm
Something I was not great at doing was really building relationships with my students. I was so busy making sure we got everything done that needed to be done that I forgot about the people on the other side! Virtual field trips are a great thing for students, especially with the students we work with who, most of them, have never been outside of River Oaks! If want you can even use twitter or create a Social Studies Instagram page where you can post pictures of places you may have been or even places you would like to go! I went to Oxford, England for a conducting program this summer and made it a point to post pictures of my time there so my choir program could see where music has taken me and the history of music in England!
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Jennifer Haden
8/13/2018 04:28:52 pm
I love the virtual field trips! Maybe we can do a joint trip with band and choir and go to the Sydney Opera House! You are so good at building relationships with your kids, and they love you! You are a fabulous choir teacher and I'm so looking forward to working with you this year!
Jeria Corbitt
8/13/2018 04:21:12 pm
I am horrible about note taking this sounds like it would have been a good class for me. If I can learn I can then better teach my students. We use getting to know you activities frequently and they do tend to help. I often try to pair students with common interests to find partners with other interests. In the VR lab did you have trouble navigating the apps? What advice would you give for teachers trying this fun activity?
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Morgan Piasecki
8/13/2018 04:31:12 pm
I would love to hear about the activities to build relationships! Getting to know our troubled students is critical!
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Kathe Syke
8/13/2018 04:36:18 pm
I love the idea of virtual field trips! I want to learn more about these. We don't have many opportunities to take all of them on a trip, but doing something virtually would be fun!
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Mary Evans
8/13/2018 04:37:10 pm
Wow! VR field trips could be super insightful on how our students view history! This is also a great tool to help get students interested in places they've never been. These types of activities are super engaging and have the potential to build rapport with your students and excited for class!
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Amanda Romero
8/13/2018 04:39:48 pm
Sounds like a really good use of your time. Virtual field trips can be an amazing way to give our kids experiences that they would not otherwise have.
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Ian Story
8/13/2018 08:03:08 pm
I think the Virtual Field trips is a great way to show these kids that the hard work their doing can be used in many places around the world and that they don't have to stay in River Oaks their whole life.
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Julie Halfaker
8/13/2018 04:01:12 pm
At the EdCamp today, I attended a session on using online formative assessments and learned about several tools that I had not previously used, and I also went to a session on Achieve 3000. Those two sessions produced my biggest “takeaways.”
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Elizabeth L. Branham
8/13/2018 04:10:00 pm
I'm also excited about Achieve 3000! I love that you can choose the option to have Spanish or English for students who are newcomers. I was surprised at how many accommodations were available for my students. I can't wait to see the improvement in reading levels throughout the year.
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Tim Gillespie
8/13/2018 04:13:40 pm
I'm really excited about EdPuzzle too, I was talking to some of the other coaches about ways to implement some learning on that platform in the off season.
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Paul Raska
8/13/2018 04:17:58 pm
Great stuff. Sounds like you had a productive day. Padlet sounds really interesting. I will have to check that out next time.
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Charles James
8/13/2018 04:19:30 pm
I really like using EdPuzzle. I've used it in class and students really liked it.
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Christopher Keefer
8/13/2018 04:22:36 pm
Achieve 3000 is a tremendous asset for our school. The students are allowed to read at their own level, and to build up their ability to read.
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Stacy Zachary
8/13/2018 04:23:29 pm
I too really enjoyed EdPuzzle. I feel this is such a useful tool in allowing differentiated instruction in students that move different paces. Plus, they already have so much content right at your finger tips to get you started.
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Jennifer Haden
8/13/2018 04:25:07 pm
Padlet is so fun! The kids love it. Anything you can do that's not pen and paper engages the kids and makes them want to be there. I'm also curious about your Achieve 3000 class. Is there anything within the program that would motivate the kids to read more, or are all of the rewards done by the teacher?
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Alyssa Bruns
8/13/2018 04:25:13 pm
I love the idea of using Padlet for a review session! I think it could be really beneficial for students as they can access it from anywhere! I also like how you would use EdPuzzle! A lot of times, our students will fast forward in order to finish their work as soon as possible. By adding questions, it would hold students accountable for their own learning!
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Bill
9/12/2018 07:45:19 am
Any time a student is motivated by technology to get a little ahead is a good thing. Accountability by adding questions is a good idea.
Bill Svehlak
8/13/2018 04:02:07 pm
This has been a productive day, learning how best to use Achieve 3000 to help my students improve their lexile levels and gain the confidence they need to succeed in academic life is going to give me real focus this school year. The session K. Kelsoe had on Google sites will help me guide students with their student portfolios this year. I really think I will use the portfolios for daily reflections. I want to see progress, so I will have at least one continuous activity that helps students see how they have improved from the beginning of the year to the end. There were also really good resources in A. Offenbaker's session where I learned of sites that will be helpful for assessment. Overall, I think the Learning4all initiative is going to help all students get the support they need.
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Nadine Mihalicz
8/13/2018 04:08:31 pm
I agree that the Achieve 3000 session was invaluable. I look forward to speakibng with you about the portfolios. I believe that this plays right into the Learning4All plan.
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Bill
9/12/2018 07:47:09 am
I'm certainly more focused now that I have clarification on many questions I had about Achieve. I will be utilizing the program weekly, having students fully understanding Lexile level and career potential.
Logan Sumpter
8/13/2018 04:12:47 pm
I think having students work on portfolios as a young age will better prepare them in the future for when they have to use resumes to find jobs. I feel that the future resume will consist of having an online portfolio, so having the students get a head-start on that is tremendous.
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Jeria Corbitt
8/13/2018 04:17:52 pm
I think this is wonderful. Did this session allow you to understand the complexities of Achieve 3000 enough where you can use it frequently in your classroom? Can you forsee any issues that might arise using this program. Portfolios are a wonderful way to track progress. I have used them for many years now. What are some of your ideas for a continuous activities you would like to try? This definitely was a great ed camp session.
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Jairo Salazar
8/13/2018 04:26:45 pm
The use of Achieve3000 can in a way flip the classroom and hopefully have a positive impact on the student's literacy skills. If I taught a lesson using this program, I would try to leave time for a bell ringer that would connect my lesson to the activity.
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8/13/2018 04:02:50 pm
I can proudly say that today's EdCamp was a huge success for me. I feel like I took away so much as an educator that applies to me and my classroom. Three of the big take-away strategies from this event are effective data reflecting, AR/VR teaching tools, and how to better reach at risk students. All of these clear represent what I want to do in my classroom.
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Elizabeth L. Branham
8/13/2018 04:06:36 pm
I like that you said at-risk students aren't "bad kids" - they just come from less than ideal situations. What a great reminder! I'll definitely check this book out.
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Marcus Bustos
8/13/2018 04:07:48 pm
Halbert! I'm really glad that you found today to be fruitful! The idea of keeping the students responsible for their own data is definitely interesting and I'll have to get you to show me what strategies you've learned in order to do this. Also, thanks for the recommendation of "The Power of Positive Relationships." I'll have to check it out.
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8/13/2018 04:11:32 pm
I was amazed at the tools available through VR / AR. I can definitely see the utility in the science field. There is such a wealth of activities available for students to get excited about every aspect of science with these new digital tools. I never would have imagined giving students the ability to traverse the globe, dive deep into the ocean, or even travel back in time. Simply amazing!
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Tim Gillespie
8/13/2018 04:17:47 pm
I agree that we don't have "bad kids", but due to a lack of equity they can be viewed that way from the outside. I felt like a lot of information today will go a long way in helping our kids be successful after high school in higher education and will dispel those negative misconceptions.
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Jason Brown
8/13/2018 04:18:10 pm
The portion of your EDCamp experience dealing with effective data reflection is interesting. I agree that it is important for teachers also. Tracking that data is a difficult task. I would like to hear some of the ways that you will use in your classroom to track that data and make it useful for your class.
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Lauren Padilla
8/13/2018 04:20:18 pm
Marty - Is "the Power of Positive Relationships" a book? I want to check out what sounds to be a good and relevant resource for us!
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Trissa Hasley
8/13/2018 04:26:26 pm
I am very interested in the "Augmented Reality / Virtual Reality session" that you are referencing. I believe that if we use the technology they already enjoy using for leisure, we could really get them engaged.
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Leigh Kruse-Paine
8/13/2018 04:34:01 pm
I would love to hear more about "The Power of Positive Relationships" and the seven strategies to build positive relationships. I love the concept of being the CEO of the classroom.
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Valerie Graham
8/13/2018 04:03:13 pm
Learned how important reading, writing, creating a cultural and appealing environment to learn for my students. Learned what I can do for students dealing with anxiety, depression and to build, instill some coping mechanisms for them to solve these issues themselves.
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Katherine Monzon
8/13/2018 04:16:51 pm
Yes, I agree reading and writing are important through all content areas, regardless of whether it is an elective or core class. Definitely had some great sessions today to support that.
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Faith Turner
8/13/2018 04:32:07 pm
I would love to hear what you learned from the dealing with anxiety session. I really wish I could have made that session and I know how great you are with building relationships. I am sure that those strategies will enhance your relationships even more.
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Morgan Piasecki
8/13/2018 04:32:13 pm
I would love to hear about the unique coping strategies you learned about today.
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Jairo Salazar
8/13/2018 04:32:44 pm
As an advocate for our students and by teaching for all, we have to care of our student holistically, both physically and mentally. I applaud that you took the session, where teachers are introduced to skills that are usually gained through our "with-it-ness" and experience teaching.
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Elizabeth L. Branham
8/13/2018 04:04:12 pm
Three strategies I learned today during our sessions that I plan to implement are: formal assessments using Quizizz, video clips with embedded questions in Spiral, and #booksnaps.
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Courtney Gamage
8/13/2018 04:16:32 pm
Elizabeth, I am so thrilled about your excitement for BookSnaps. It's such a great way to provide student choice and voice in their writing, thinking, and reflecting.
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Emalee Mahand
8/13/2018 04:23:22 pm
I can't wait to hear about #booksnaps! It will be so fun to use in our ELA classes!
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Alyssa Bruns
8/13/2018 04:31:06 pm
I agree with you about students using more effort when competition is involved! I loved using Kahoot but Quizizz is definitely better for students who are older. I'd love to learn more about #booksnaps! As a reading teacher, I feel like this would be something great to use in my classroom. Middle school students can be hesitant to like reading so I think it could be really beneficial! Thank you for the link to Tara Martin's guide!
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Amanda Romero
8/13/2018 04:37:10 pm
I love using quizizz too! Its so much better than kahoot! I love that you can see student data, and that you can spiral it.
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8/13/2018 04:04:22 pm
"The productive use of language, and especially writing, is a valuable tool for learning for ALL students in ALL subjects at all ages" (John S. Mayher, emphasis mine). In #writing2learn, I learned that writing tasks are easier to come up with than I originally thought, and when they are intentionally planned, they can tell us so much about each of our students and where they are at in their learning progress. #learning4all will look like in my classroom this year will be to use The Fundamental Five, #cisdfun5, to enhance my teaching weaknesses as well as my strengths. Specifically, first Framing the Lesson will help me provide the original intent in student-friendly language that will benefit me on focusing the lesson and help students with visual cues and ongoing reminders. Second, Leveled Chart Questions will help in this process for focusing on rigor. And finally, Working in the Power Zone will allow for me to take me strengths of recognizing and reinforcing student behavior to a new level where it's more frequent, more specific, more geared to the goal of reaching every student, every class period. Some of the great resources I gained today about writing critically is going to change the way I give feedback to my students as I expect to see more thinking from them.
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Jason Brown
8/13/2018 04:23:49 pm
Stellar reflection Stacy! I was wanting to attend this class (#writing2learn) but it was full I believe. Being able to read your reflection, was informative as it allowed me to gain important insight to what was offered. I too feel like the writing task is daunting, especially to our students and coming up with prompts and the like is often even difficult for some teachers. Intentionally planning them and getting that useful information about our students is such a great and wonderful idea.It is great to be able to see their learning grow.
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Robert Webb
8/13/2018 04:29:05 pm
I am a huge fan of the Fundamental 5 by Sean Cain and Dr. Mike Laird. I had the pleasure of being trained directly by Mr. Sean Cain to be a trainer of trainers in Snyder ISD. I think that when you get all 5 elements working in your classroom consistently you will be surprised at the results in critical thinking and problem solving you will see in your students.
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8/13/2018 04:04:29 pm
Another thing I learned today that will help all my students is how to use padlet and twitter for formative assessments. I know most of my students tweet so this will be a good way to let them use technology they are already familiar with in a more educational manner.
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Perla Prado
8/13/2018 04:15:33 pm
I am always looking for different ways to get my students to learn vocabulary. In what session can would I find the site? I have tried padlet before and I agree it is a great way to give formative assessments and plan to use it as well this year.
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Andreya Raska
8/13/2018 04:18:30 pm
That computer program sounds cool! Monitoring kids' progress is a great way to ensure that we're focusing on learning for all. If we're constantly aware of how they're doing, it's easier to keep them from falling behind.
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Trissa Hasley
8/13/2018 04:29:17 pm
I enjoyed using Padlet today as well. It looks like it would be a great tool for class discussion. We could easily see misconceptions and use technology as a way to get kids comfortable sharing with the class.
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Kristopher Shofner
8/14/2018 08:38:03 am
You will have to show me how to use assessment within Twitter! I was unaware that was even a possibility. I do love using what students are familiar with to reach them.
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Brandy Aylesbury
8/13/2018 04:04:36 pm
The three strategies I learned today were how to create discussions, assignments and quizzes in Canvas, how to use Achieve 3000 and the benefits of using the program, and ideas for how students can use google sites to make products. The fact that students can retake quizzes in Canvas supports individual learning goals. You could also give choices in assignments. When a student has choices of how to show what they are learning, they are more vested and less afraid of failure. Achieve 3000 by nature is differentiated based on reading levels and sets individual goals based on a pre-assessment. I especially love how Achieve 3000 gives students multiple tools they can use such as highlighters and a vocabulary bank. Google sites allows students to creatively choose how they would like to represent products they have made either collaboratively or independently. I learned that I can create my own posters and newsletters by using Canva.com. I also learned about Booksnaps. Students can create book snaps by using an array of applications such as snapchat, seesaw, google drawing, Bitmoji, etc. I believe when you find engaging ways for students to show what they learned, learning occurs. I really love the discussion application available in Canvas.
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Pam Jackson
8/13/2018 04:13:54 pm
Canvas is an awesome platform that allows students to work at their own pace while adding that critical technology component to the classroom. It also helps prepare them for college and careers that use various platforms to turn in work/assignments. I love Canvas!
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Brian Curneal
8/13/2018 04:04:42 pm
Today, I learned about how to use VR, AR, how to use GreenScreen, and about how to calm down students that feel anxieties. Most of my students that I will be working with have anxieties, so the strategies learned today will help me in calming them down and getting them back on task.
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Emalee Mahand
8/13/2018 04:19:23 pm
I would love to learn more about how I could use VR in my ELA class. It sounds extremely engaging and fun!
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Christina Michelle Sutton
8/13/2018 04:36:43 pm
Hey Partner Teacher! You are going to have to share with me about the anxiety and the green screens. Sounds like they could have both been beneficial and fun.
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Madeleine Fimbrez
8/13/2018 04:37:03 pm
I would love to learn how to use VR and AR in the classroom! Talk about innovation! I wouldn't even know how to begin on implementing this. Can you talk a little more about that?
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Misti Menchaca
8/13/2018 04:42:17 pm
I too and super excited to see how I can use VR and AR's in the PE classroom. I really think that your kids will enjoy using these tools. I would love to learn how to use a green screen.
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8/13/2018 04:05:27 pm
I learned how to use Google Drive to create web pages for news letters, professional portfolios and anything else I might need. Since all students in CISD have Google accounts, I can also have students create pages in order to present projects and other assignments for class.
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Melissa Smith
8/13/2018 04:57:49 pm
I loved getting to use flipgrid today, too! Your 30-second reflection idea is great! I thought it would be fun to have the kids create a flipgrid to introduce themselves to me at the beginning of the year.
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Courtney Gamage
8/13/2018 04:05:58 pm
The #Learning4All tag is poignant for the 2018-2019 school year. Teachers are bombarded in the media for not using 21st century tools to engage and transform student thinking and learning. Today, our EdCamp sessions have proven that teachers at CISD have the knowledge and tools to shape and build students for 21st century networking, careers, and success. Three vital technology strategies that I learned about today are Nearpod, Twitter, and BookSnaps. According to an article on Edutopia, (https://www.edutopia.org/blog/apps-transform-teaching-personalize-learning-ann-feldmann), Nearpod is a digital tool that allows teachers to incorporate interactive formative assessments in an engaging and fun way. I am so excited about using this in my classroom for warm-ups, quizzes, checking for background knowledge, homework assignments, and several other ways. Twitter will also be vital for networking with educators and leaders for gaining feedback and ideas for lesson planning. Twitter is also a great way to brand/form the image of CISD. Finally, BookSnaps is an excellent way to replace traditional paper/pencil annotations with 21st century digital tools. Students deserve the very best from their teachers. In order to provide the best, teachers must be up to date with current trends, tools, and strategies that bring the #Learning4All tag a reality.
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Leo Vasquez
8/13/2018 08:15:49 pm
I agree Courtney. We have to stay as up to date as possible. We must become used to innovating as much as possible. With all of the new updates we learned about today, I too am also excited about integrating Twitter more in the classroom to showcase all that is happening at CISD.
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Nadine Mihalicz
8/13/2018 04:06:21 pm
I tried to take away something from each workshop today.
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Robert Webb
8/13/2018 04:28:02 pm
I love your quote from John Maxwell, it reminds me of a quote from Rita Pearson, (you can watch her on Ted Talks), Mrs. Pearson stated: "that kids don't learn from people they don't like". I believe relationships are the foundation of which education is built.
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Kallye Dunavant
8/13/2018 04:06:49 pm
Today's EDCamp was extremely helpful and informative. All of the courses that I attended today extended my knowledge in a positive way. I participated in training's on Canvas, eSped and Case management. The Case Management training was the most valuable training for me today because I am a new inclusion teacher to the district and it was important for me to know what is expected me for each students that I care for.
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Kristopher Shofner
8/13/2018 04:19:36 pm
Looking forward to how you will be able to help our kids. I am excited that you have even more tools at your disposal. The kids need someone amazing like you to gain a better understanding. I am glad you will be ready!
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Jesse Reyes
8/13/2018 04:07:06 pm
Today, a plethora of tech-oriented tools were given to educators. I am amazed at the evolution of the classic Powerpoint slide into interactive tools like Sway and Nearpod. The development of creative elements that students can take advantage of to improve their learning strategies is overwhelming. And when students engage with these new techniques, the critical thinking skills and emotional attachment to new learning is simply amazing. Teachers can take older materials, update them with interactive tools, or even give students the collaborative environment to create and build lasting knowledge and empower the young mind to desire a thirst for knowledge.
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yolanda beasley
8/14/2018 08:14:00 am
Jesse, I agree...the ability to present and make it interactive is greatness.
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Logan Sumpter
8/13/2018 04:08:00 pm
I learned numerous strategies and resources that I can utilize in my classroom. During my canvas course, I learned how to be able to embed documents into assignments so that students can efficiently complete certain assignments. I also learned how to use the Positive Learning platform for my ELL learners. We also talked about how we could implement this strategy in and out of the classroom, in accordance with the curriculum.
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Angela Lee
8/13/2018 04:08:09 pm
Today’s professional development has been very beneficial. There have been several strategies discussed today that will be helpful in my classroom to implement that will improve learning for all.
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Leo Vasquez
8/13/2018 08:18:23 pm
Absolutely! Positive relationships are worth everything in our environment. Without it, we can not reach every one of our students equally. I am also looking forward to this school year.
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Lauren Padilla
8/13/2018 04:08:38 pm
I learned a lot during EdCamp today. First, I was given a more in-depth look at how to fully utilize Canvas for my choral students. I want to experiment this year with individual student audio/video recording to help assess individual student growth and learning. In my second session, we discussed the effects of depression and anxiety in our students, and how to help individual students by recognizing their needs, as well as some tips for maintenance and prevention of anxiety and depression symptoms. Mental health is important, and so is positive mental health discussion! The last session of my day focused on department alignment and laying out specific personal and program goals for the Castleberry choir programs. We also discussed effective ways to monitor and measure student progress throughout the year in our respective disciplines.
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George
8/13/2018 04:08:50 pm
Incredible amount of Special Education teamwork that will help our students reach their best.
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Austin Savage
8/13/2018 04:09:03 pm
Today I learned how to use Canvas, and I received an introduction to using other types of technology.
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Jesse Reyes
8/13/2018 04:17:11 pm
CANVAS is a fantastic LMS, that makes every effort you make worthwhile, and simplifies the learning process for our students. I absolutely love the tool, and I can't wait to work with you , and everyone else in the CHS Math dept. to develop some amazing lessons for our students.
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Andreya Raska
8/13/2018 04:19:41 pm
Canvas is going to be your best friend! It's a lot of work to set up in the beginning, but once you have it set, it's an awesome resource!
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Chanel Sneed
8/13/2018 04:09:49 pm
I still feel like I need more PD on Canvas and maybe a bit more on Achieve 3000. During the caseload management classes, I wish I could have been a little bit more productive. Over all the classes were beneficial though.
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Abby Crawford
8/13/2018 04:09:54 pm
The receptiveness of our CISD staff to moving our students forward in UIL Academics is awesome. Each campus recognizes how this provides acceleration to Tier 1 students, as well as challenges those who may need an outlet to think creatively.
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Lauren Padilla
8/13/2018 04:25:40 pm
Thank you for providing important and relevant discussion on how we can monitor our students. As always, I feel like you have our best interests at heart and I appreciate your willingness to help us further ourselves and our programs in any way you can
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Jennifer Haden
8/13/2018 04:29:53 pm
Thanks for being a great fine arts administrator and for dealing with all of our craziness! We are blessed to have you in CISD.
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Darla Wilson
8/13/2018 04:33:03 pm
I am always excited in seeing the growth of our Fine Arts Dept. Research tells us that Fine Arts students do better on test scores. https://www.msstate.edu/newsroom/article/2013/10/msu-research-effective-arts-integration-improves-test-scores/ You can follow students in Fine Arts and see great scores.
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Chad Solis
8/13/2018 04:35:28 pm
The vertical alignment training went well. Thank you for setting that up.
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Elizabeth Reyna
8/13/2018 04:10:01 pm
I enjoyed my EdCamp a lot today! In my first session I got a better understanding of different learning styles and how I can best create a lesson plan to meet all the needs of the students so they can all climb the ladder of learning together. In my second session I was informed of different resources to refer to to help keep up to date on events and any changes that I may need to know to ensure success for my students at competitions. I benefited a lot from my last EdCamp in getting to collaborate and do some vertical teaming with my partner in crime at the high school because of how many students are continuing on with choir to the high school level and how I can better prepare my current middle school students for high school next year!
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Gerardo Loya
8/13/2018 08:57:50 pm
Hey there! I see that you learned some wonderful things in your sessions today. I truly believe you would have benefited from the session the band department was involved with today. Many of the ideas presented apply completely to choir. You would greatly benefit from getting together with Jennifer Haden and at least get the handout from our session. It detailed multiple strategies that can be applies to your choir classes. Especially the ones regarding solo and ensemble and the all-region process. Good luck this year!
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Wendy Ivey
8/13/2018 04:10:07 pm
We will have many students in our classes with anxiety who we will need to teach coping and management strategies to. Before exams or when students seem over anxious, we can use the mindfulness technique and change their thinking, in turn, helping them to relax and focus on the task at hand.
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Katie Hendrix
8/13/2018 04:25:18 pm
I like that you plan to focus more on building relationships with your students because I truly believe building relationships with your students is worth it in the long run, for them and for you.
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Gina Terrell
8/13/2018 04:10:08 pm
I learned ALL about the case management and SPED policies of CISD. I'm a little overwhelmed, but it seems I have a good support system.
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Jennifer Scholebo
8/13/2018 04:15:28 pm
Gina, you will do great! Your support team at CHS will be awesome.
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Christina Michelle Sutton
8/13/2018 04:41:39 pm
It was a bit overwhelming at the beginning of last year for me to but you will get it. I have faith in you, and everyone is SUPER supportive so if you need something feel free to reach out and (from my experience) absolutely everyone in SPED will be more than willing to guide and help you.
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Tracy Bose
8/13/2018 04:10:18 pm
I attended a variety of presentations. Writing to Learn was very informative and I was impressed that our administration was a part of coming up with writing prompts to help teachers get a head start in having students write in all classes at high levels, it will be very easy to put that to use in the classroom and continue to find ways to have my students write. I found out how to use google slides more efficiently and create more memorable and useful interactive slides in google that can be linked in canvas this to can go directly into the classroom as I modify ones I have used before. We got an introduction on how we will incorporate SLO's in canvas unfortunately we had not yet covered them at the high school level so will probably need additional training in PLC's.
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Christopher Keefer
8/13/2018 04:25:59 pm
I wanted to attend Writing to Learn. I appreciate the fact that Admin is so helpful in implementing a writing program across the board. I wonder if they have the notes from these available?
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Stacy Zachary
8/13/2018 04:26:32 pm
I too really enjoyed the Writing to Learn session and how there are tools we can start using easily and immediately for team planning.
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BETHANN Hargrove
8/13/2018 04:10:35 pm
Today I learned the importance we have to collaborate with others, provide support with students, and remember we are all learners. We were able to have time to make sure our students schedule of services was aligned with their ARD paperwork.
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BeaAnn Brown
8/13/2018 04:10:55 pm
During my first session today I gained a new understanding and appreciation for completing Special Ed paperwork. My contribution of information about the student is important and does make a difference. I also attended the session on How to Build Relationships with At Risk Students. I've always known the importance of this but a reminder never hurts. I will make sure to include a getting to know you and me activity next week. I also attended the Achieve 3000 session - Where was this session when we first implemented this program??? WOW I truly see the value in this program and have a better understanding of how to get the most out of this program for my students. It will no longer be a DO IT because it's on a calendar somewhere activity in my classroom.
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Perla Prado
8/13/2018 04:11:01 pm
Today during EdCamp I learned quite a few different ways to make lesson more engaging using green screens and Visual reality (VR). These instructional tools will give my students the opportunity to be creative and think outside the box. I then learned strategies to help students deal with anxiety and depression. This one was the most useful because it is important for not only ourselves but our students to be aware of the characteristics of anxiety and depression. Finally, understanding and reflecting on the characteristics of a positive and negative teacher allowed me to reflect on my own actions in the classroom and the impact it has on our students. We need to make sure we are positive role models to our students that create a learning environment where they feel safe.
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Rachel Cecil
8/13/2018 04:26:44 pm
I also think the strategies for anxiety and depression were super important to have learned. Not only for students, but also for teachers. Everyone experiences these issues, some more than others. I think it's important to know how common these patterns of behavior occur and the seriousness they can inflict on a person's behaviors. We need to make sure that our students understand this and can cope with it.
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Jennifer Scholebo
8/13/2018 04:12:15 pm
3 Strategies I learned to help reach student learning goals:
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Ariale Thomas
8/13/2018 04:28:42 pm
All students can and will learn. Students all have the ability to learn content, some may just take a little longer than others.
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KENNETH J YBARRA
8/13/2018 04:12:25 pm
I enjoyed all the classes that I attended today during EdCamp and I tried to take something away from each one. I feel the most helpful classes that I attended today were the canvas courses. I feel like they really prepared me for the first week of classes.
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Misty Merck
8/13/2018 08:46:21 pm
Canvas is great! All the work you put into it this year can be rolled over next year which makes it ever better. If you ever need help please let me know. Great job today!
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Sean Rivers
8/13/2018 04:12:32 pm
Mr. Chad Townley did an excellent job going over many of the nuances of Achieve 3000. There have been several aspects of the program which our staff has struggled with in the past few years, and he showed us how to rectify them quite easily. Knowing that we can call him directly will make our Achieve 3000 classes run more smooth.
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Rachel Truax
8/13/2018 04:23:00 pm
I agree, Mr. Townley did a great job teaching us the ways of Achieve 3000! I have not taken the "how to build relationships with at-risk students" yet, but that is a PD that I would be really interested in taking.
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Cheryl Long
8/13/2018 04:28:21 pm
Your take away on “resetting yourself each day” is great. We all need to keep this thought foremost in our mind each day.
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Jeria R Corbitt
8/13/2018 04:12:38 pm
What three strategies did you learned about today during your Professional Learning Sessions you can implement to ensure all students reach their individual learning goals?
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Jason Brown
8/13/2018 04:12:38 pm
Today's EdCamp was more unique than in the past. I learned a lot of new tricks to employ using Google through the session I attended regarding Google tips and tricks, as well as a great compendium of knowledge to utilize in video form by Teacher.tech in YouTube. My first session discussed a lot about VR and AR and I did not know there was a difference until today. The AR tools and "toys" were very interesting and I enjoyed getting to explore using a Merge Cube as well as diving into some scenarios with the VR headset.
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Charles James
8/13/2018 04:23:22 pm
Those forms of technology sound like great ways to help get students involved in the learning practices.
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Jeremy VanWinkle
8/13/2018 04:25:12 pm
I'd like to see what this AR/VR stuff is like. Perhaps we can find a way to employ it in our art classes down the road?
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Gavin Watson
8/13/2018 04:40:00 pm
Mr. Brown, I would love for you to teach me some of those tricks using Google. One of my goals I have this year is to use Google to its fullest potential. Maybe we can carve out some time to go over some of the ways in which we can use it.
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Katherine Monzon
8/13/2018 04:12:53 pm
What three strategies did you learn about today during your Professional Learning Sessions you can implement to ensure all students reach their individual learning goals? What will #Learning4All look like in your classroom this year?
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Mary Evans
8/13/2018 04:44:10 pm
Canvas is a life changer for you and your students: it allows for you to save so much more time in order for you to give students quicker feedback in a variety of ways. Canvas can also provide you an opportunity to have open discussions (practice their math vocabulary and writing) through discussions boards! I hope this transforms how your students learn and go deeper into math content this year!
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Tim Gillespie
8/13/2018 04:13:25 pm
Today I got some great instruction on implementing the Fundamental 5 into my classroom. I'll really be able to stay in the Power Zone and differentiate my instruction due to the great instruction I received in Canvas. I also learned about doing formative assessment through EdPuzzle, Google Draw, and Padlet to help augment my use of Canvas. With all of these tools, I will be able to meet my students where they are and promote a learning for all atmosphere in my classroom. With the addition of the district wide wifi, my students will be able to gain technological equity and the learning in my classroom will extend beyond my four walls.
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8/13/2018 04:14:29 pm
One strategy I learned was from Ms. Kelsoe, when she taught us many different applications for Google Sites. The application I was most interested in was in using each students’ personal Google Site as a means of reflection on what they’ve learned in class. By reading each student’s reflections a teacher can learn which students don’t fully understand the content, which students do, and which students are showing signs of falling behind in their work (that is, are not filling out the reflections at all). This information allows the teacher to adjust and adapt their lesson plans as needed, whether that’s providing a small group or sub-population of students with RTI or re-teaching an entire TEK if it’s clear no student understood the content.
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Andreya Raska
8/13/2018 04:14:48 pm
The most interesting thing I learned about that can be used to implement #Learning4All was the virtual field trips. Field trips give students of all different skill levels and learning styles an opportunity to learn in a way that works best for them. We don't always have the ability to physically take the kids out in the world, but with virtual trips they get opportunities to experience things they otherwise wouldn't. As a journalism teacher, there are countless people we could Skype with to learn about all aspects of journalism.
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Estanislao Anzaldúa
8/13/2018 04:15:11 pm
EdCamp was wonderfully informational ! ! I was mind-blown by the various tools that are available to use in a 1:1 technology-driven classroom, such as Kahoot and Google Classroom. I believe that by using Kahoot, the students will be more inclined to be interactive with class discussions.
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Rachel Truax
8/13/2018 04:24:55 pm
That is awesome! I hope I can take a PD over Google next time and the different things Google has to offer.
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Eric Eades
8/13/2018 04:15:52 pm
Today, I learned a lot more about using Canvas, which helped me overcome the case of "I got this" and not wanting to grow in my professional learning. Knowing that I can create a quiz in Canvas and have it graded, then eventually have those grades linked in Skyward is a fascinating and wonderful thing to have available. I also learned a lot more about UIL Academics, which is a good thing to know as the UIL Academic Coordinator. I now understand the necessity to talk with our teachers. Finally, as a SPED teacher, it was good to get a refresher on Case Management, as well as learn something new. Having a better understanding of the roles of the Educational Case Manager helps out a ton!
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Katie Hendrix
8/13/2018 04:21:54 pm
I like your comment about learning for all looking and feeling like a safe place while modeling "learning for all" through all kinds of activities.the I believe before learning can occur, students must feel safe.
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Katherine Monzon
8/13/2018 04:23:10 pm
Hello there! Yes, it will be nice to connect our Canvas to Skyward in regards to grading. We will definitely have to work as a team to make sure we use Canvas with fidelity.
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Ariale Thomas
8/13/2018 04:26:14 pm
I think Canvas is a wonderful tool that CISD is using. It is a great way for the students to keep track of work being done if they are not there or are falling behind. Also, I agree that mistakes are signs learning is happening and important in the process.
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Rachel Cecil
8/13/2018 04:15:58 pm
Today in this edcamp, I learned how to consistently work with my students towards their personal and educational growth. In my canvas class, I learned how technology can connect my students and I better. Through this program, I connect with them in so many different ways, including videos, quizzes, discussions, and other internet resources. We can share files and thoughts to promote further discussion and understanding of the topics we are learning about. I can see progress through the use of pictures.
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Libby Priddy
8/13/2018 04:40:26 pm
Hey Rachel,
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Paul Raska
8/13/2018 04:15:58 pm
Today in EdCamp I attended two session followed by a Fine Arts Alignment double session. Each one covered different strategies to help ensue that every kid will have a deep meaningful experience in the classroom.
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Michael Shawn McCormick
8/13/2018 04:16:20 pm
First off, I am amazed and encouraged at the commitment to technology. I love the Canvas platform and opportunities it presents. I also look forward to using Google drive and the tools available through it.
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Kristopher Shofner
8/13/2018 04:16:32 pm
Today I learned about all the resources available to increase student outreach and accessibility. By staying on top of current trends and applications, we can deepen and enrich the learning process to captivate our students minds.
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Cheryl Long
8/13/2018 04:24:13 pm
Thank you for the information concerning Nearpod. It is always wonderful to find a source for attendance. It will definitely check this one out.
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Charles James
8/13/2018 04:16:32 pm
Learn4All for me is letting student achieve success in my class with the guidance of the teacher. Every student is unique in his/her own way of learning, and as a educational leader in the classroom, my job is to help these student find their success through various, meaningful ways. This will be through RTI process in which differentiation with play an important role. I also learned from Kelly James' training on how to help students with reading strategies in Social Studies. I also like Sketch Notes for them to link ideas visually to ideas that are important to the class. I also learned how to implement technology, especially with Google, for the students to help scaffold lessons for them. I learned how to embed Google Slides and have them answer onto the slides as part of a lesson I can make. Then, we dove in deeper into the RTI process, discussing how this should look in our classes. As a Social Studies team, we came up with a plan throughout 6th through 8th for RTI to make sure it looked about the same in our classes. We also shared with other departments how they would construct a lesson for RTI, from Tier 1 to Tier 3.
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Will Massey
8/13/2018 04:36:53 pm
Emphasizing RtI has been a tremendous help for me as well. We have heard about it a lot in the past few years, but haven't received a lot of specific training in it. I have a much better understanding of what it should look like and how we are going to utilize it.
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Bradley Adams
8/13/2018 04:16:44 pm
In EdCamp today, I learned even more about Canvas than I already knew. I thought I was pretty well versed in Canvas, but today I was introduced to the ability to embed Google Docs as an assignment. This will make a lot of what I do, a little bit simpler for myself as well as the students, since we use and will be using Google Docs quite a bit. I also learned how to make quizzes have randomly selected questions, so that students don't all have the same question. This should give me a clearer picture on who is succeeding, and who is struggling.
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Arnie Martinez
8/13/2018 04:37:28 pm
I cannot wait to see how you incorporate your new skills in Canvas and in Google. Would these tools lend themselves to doing science journals online?
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8/13/2018 04:16:51 pm
The courses that I got to be a part of today were refreshing, and informative. In my second course learned more about UIL and being a coach for the areas of Computer Science & Computer Applications, anything to get the students to compete, and further their knowledge is a plus for me.
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Libby Priddy
8/13/2018 04:37:15 pm
Hey Rick,
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Cody Smith
8/13/2018 04:47:24 pm
I am excited for you to share your ideas for to build our program to be better. Technology is ever changing and we need to change to keep up with the change.
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Jairo Salazar
8/13/2018 04:17:35 pm
Today in EdCamp I learned a great deal with the other instrumental fine art programs at CISD. We had a renown guest speaker by the name of Cindy Bulloch, guide our programs through her points in vertical alignment. She demonstrated her mastery in music education and years of experience, by sharing many examples for each topic and subtopic she covered and made for us. Mrs. Bulloch stated that we should be our own programs fanatic and should follow through in all of our decisions. I definitely feel better prepared as an educator with a combination of attending her workshop and attending TODA in San Antonio. I felt one of the main themes was to have structure on the fundamentals with our beginning ensembles and continue them until they graduate through secondary. The last theme was the need to prepare your program with key dates, pieces and expectations to ensure success throughout the academic year.
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Alyssa Bruns
8/13/2018 04:18:05 pm
The first strategy that I learned today is the level questioning chart. I love the idea of using this in my classroom to reach all learners. We discussed how students struggle with making inferences because we are not pushing them to the level they are expected to be at by the STAAR test. Most of the questions I have asked of my students in the past have been tier 1 and tier 2. Looking at the chart, I've realized how simple it is to make the questions a higher level. This is an easy fix in my classroom that will help students think more critically.
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Emalee Mahand
8/13/2018 04:18:30 pm
What three strategies did you learned about today during your Professional Learning Sessions you can implement to ensure all students reach their individual learning goals?
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Libby Priddy
8/13/2018 04:34:53 pm
Emalee,
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Katie Hendrix
8/13/2018 04:18:45 pm
Three strategies I learned to ensure that all students reach their individual learning goals; progress monitoring through go formative, tracking behavior, and using flipgrid to increase collaboration among students and peers. Learning for all will look like many things but will look collaborative, flexible, like small groups, RTI, supplemental aids, tutorials, and Tier 2 instruction in den. Learning for all looks like equity.
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Kerry Martinez
8/13/2018 04:19:11 pm
In my first session I learned about the AR/VR. I will be able to take my students on field trips to different museums without having to leave our classroom. We will also be able to visit certain places and look at things in more 3-D than before. It will be a great tool for them to learn more about art. I learned that the Google Expedition App will be the art students best friend. We also learned about the MERGE cube. It is a very interesting and fun thing that I think my students may like not only playing with, but creating art with.
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Michele Balthrop
8/13/2018 04:19:11 pm
As a district substitute, I learned many strategies that will help support the teachers when they are out of their classroom. Also some classroom activities to keep them engaged. I'm glad I was able to be apart of this today.
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Rachel Truax
8/13/2018 04:19:17 pm
The three strategies that I learned today are related to a Canvas introduction, an introduction of Achieve 3000, and Response to Intervention. A strategy I learn about in the Canvas lesson is the ability to use discussion and assignments as a way to check for understanding and the ability to assign work. I learned the way to navigate Canvas, because I have never used it as a teacher. I still need to play around with it a bit, but I feel more confident in utilizing Canvas as a resource for my classroom.
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Bradley Adams
8/13/2018 04:23:43 pm
Canvas is very easy to use, and has a lot of different features, like we saw today. It's great to have all of your resources in one place for the students.
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Arnie Martinez
8/13/2018 04:41:00 pm
So how will you use achieve in your classroom and connect it to your instruction? How do you need to implement Achieve to make it an effective instructional tool for you?
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Christopher Keefer
8/13/2018 04:19:42 pm
In the class on "Reading Strategies to Create Rigor and Relevance," we looked at "How to Teach Questioning with a Text." So many sixth grade students have poor reading skills, and they do not see the relevance of the documents and articles that they read. They must consider what the author meant by the article, and whether it challenged the reader. I can implement this strategy when we read current events, or if we have a passage from a text. Another strategy from that class was the teaching of opposing viewpoints in a text. Most students know how to argue, but few understand how to process different points of view, much less identify them. I plan to use this strategy in political and controversial topics in the news. Finally, in the class on Google Suite I was able to see how the students have been using Google Classroom in the elementary. I plan to use this knowledge by showing them how to transition to Canvas. I plan to make #Learning4All in my classroom a collaborative and fun experience wherein the students are able to ask questions, work on ideas, and share their learning in different formats.
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8/13/2018 04:22:24 pm
Having a collaborative classroom will certainly be a fun experience. Would like to hear more about the Reading Strategies session you sat in on. Would be great to hear the strategies that were bounced around in there, and how I could tie this in, in my computer science classes. Especially my AP Computer Science class so I can really challenge those kids.
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Will Massey
8/13/2018 04:32:32 pm
Speaking of Google and Canvas, I liked that we were shown how to embed Google documents directly into Canvas so that the student doesn't have to click a link to go out to a google doc. They can now simply manipulate the document while staying in Canvas. I think we will experience much fewer complications now that they don't have to jump from program to program.
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Maria Sandoval-Perez
8/13/2018 04:19:53 pm
Today has been full of important information. I have learned something new in every session. Can U Canvas? was the one that helped me the most. I am new to Canvas but after this session, I believe I can get started. Google sites, google drive is also something that I needed help with and now I think I have a better understanding of both tools.
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Cheryl Long
8/13/2018 04:20:54 pm
Edcamp sessions were chalked full of wonderful strategies making my choice difficult.
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Trissa Hasley
8/13/2018 04:21:00 pm
During EdCamp I took courses on the Fundamental 5 and Reading Strategies for Social Studies. Both of the classes gave me excellent resources including sketch noting, teaching in the Power Zone, and Recognize and Reinforce. Sketch noting is using visuals and sketches in your notes. There is a video that introduces students to the value of visuals and the flexibility of Sketch noting. Its flexibility allows students that doodle to turn that energy into usefulness and allows students that do not draw to utilize charts and graphs. Teaching in the Power Zone is an emphasis on walking around the room and not stuck to your desk. Move around so that you are in the middle of the students to keep them engaged and on task. Recognize and Reinforce section of the Fundamental 5 I believe is the most crucial piece of the Fundamental 5. This is the foundation of relationships with your students. This is where you reinforce specific behaviors you want while avoiding generic "good job" comments. We need to make a big deal of those positive behaviors making our comments specific and personal. Reward the effort our students make. I will utilize these and other strategies that focus on engaging ALL of the students. My classroom will become a supporting environment that will promote discussions and student led learning. It will be full of multiple strategies that utilize visual, verbal, and written mediums of learning. RTI will be a constant and fluid function to ensure students meet their full potential.
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Lori Farney
8/13/2018 04:21:12 pm
The collaboration and formative assessment websites and tools I learned about, and the special features with master slides in google slides were all invaluable for stepping up the game with collaboration and student engagement.
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Jeremy VanWinkle
8/13/2018 04:21:17 pm
In session one I learned how to take advantage of 1-1 through various resources and avenues. I was excited to learn a little more about things like Kahoot! and Google Classroom that I haven't been able to employ in my previous assignments.
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Clint Hawkins
8/14/2018 08:19:29 am
I definitely think that utilizing 1:1 technology in a class like art may be more challenging than in a core subject but utilizing ideas like google classroom or videos for tutorials is a place to start.
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Jennifer Haden
8/13/2018 04:21:18 pm
Learning for all in the band classroom looks different than a core class. While our students are learning how to play instruments, they are also learning two different languages. Our students are learning the language of rhythm and the musical alphabet. One strategy we use for this is called count, tap, clap. Students are required to subdivide the beat, say note names, demonstrate the correct fingerings, and make sure they can say the correct slide position. We also learned about double tonguing technique in the band classroom. We as a band staff agreed that you should not hold your students to a lower expectation just because something is "hard." In the band classroom, everyone is capable of achieving success because we are constantly using formative assessments to manage our RTI. Band RTI happens every day in our classroom in a real time. Our students love it because it holds them accountable to themselves and each other.
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Chad Solis
8/13/2018 04:29:30 pm
I liked the count, clap, tap information. I have always just referred to it as count and clap, but I realize now it is important to address all aspects of what we are doing so that no one is lost. We need all directors and students to be on the same page to maximize learning.
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Gerardo Loya
8/13/2018 09:01:19 pm
Our session was great today. You are definitely correct about "learning for all" looking differently in our band classes. We are definitely going to make tremendous strides in middle school this year because I noticed how prepared you are as we get ready to start the year. I'm proud of you!
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Ariale Thomas
8/13/2018 04:21:24 pm
Today during Edcamp I went to Can You Canvas? It showed me some of the features of the program that I plan to implement into my daily routine. I will use the discussion section to get the students to start writing about what they learned and to inform me of any misconceptions they may have had.
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Autumn Wimberly
8/13/2018 04:34:25 pm
I hope to learn more about canvas myself and how to implement it into my daily routine. I love your plan and think you will have a very successful year.
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Tandy Webb
8/13/2018 04:35:00 pm
I forgot to mention Writing to Learn! I had a thought about using the discussion tab in Canvas to have kids write what they know about a concept as a bell ringer before the lesson - kind of a digital discussion as the K part of a KWL chart.
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Bradley Adams
8/13/2018 04:21:36 pm
NearPod is an excellent program to use in the classroom! It offers a lot of different features to assess and check for understanding.
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Shelia Connor
8/13/2018 04:47:03 pm
I am going to have to get with you and Hendrix and incorporate NearPod into my lessons.
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Madeleine Fimbrez
8/13/2018 04:21:42 pm
One strategy I learned about today during ed camp was all the different ways to assess students via discussion boards (threaded), assignments (picture, link, open answer, google cloud), and quizzes (multple choice), and how to utilize Speed Grader to quickly grade our students, as well as how easy it is to move the grades from canvas to Skyward. The next strategy I learned was over Positive Learning and how I can implement the Primer Sequences to introduce vocab to my ELL students, as well as using the reference pages of the program for all of my students. The third thing I learned was about RTI, what it means, and how that is going to play out within the grade level and the math department.
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Tandy Webb
8/13/2018 04:36:10 pm
With class sizes of 27-29, I think the Speed Grader is going to be a life saver!
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Leigh Kruse-Paine
8/13/2018 04:22:36 pm
Three strategies that I learned from professional development at the 2018-2019 Ed Camp include innovative and detailed information pertaining to the association between understanding the 7 cognitive levels of our special education students and creating specially designed instruction, how specially designed instruction can be created to ensure all students in the classroom receive individualized instruction and the roles and responsibilities expectations as a Special Education Case Manager. Learning this year in all my classrooms as a Co-Teacher and Resource teacher will look like a classroom with student-centered activities with team building activities spiraled into the agenda on a weekly basis to encourage a safe learning environment. This will ensure I reach my goal of developing genuine positive relationships with each student to student and student to teacher interactions.
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Jessica Salmons-Graham
8/13/2018 04:23:37 pm
Today in the SPED documentation course, I learned how important it is to be clear and concise when providing feedback to the SPED teachers. If we just say something like "Johnny doesn't read well" the SPED teachers won't know where to set the IEP goals. Teachers need to provide feedback like "Johnny has a 123 lexile which places him four grade levels behind." Once we provide this direct information, the SPED teacher is then able to provide the student a clear, measurable goal for their IEP.
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Aaron Kelly
8/13/2018 04:24:29 pm
Over the course of professional learning I attended two sessions that I believe will be very effective in showing different aspects that I will use in my class this year. The first session I attended was how to use different online tools to create different types of assessments. I did not realize that they could be used for assessments not only at the end of the class but also at the beginning of class. One of those resources was Padlet. Padlet is a program that can be used to demonstrate knowledge at the beginning of class as a warm up but could also be used to deepen understanding in my Texas History class. It allows for students to create works by using typed descriptions and adding images that will really help the different types of learners in my class. Another online tool I found interesting was Edpuzzle. Edpuzzle is a tool that can be used to teach using a video with questions that are embedded in the video. I found that it is a effective tool to use when teaching but also a way to flip the class by giving students a video to watch at home as well as questions that can be answered by them at home. They then can come back and have a class discussion when they come back the next day. It can be also used as a student led tool which I plan to explore this upcoming year. The next session I found very interesting was over computational thinking. It shows me and the rest of how to think through analysis. It used a four way process of decomposing, pattern matching, abstraction, and algorithm. I thought that this would only be for certain classes but I found out that it can be used for Social Studies. I found out that if given a scenario like the Alamo it could be used to play what ifs and if certain events were changed how they change history. This is something I plan on exploring this upcoming year because I think it is really important for students to be able analyze certain situations and how outcomes could change.
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Arnulfo Martinez
8/13/2018 04:24:55 pm
In today's Ed Camp I attended two sessions. The first was a review of chapter 37 of the education code. The second was a Staff development of the IMMS core teachers to address RTI.
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Chad Solis
8/13/2018 04:25:01 pm
In today’s professional development, we learned about vertical alignment from middle school to high school band. In order to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity at learning and comprehending. The main points were organizational skills, maintaining a routine, and vertical alignment.
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Gavin Watson
8/13/2018 04:26:05 pm
The three strategies I learned and I will implement into my classroom are what I gleaned from the Learning to Write and Writing to Learn session. There were so many takeaways from this session. First was the understanding that it was ok for my students to write to rewrite in their own words that content that we went over. This process will be so helpful because it will give them the opportunity to write without being paralyzed by all the grammar rules. For me, their words are like a lump of clay which can be molded and formed later. It is the process of writing that will help the student gain a greater understanding of what they have learned.
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Darla Wilson
8/13/2018 04:39:53 pm
I am excited for you to share your ideas for to build our program to be better. Technology is ever changing and we need to change to keep up with the change. Two minds - twice as many strategies - it is going to be a great year.
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Steve Voth
8/14/2018 08:11:06 am
I think the Learning to Write will be a good implementation for all classes. I agree that it gives the students the ability to write what they've learned. This will make things much more interesting for them.
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Jackie Flowers
8/13/2018 04:26:26 pm
During Edcamp, I learned that Google Explorations and Nearpod could help with engaging all students’ learning. It is really interesting to see that you can view different parts of the world and learn about different things through virtual reality or augmented reality. I also learned different strategies to help students deal with anxiety and depression in order for them to be able to learn to the best of their ability. I also learned that after we get trained about SLO’s, Canvas would be able to help monitor the students’ SLO’s for the teacher portfolio. The most beneficial session was with Chad Townley. He was able to provide new information about Achieve that should help students grow their reading levels.
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Robert Webb
8/13/2018 04:26:51 pm
I attended Chapter 37 Discipline Training for sessions 1 and 2. I was reminded that Discipline, like all good teaching is based on relationships. I learned that this past legislative session that the legislature implemented a new law called David's Law concerning Cyberbullying. This law created anytime, anywhere disciplinary issues that we as a admin team must address in relation to Cyberbullying. I was reminded that positive behavior training is necessary to move the school and students forward in their retraining and lifelong learning.
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Will Massey
8/13/2018 04:27:05 pm
For today's EdCamp, I enrolled in two technology related sessions. The first session was over the use of Twitter. Being familiar with the basic operations and functions of Twitter, I found the suggestions for the use of twitter to further professional purposes useful. Branding was discussed in depth. Using to Twitter to promote the district's brand, athletics, academics, my brand as a professional educator...Twitter is a free, and very powerful, publicity tool. Twitter as a professional development tool was another idea that was shared. Networking with colleagues, access to experts, stealing ideas from other educators to help my students succeed...Twitter provides innumerable resources for those willing to do a little research. The second session that I attended was over using Google in the classroom. This session was especially helpful in filling in some of the gaps I had in understanding some of the more technical aspects of using Google to its fullest potential. Creating shareable documents and forms, protecting master copies, embedding in canvas to ease the work required of my students, etc... Effective implementation of technology is a must, and these sessions increased my ability and confidence to do so.
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Darla Wilson
8/13/2018 04:27:31 pm
For the 2018-2019 school year, I am excited about implementing some new sites for formative assessment. GoSoapBox has a great way to determine the "feel" of the class if they are getting a new concept. According to GoSoapBox site, “Your students interact anonymously, allowing them to contribute opinions and questions without worrying about the reactions of their peers.
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Morgan Piasecki
8/13/2018 04:28:36 pm
I learned how to use the snipping tool to cut and paste student test results relating to their G's. I plan to share this information with gen-ed teachers so they can better support our students with SLD. I learned about the social skills curriculum we use in STAT. This will help my student's social, emotional, and behavioral growth. I learned that ESped sends case manager reports monthly that will keep me appraised of my student's due dates. I will be working with my students on their social, emotional, and behavioral goals so that they are able to go into gen-ed classes #learning4all
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Haley Fisher
8/13/2018 04:40:08 pm
I love the snipping tool! I learned how to use it a couple years ago and I use it constantly now. I will be looking forward to working with you to help get you curriculum you will need in your class as well as support any students you have who will come to my room.
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Cody Smith
8/13/2018 04:45:11 pm
I love the snipping tool! It has got me through a lot over the past couple of years.
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Libby Priddy
8/13/2018 04:29:33 pm
I attended the Chapter 37 update with CISD administrators. Within this course we reviewed legislation that impacts decisions and actions we can take as administrators. As administrators, we have to balance school discipline and the support of teachers with ensuring that students have access to an education. Although the information in Chapter 37 was introduced last year, it is good practice to review. Key understandings for me is the need to help teachers understand the importance of proactively establishing fair and consistent classroom expectations and procedures. Secondly, the importance of taking time to establish and continually nurture positive relationships is crucial to everyone's success - adult and child. Third, campus culture is critical to establishing effective discipline management and it is the role of the campus principal to ensure that systems and structures are in place to make this happen. As I listened today, I was reminded of prior professional reading, Discipline with Dignity, by Curwin, Mendler, and Mendler. The authors emphasize how to use relevance, teacher enthusiasm, and choice to motivate students. Creating a classroom where #learning4all exists isn't just about rules and procedures. The majority of students who are engaged, respected and have choice rarely need behavior interventions. Supporting teachers in the creation of this type of learning environment is the primary role of administrators. If we can do this well, we can help students remain in the classroom environment.
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Tandy Webb
8/13/2018 04:29:53 pm
I have brain overload today - so many new things are available to use this year in our classrooms! I have been introduced to so many new programs here - I think Skyward and Office 365 were the only ones I had used before! Three things I am looking forward to using this year are Canvas (the speed grader for quizzes where we can build question banks), the Positive Learning program for Math vocabulary (last year I had no ESL students in my grade level so I am glad we will have this support), and RtI processes (I have been in districts that utilized RtI before so I am looking forward to sharing ideas with my new colleagues). I am also planning on using some of my Fundamental Five training this year and sharing with my team. As a new teacher to the district, I wish there had been more time and more training on the programs available. I am worried about feeling prepared for this year knowing there are so many new programs that I need to utilize. However, knowing the entire Math team is new, I like the fact that we are already beginning to lean on each other. I hope that #Learning4All looks like opportunities for each student to show growth in their math skills throughout the year!
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Autumn Wimberly
8/13/2018 04:33:09 pm
Brain overload for me as well... in a good way of course. As a first year teachers, I have not had to opportunity to use and of the programs, so I'm excited to learn about and kick off the year using all these great tools!
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Parker Bowman
8/13/2018 04:30:06 pm
During Professional Learning today I found multiple strategies that I can implement to make sure that all my students will meet the expectations. One of the strategies I found was the Leveled Question Chart. During the “Writing to Learn” PL, we were shown a chart that will help my students improve their questioning. This will help my students and myself tremendously because they will be able to create better questions that will help them dig deeper into the content. Another strategy is when we are conducting research papers, I will have the students chose the topics and what tools they want to use when researching it. This is bring a whole new level to the research because it will be something that they are interested in. They will be going deeper into the content because they “want to” and have interest in it, not because they have too. The last strategy is from the Mental Health PL. I would incorporate the Progressive Muscle Relaxation before each test. This will help my students release any anxiety they have before a big test.
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Stephanie Crane
8/13/2018 04:38:58 pm
I love that you learned about progressive muscle relaxation in your EdCamp today! I wonder if it could have the opposite effect on some of your students though (especially later in the day) and make them so relaxed that they are not able to focus on their assessment.
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Faith Turner
8/13/2018 04:30:18 pm
1) I learned abut "Positive Learning" today. This will help my English Language learners with academic vocabulary in the math classroom. I can't wait to use it. 2) I had a refresher on case management roles and responsibilities. I was glad to get the required forms and letters to help with my special education duties. 3) I was able to print out my IEPs forms to prepare for distribution to the general education teachers. #Learning4All will be a great experience in my classroom because I will put my very best effort into making sure to capture all students at their level and bring them up to my expectations. I will build relationships first, then differentiate my instruction to make sure that all students have the chance to be successful. I am looking forward to this new school year!!!! :)
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Shelia Connor
8/13/2018 04:45:34 pm
I love your enthusiasm and I will definitely be coming to you when I want some feedback for any of our students that you are working with.
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Christina Michelle Sutton
8/13/2018 04:31:06 pm
I can definitely say today's EdCamp was a lot of fun and I feel like I learned a lot today. I feel like I found alot of new things that that I can apply to my instruction in my CBI classroom. The biggest three take-away for me today is: 1.) How I can use AR/VR in my class to get a close up look things that seem more abstract to my students. We can really look closely at plants, animals, and outer space. 2.) How Technology can more easily fit in CBI than I originally though. There are a ton of new resources for me that I found on Code.org. and 3.) the helpful pro tips I picked up from Ms. Kruse-Paine to use in developing lessons that meet my students need with out overwhelming them.
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Karen Fimbrez
8/13/2018 04:31:35 pm
Response reflects knowledge of the content and evidence of having completed the professional
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Autumn Wimberly
8/13/2018 04:31:47 pm
Today during EdCamp, I learned a variety strategies that can be used via technology and implemented into the classroom in order to supplement learning and student success. Some of these strategies included: google classroom, nearpod, quizizz, etc. These technological tools will help create an interactive, engaging atmosphere and provide creative ways for students to learn. These tools can keep the classroom alive and keep the students alive as well. Using technologies like this will ensure learning for all because they help the educator assess students in a variety of ways. These technologies also give educators a great way to differentiate for all types of learners. There are auditory tools, drawing tools, a variety of assessment tools, etc. If used properly, the educator should be able to start driving students towards meeting goal and finding success. I plan to implement as many strategies as possible into my classroom.
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Stephanie Crane
8/13/2018 04:35:47 pm
I have never heard of nearpod - what is that?
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Kristina Lael Warden
8/13/2018 04:41:28 pm
I also learned about nearpod today which seems like a great way to make lessons exciting for kids as they learn and explore! Nearpod can be utilized across many content areas! Hope you enjoyed your first ed camp and can utilize strategies you learned in your classroom this year!
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Julie Tarter
8/13/2018 04:33:09 pm
Today, I gained a better understanding of the RTI process. I was a little unclear about the difference between tier 2 and 3, and what it looks like to effectively intervene for each tier. My group discussed ways to do this. For Tier 1, we will do Human Sentences to teach simple and compound sentence. For Tier 2, when writing essays, we will group students who are doing well with the process will work on their own. For those struggling in particular areas, such as thesis statement or a "hook", we will pull them in small groups to work with them. For Tier 3, when writing an essay, we will pull students individually for writing conferences to help in areas they have gaps in their knowledge.
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Haley Fisher
8/13/2018 04:39:23 pm
Please do not feel bad about not understanding RTI before. I taught a Tier 2 class the last three years and didn’t have a great understanding of it until about half way through. I enjoyed seeing how ELA will break down their RTI steps. It’s always nice seeing how strategies work in varying subjects.
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Stephanie Crane
8/13/2018 04:33:27 pm
During my first Edcamp today, I learned all about Canvas and how to utilize its various features in my classroom instruction. The best feature that I learned was how to embed google documents into Canvas and then use the speed grading function to efficiently add to my gradebook. This will allow me to reach ALL of my students by having the ability to assign individual assignments as needed and/or allow the whole class to work towards the same goal.
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Kathe Syke
8/13/2018 04:33:45 pm
I attended 2 very informational camps this morning. First, I attended one on different sites I can use to engage students. We looked at Google Classroom, Quizlet, Quizzez, and other sites. I know I will use these in my classroom. Some are new and others are ones I have used before. Students love to play games and many of these are games that can help me know what they know without them thinking it is work!
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Kristina Lael Warden
8/13/2018 04:34:38 pm
During Ed Camp today, I was able to attend two very different sessions but also very relevant to my teaching in PE, Health and Athletics. The first session I attended was about AR and VR in which we got to use VR googles and merge cubes. I am so excited to use google expeditions with my health classes as we explore the human body systems. To be able to see the human body systems in a more interactive way I feel will be more engaging to the students. I have never experienced AR before and was completely amazed by the real life pictures coming to life on the desk in which you can walk around and explore all sides of the model. Super excited to try this with health classes. I do with there were some ways to implement this in the PE class and I do plan on doing some research from other PE professionals about how they might utilize this in the gym.
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Amanda Romero
8/13/2018 04:35:08 pm
The first session I attended today was on reading strategies for social studies. This course covered mostly different strategies that we could use on non-fiction texts in our classrooms. It looked at understanding context, as well as why certain types of language and data can be important in Social Studies because of the types of data that it can convey. One thing that Kelly also went over was note taking techniques, such as doodle notes, which is a wonderful tool to utilize for our subpops. We are going to definitely have an emphasis on vocabulary and sketching in order to increase student learning.
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Kendra Ferry
8/14/2018 08:54:46 am
I was so grateful that you shared some of your Fundamental 5 strategies in the RTI meeting. I look forward to hearing more about that.
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Christine Thompson
8/15/2018 11:36:47 am
Amanda, It's great to know that you were able to apply your morning learning to the afternoon's RtI discussions. When we talk about RtI in PLCs, it will be interesting to hear how this informed your thinking and design.
Mary Evans
8/13/2018 04:37:40 pm
During the two EdCamp sessions I attended, I learned a number of strategies that I can implement in my classroom. In my first session, I was able to explore different formative assessment tools available online. My favorite website that I explored is called Recap. This tool allows for teachers to differentiate the way students submit their responses (i.e. video response, Q and A format, chat/text format).
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Haley Fisher
8/13/2018 04:38:37 pm
I learned how to create quizzes in Canvas. I am excited about using Canvas this year in my classroom as I feel it will be a better tool than Google Classroom as I have used in the past. The speed Grader option will make grading student assignments in Canvas quick and accessible so I am not using my time flipping through shared folders by several students. Having an easy way to grade assignments will give me more time to plan purposeful lessons for my students. Math will be using a new program to the district called Positive Learning. This is a tool to help our ELL students learn academic vocabulary ahead of time. They will learn the new vocabulary through a series of Primers. Each primer is made up of sequences to walk students through situations to help connect vocabulary to everyday life. There are pop-ups on the academic vocabulary students can click to get an example and/or picture to better explain the word.
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Shelia Connor
8/13/2018 04:39:14 pm
Today during EdCamp Session I High Yield Strategy: Collaboration, Formative Assessment, SAMR Model
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Kristina Lael Warden
8/13/2018 04:40:54 pm
RTI is going to be a great implementation on our campus! I'm glad we are putting focus on this in order to help our students be successful. It will be exciting to see how much they can accomplish and the whole RTI process by the end of the year.
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Elijah Glenn
8/13/2018 04:39:43 pm
Today I learned how to use my sandbox in order to prepare for my lesson. Inside of the sandbox I discovered I was able to create a quiz. The quiz can be connected to CANVAS. In CANVAS, I could click speedgrader which would grade my student's assignments and embed the grade into skyward. I also learned we do not currently have our students aligned in our skyward. Which made it difficult to transition into doing our work for one of our Edcamp sessions.
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Misti Menchaca
8/13/2018 04:40:20 pm
In EdCamp today, I only went to two sessions. My first session was very informative and makes me want to discover and explore the world of Google Expeditions. By adding the use of virtual reality goggles, students are able to explore topics and concepts that get them really involved in the lesson. In the little time that I was able to explore the app, I did not see very many PE specific concepts. On this app, there were also AR’s. Being able to see a specific topic in 3D can really enhance students learning and visual perceptions. Another site that was discussed was the use of Nearpod. I am not very familiar with this site so more investigations will be needed by me in order to find ways that will maximize learning for my students.
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Cody Smith
8/13/2018 04:42:25 pm
I learned abut "Positive Learning" today. This will help my English Language learners with academic vocabulary in the math classroom. I had a refresher on case management roles and responsibilities. I was glad to get the required forms and letters to help with my special education duties I was able to print out my IEPs forms to prepare for distribution to the general education teachers. #Learning4All will be a great experience in my classroom because I will put my very best effort into making sure to capture all students at their level and bring them up to my expectations. I will build relationships first, then differentiate my instruction to make sure that all students have the chance to be successful.
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Misty Merck
8/13/2018 08:44:40 pm
Positive learning is great in classrooms with immediate feedback. I have been involved with special education for the past few years at my previous district and it is very challenging. This day and age, building relationships are just as important as the lesson. Great job!
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Laurie Salfen
8/13/2018 04:43:49 pm
As a new teacher to the district, I appreciate the introduction to Canvas. For several districts, I've used Edmodo to post lessons plans, lessons, flipped instruction, announcements, etc. Canvas is not similar in layout, so I will practice and seek online instruction for "how-to" use Canvas effectively. I will use Canvas for lesson introduction and quizzes; speed grader should be a real time saver. More than anything, I like the opportunity to respond to students beyond applying a grade. I will ask students to take pictures of their journal entries, drawings, and written responses and then upload to Canvas.
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Christine Thompson
8/15/2018 11:33:22 am
Laurie,
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Melissa Smith
8/13/2018 04:49:26 pm
In my first session, Special Education 101, I learned a three-step approach to writing a PLAAFP to better serve the students as well as special education staff by narrowing the focus of the report to facilitate creation of measurable, achievable goals. The three-step approach focuses first on the student area of need, then focuses on the specific skill to address and, finally, provides data to illustrate the need. I can see how this approach will help teachers in various content areas articulate student needs in a focused way that may otherwise seem difficult for departments outside of ELA.
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Christine Thompson
8/15/2018 11:31:28 am
Melissa,
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Cameron Hartson
8/13/2018 05:23:05 pm
I took several things away from today's PD that will help me be more effective in the classroom: 1. I am excited to implement Sketch Notes which I discovered this morning in the Reading Strategies for Social Studies session. 2. Learned several great Google tools that will be very useful, especially how to create a master that kids can edit; I feel this will be a great way for my students to answer their exit tickets in Canvas. 3. My biggest take away for the day was in the session with Mr. Marrs and Mrs. Burton with several great strategies for working with At Risk kids, establishing norms, getting to know their learning zone, and meeting the kids halfway. I think it is important to have expectations discussed and displayed in the classroom so the students and I are reminded daily of the norms we established for behavior and treatment of one another.
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Ian Story
8/13/2018 08:06:38 pm
Differentiated Learning is boosted big time with Sketch Notes. Allowing kids to interpret information given to them, reflect on it, and then portray it in any format the want is a great way to meet the needs of all of your learners. Marrs and Burton are great at seeing the big picture as they provided insight into what some of our most troubled kids deal with on a daily basis.
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Montey Stevenson
8/13/2018 08:21:02 pm
Marrs and Burton gave us great ideas of how to reach At Risk kids. I think the displays that kids create regarding classroom expectations is a great way to create classroom culture. I agree with you, I also think it is important to to discuss and display expectation so kids have a daily reminder of how to treat each other.
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Steve Voth
8/14/2018 08:07:33 am
I'm a big believer that students have to write to learn. I think Sketch Notes is a great idea. Not all students take notes the same way and this allows some differentiation in styles.
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Bart Beasley
8/13/2018 05:25:21 pm
In my first session I learned about new ways to use Google in the classroom more effectively which will definitely make things more efficient. The building relationships session I attended was very well put together and really made you think about what type of teacher you are and what type you want to be. In my Achieve 3000 session I learned new items to use to enhance the program.
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Montey Stevenson
8/13/2018 08:16:43 pm
I thought The building relationships sessions was well put together as well. Mr Marrs and Burton did a good job of keeping us all engaged. The activity we did made me look at what type of teacher I’m striving to be in the classroom.
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Ian Story
8/13/2018 08:01:11 pm
Throughout my sessions today the main goal that was preached was all about relationships. Building relationships with the students is the way we can help them reach full potential. We can provide a Least Restrictive Environment that allows students to tear down their affective filters and collaborate with others ensuring success for the whole group. Through Google Hangouts, we can connect with experts in certain fields that give our students purpose behind the work they do on a daily basis. Through Achieve3000, we can help increase lexile levels of students in order to adequately prepare them for college. This is done by starting not at the grade level they are currently in but at the grade level they currently read at. Meeting students where they are helps breed success and allows all children an equal opportunity to learn. In my classroom, Learning4All will be a collaborative effort that encourages students to challenge each other while still supporting each other. They will use technology at school and home in order to stay connected to the ever changing world and create a community of differentiated learners. We will grow together, we will work together, we will learn together, and we will succeed together
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Montey Stevenson
8/13/2018 08:11:27 pm
During today’s EdCamp, I had the opportunity to learn various strategies that will help me in the classroom. For example, how to utilize the various tools in Achieve3000 to continue to increase our students reading level. I’m excited about this tool because it will help me reach every student in the classroom. There are thousands of articles written at different levels, different language, and an assist button to help students read. Achieve3000 is beneficial to students who are on the lower level. It provides opportunity for growth, measures through assessment and provides feedback.
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Leo Vasquez
8/13/2018 08:12:39 pm
The professional learning environment today was fantastic. As a district of innovation, we live by electronic means. As such, we must be able to stay up-to-date and relevant in the digital world. The three most important learning modalities that will help all of my students learn are: incorporating Spiral and Flipgrid for all classes; updating Google Slides for seamless use by both students and educators; and integrating all of the new features of Canvas for all students. Most important among these is the updates to Canvas. I am thrilled to be able to link all of my Google Slide presentations, assignments, and projects. Students will now be able to update and modify Google Slides from Canvas. This feature is not only a seamless integration of multiple digital mediums, but it will also be a time-saver. Our students won't have to worry about working both platforms in different pieces. They can now work directly in Canvas, without having to switch back and forth. Additionally, the new grading feature (linking grades from Canvas to Skyward) will be greatly beneficial for both students and educators.
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Kendra Ferry
8/14/2018 08:52:21 am
I hadn't seen the grading feature from Canvas to Skyward! Thank you for sharing!
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Misty Merck
8/13/2018 08:36:22 pm
I think all the training today were very useful in promoting student achievement and learning. My first training gave me insight to twitter as a tool to promote student achievement and engage them in learning. Twitter is available to all and can link students and employees to authors, educational sites, and learning groups. Twitter also allows teachers to praise and promote the positive things student are doing in the classroom and the community. The second training I went to was about Google Sites. This is a tool that students will use for life to build portfolios and websites. Students can showcase what they have learned to colleges and future employers. Students can attach work they have done in other classes or produce a new product. All students have the ability to use this product on their laptops and use the internet to develop it. The third training I went to was about Canvas. Canvas is a platform between students and teachers to provide lessons, assignments, discussions and projects. The ability to collaborate over the internet will help students be life long learns. The districts digital equity project allows students to access assignments at home 24-7. If a students is absent short or long term they can stay caught up in their classes. All three training's give students the best opportunity to succeed in any circumstance. Access to assignments and learning ways to prepare them for the success outside of high school is important.
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Gerardo Loya
8/13/2018 08:54:17 pm
Today’s professional learning session was conducted by Cindy Bulloch. She is one of the premier clinicians in the state of Texas in the band world. The session, titled Extreme Makeover Band Program Edition, detailed important goals that will help the students reach the next level in the performance world. Students will be able to set and meet essential goals at both the ensemble level and individual performance level. We learned about daily drills, ensemble skills, and listening awareness that is key to a student’s development as a performer. We also learned how to teach and involve all students to learn and perform as soloists for both solo and ensemble and the all-region/all-state process. One of the most important strategies we learned was how to assess our students. With such a vast number of kids, we have always struggled to assess so many of them. Mrs. Bulloch taught some great tools to assess our kids, many of which involve technology like google classroom. The important thing to remember is to assess, assess, assess, and to have benchmarks. These strategies alone would cause tremendous growth in all our band students. I feel confident with the team that we have that our band students are going to make amazing progress as they develop their performance skills.
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Steve Voth
8/14/2018 08:05:10 am
I learned quite a few things in the secondary edcamp this year. One class talked alot about remaining positive as a teacher. Marrs should have one an Oscar for his performance as a teacher that complained, whined, showed favoritsm etc. It was good to see that the majority have moods as when it comes to teaching. I have a tendency to have a few of those as well so working on that will be a goal of mine.
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Steve Voth
8/14/2018 08:05:28 am
I learned quite a few things in the secondary edcamp this year. One class talked alot about remaining positive as a teacher. Marrs should have one an Oscar for his performance as a teacher that complained, whined, showed favoritsm etc. It was good to see that the majority have moods as when it comes to teaching. I have a tendency to have a few of those as well so working on that will be a goal of mine.
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Josh Cox
8/14/2018 08:08:17 am
Today in our edcamp sessions I learned about how to engage students in reading for social studies by using relevant articles and note taking strategies. I also discovered how to build relationships with troubled students through get to know you activities. Another interesting thing that I learned was how to take virtual field trips through discovery streaming. This will allow students to be able to have experiences outside the classroom without actually leaving the classroom!
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yolanda beasley
8/14/2018 08:13:47 am
Today was a day of refreshing and new learning. Ways to improve my classroom for the betterment of the learning process of my students. Nearpod and Edpuzzle, plus the new features of Canvas are going to make the teaching process more engaging. Creative ways to engage students visually and get and give feedback will make this an exciting year. I can't wait to learn old information for the first time.
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Clint Hawkins
8/14/2018 08:14:37 am
Due to coaching obligations I was only able to attend the two morning sessions of Edcamp. The first was “I have 1:1 Technology, Now What?” and the second was “Achieve 3000 for Secondary New Teachers”. The reason I choose two technology based sessions is because this is my first year being at a 1:1 school and CISD emphasis on utilizing technology is exciting to me.
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Christine Thompson
8/15/2018 11:28:13 am
Clint,
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Kendra Ferry
8/14/2018 08:51:13 am
Today I began our EdCamp day with #WritingtoLearn. This PD was eye opening. As a Science teacher, I struggle to ensure my students are writing effectively and authentically. I will be implementing many new strategies I gained from this session some of those include: summary notes, reflective KWL pieces, and vocabulary story telling. I will also be using the Level Up Questioning Rubric presented to ensure my questions are more rigorous and encourage high level thinking. My next PD was Technology Tips, Tools and Tricks for Tracking Progress in Secondary Science. In the second session we were given different tools to monitor and track student’s progression throughout the year. While some of the tools I had seen before, I really liked the new Marco Polo application. I will be using Marco Polo to have students submit reflections on unit objectives. #Learning4All will be seen almost every day in my classroom. It will be seen in their science journals, on Canvas, and through STEMscopes. I will ensure they are reading scientific articles about twice a week with a summary to follow their learning experience. The use of Marco Polo will be used more in line with an exit ticket to assess learning.
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Christine Thompson
8/15/2018 11:21:26 am
Our afternoon of learning at IMMS was focused around increasing our understanding of RtI and prepare for a new approach to providing RtI on our campus. As stated in The Why Behind RTI (http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/oct10/vol68/num02/the-why-behind-rti.aspx), school districts often focus on the wrong questions in their RTI design. We were able to refocus through meaningful interaction between teachers.
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