Our group of Pilot Teachers (as well as the rest of the staff) are enjoying some well deserved time off. Most think of the Holiday Breaks as Teachers sitting at home just enjoying some extra family time, but what really goes on behind the scenes is a little bit of enjoyment and a lot of preparing to get back to teaching with ambitions of making the next several months better than the first several months.
The Pilot teachers have completed Session 1 & Session 2 of their own training that they will eventually help turn-key to the masses. Session 1, split into 6 sessions, focused on powerful lessons. The Pilot group has spent countless hours learning, discussing, and role playing exactly what a powerful lesson looks like. Simply said a Powerful Lesson in one with which no "Google-able" questions are asked. Students will be challenged to use "HOTS" (Higher Order Thinking Skills) to investigate, learn, and master content with the infusion of technology (21st Century Learning). Session 2, split into 3 sessions (1 remaining when we return to school), is focusing on Internet Safety & Digital Citizenship. Here teachers are collaborating to best show our students what a digital footprint is and how to use technology in their education properly.
What is making this experience so amazing is the comradery amongst the teachers in the Pilot Group. Their ability to share out their successes and needs more work experiences both from classroom trials as well as role playing within the group is proving to be the best Professional Development for all of us!!!
Teaching to a bunch of students is not that hard, teaching to a bunch of teachers playing students is very difficult. However, the buzz in the room was electric. After the role playing session, we reflected and the comments below summarize the day.
"It is absolutely humbling to see how many different ways the other teachers are using technology."
"I felt very supported presenting in front of everyone. I think the fact that we are all experiencing the pros/cons of technology together makes it a risk-free zone."
"As a teacher, I think that this is the best thing that has happened to us. I am not only talking about the technology, but also about the change in culture. This is really revolutionary."
"At first, I hated being the teacher. It was nerve-wrecking. I was intimated by the collective knowledge of the individuals in the room. But, everyone was supportive and kind."
Well I hope everyone enjoys their Christmas as I believe Santa is now over South America and heading our way.
Merry Christmas to all and happy New Year!!!! :o))))
Jason Smith
Technology Coordinator
LMS School #4
Passaic, NJ
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