Vermont Fest 2015

This presentation will cover apps and extensions for Google chrome that can support all students. Supports for writing, such as speech to text, word prediction, research, bibliography and annotation apps and extensions will be covered. Additionally, tools to support text to speech, screen casting, podcasting, and executive functioning will be introduced. Case studies of support for students will be examined. Universal approaches to introducing tools will also be discussed. Come learn how one district is supporting more of its students with Google Chrome apps and extensions!

Presenter Material 

Learn how we transformed course content into a digital achievement-based LMS where students earned badge recognition for meeting proficiencies with a “gradebook” set to only “met” or “resubmit.” A high school Biology Unit and a 5th/6th grade Ancient Greece Unit were transformed using Wordpress and BadgeOS to create social, competitive learning communities. We will share our deep dive into the world of badge earning in a blended environment. The goal: engage all learners.

Get ready to become best friends with Dash and Dot, gather your treasure by programming Robot Turtle and star in a short story that you also produce. This workshop will cover the why and how for coding in elementary grades. You will be introduced to different robots, iPad apps, computer games and unplugged activities. Come prepared to try out different resources and commit to taking at least one idea back to your classroom.

Presenter Material 

Using NGSS as a framework, VEEP has designed a unit on climate change for middle schools that incorporates science content and practices in engaging, hands-on lessons. This integrated hands-on, evidence based approach allows students to practice the process of science and see examples of how data is used to reach a scientific conclusion. The curriculum provides opportunities for students to develop and test models and then make connections to real world applications through the use of computer simulations and interactive sites. In this workshop teachers will get all the background information they need to deliver at least 3 climate science modeling lessons, and will be eligible to borrow materials to run the unit in their classrooms.

Our phones are one of the most used pieces of equipment in our daily operations, but what do you really know about it? Joins us as we cover a variety of important topics surrounding your phone system. Topics will include: E911, Erate changes and what that means for your current systems, beneficial unified communications that can streamline your daily operations, and how to put your school in the best position for the future of technology.

With technology making its way into schools there are many risks that were previously of no concern, that we must be aware of to protect our schools, faculty and students from. Come listen to real life examples of security threats that could affect your schools as you transform into the digital world and how to best protect yourself from having these things happen to you.

Wondering how to add a little STEAM into your teaching practice? Join us for a maker experience for the little ones. Let us introduce you to scientific play, engineering exploration and design journals using squishy circuits! Learn how to facilitate an engineering experience with hands-on projects that connect to NGSS and CCSS standards. Come ready to Be Curious, Get Messy and Reflect! Leave with the practical tips, applications and resources you need to get started.