Staff Development

What an exciting year! Already we have had many memorable events as well as small moments that keep me motivated. Change can be anticipated and expected but how we react to change has a huge affect on the eventual outcome. As I contemplate what staff development means to me, I realize that other people may interpret it differently. My goal remains the same, to increase my knowledge in technology, a large spectrum of change. I understand the frustrations that occur in the pursuit of technology knowledge, it's a moving target. To be able to admit that I don't know everything, but I am willing to learn, right along with you is ultimately the best option in technology. The process of finding what works for you, and feeling confident in implementation is necessary for change. How can I help you provide Innovative Learning?

Almost here...

As I anxiously await the upcoming school year I continue to read and network with others in education. I read some information about an initiative in Australian schools to implement one to one computing. I thought I would add my comments here to the original post. Since the new school year is right around the corner and I wonder how will I make an impact this year?

I have been involved with the initiative of technology integration for many years now. I find renewed optimism whenever I read of this type of philosophy towards the use of learning tools. Our school is very fortunate to be participating in year 2 of such a goal. I would love to network our students with those involved in this project in Australia; that would be very cool.

As I reflect on our first year of one to one computing in fifth grade, my role is as technology coach, supporting the tool as the classroom teacher facilitates the content. It was an amazing year. The students adapted quickly to using the tool for learning, even though it was their first time using technology with this frequency. We all learned as the year progressed. Similarly to society, some students excel/adapt quicker than others but all became experts in using the netbooks as a tool for learning. Students also knew who was the "go to guy', when in need of assistance. Ultimately the tools allowed the students to take control of their learning and by doing so, could control when they needed to review information for clarity, investigate further and express/communicate throughout the learning process. As a life long learner these are all things I expect when I am in a learning environment. That is why I try to provide that to my students as well. As I learn more in this new learning environment; I am excited to see what this year brings.

Technology is a tool...

The other day I attended my first Board meeting. I found it interesting and surprisingly formal. The topic that brought me there was the presentation to the Board for expanding the laptop initiative in Littleton Public Schools. Our experiences have been beyond expectations with our first year of one to one computing in the fifth grade classrooms. I was proud to be included in the group that is demonstrating exemplar implementation. It was noted that this did not happen without our teamwork and hard work in the process. It has been a moving target that we are always striving to improve upon. What we have accomplished this year is amazing. But to hear appreciation from those who inspire me the most is truly special and rewarding.

Technology Integration
We are always in the process of improving how you learn at school. We are very fortunate to have many innovative technology tools available for your use. We are working on improving how you use computers in the day with various new activities. Some may require your teamwork and time commitments. We will be using this blog as a communication resource as well as a guide to websites and classroom connections. Look for blog rules (on the right) and read thoroughly. Then come back to this and to post your comment. After you have completed this job, you may look around the site or click on one of the links.
Thank you
Mrs. Bolerjack

Welcome new friends

We are pleased to announce the arrival of our special guests from Uruguay.  They are instructors in their country and have come here to America to learn about our educational philosophies and practices.  Mrs. Duckworth is their host as they visit for the next two weeks.  Click here to view the video from their country.  Again from everyone at East elementary and our community welcome you both!

Talk to me...

I am repurposing the digital dragons to be a larger format blog.  Originally it was mostly for the fifth grade class to communicate.  We have found that two blogs aren't always better than one for our communication purposes.  Therefore this is now the new home for all of the East students and staff to have a chance to speak their mind.  

I had the privilege to visit with Dan Maas, CEO of IT at LPS and Scott Murphy our Superintendent as we toured through the halls and the fifth grade rooms.  I appreciate the opportunity to share the things we do here at East.  I am very proud of our students and staff and what we have accomplished this year.  They were impressed as they noticed the engagement level of the students.  When they asked questions, the fifth graders responded honestly and with the thoughtful conviction that supports my philosophy, if you teach them to be independent learners they will be learners for life.   A balance of management, engagement and control.  Here is a link to Dan's comment on his blog,  thanks Dan.  

Watch for more to come soon, and like I said talk to me, tell me what you think.

Kay Bolerjack