Technology Integration 

Presenter: Marc Cicchino

Tentatively Scheduled for October 16, 2024

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

In this workshop, participants will explore MacBook software, features, and functionality that can enhance teaching and learning. This includes the Apple Creativity suite (iMovie and GarageBand), productivity tips (shortcuts and settings), a plethora of built-in accessibility tools that support Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and much more. By the end of this workshop, participants will feel comfortable creating (and asking MacBook-equipped students to create) podcasts, documentaries, short films, and other creative multimedia projects.

*Note: This is a 1/2-day session, 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Presenter: Marc Cicchino

Tentatively Scheduled for October 16, 2024

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

In this workshop, participants will learn the basics of operating the Apple iPad, tips and tricks for getting the most out of the device, and advanced features that can enhance teaching and learning. This includes iPad gestures and shortcuts, iPad apps such as iMovie and GarageBand, accessibility features that support UDL, and much more. By the end of this workshop, participants will feel comfortable creating (and asking iPad-equipped students to create) podcasts, documentaries, short films, and other creative multimedia projects.

*Note: This is a 1/2-day session, 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Presenter: Marc Cicchino

Tentatively Scheduled for September 30, 2024

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

For educators who are already familiar with Canvas LMS and its tools (i.e., Mastery Connect and Canvas Studio), this workshop will explore the many integrations with Canvas. Canvas easily integrates many K-12 tools and apps in one seamless learning experience. Attendees should bring a list of tools and apps that they use, or would like to use, and will learn how to integrate into Canvas and develop for their classroom.

Presenter: Marc Cicchino

Tentatively Scheduled for September 20, 2024

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

For those who already have Canvas LMS and are familiar with the basics of Canvas,  this session will provide additional information/tips. Participants will delve into more advanced features of Canvas such as the Mastery Connect integrated curriculum and assessment tools, as well as Canvas Studio, a communication tool that allows instructors and students to actively collaborate through video and audio media.

Presenter: Allison Beesley

Tentatively Scheduled for January 31, 2025

Recommended for Educators of Grades 6-12

The last few years have seen massive changes in the digital worlds of teachers and students, and one of the byproducts is a cluttered, inefficient cloudspace. Many of us find ourselves lost in our own files, unable to effectively leverage resources and materials, and confusing students who struggle with organization and executive functioning. If you feel like you need a map for your own Google Drive and Gmail, this workshop is for you. Using Chrome and Drive extensions, we will explore ways to monitor student work, assist students with organization, and streamline communication. Participants in this workshop will consolidate their digital workspace, pursue “inbox zero”, make resources more accessible to students, and experiment with tools that monitor and differentiate student work on G-Suite. 

Presenters: Angela Banta & Julia Leibowitz

Tentatively Scheduled for February 7, 2025

Recommended for Educators of Grades 6-12

What does it mean to give teaching materials a “GLOW UP” transformation? Participants will learn how to revitalize their teaching units and increase student engagement using Google Slides. Through examples and modeling, participants will experience how materials can be transformed into colorful, interactive slideshows that peak student interest and foster greater understanding of content. Participants will view “before and after'' samples of units the presenters have transformed, and learn how to use the many features of Google Slides, as well as other websites such as Bitmoji, Slidesgo, and Slide Carnival. Following a demonstration and discussion, participants will be given time to revamp their own teaching materials using the strategies taught, with assistance from the presenters. The goal is for all participants to leave with new, engaging slideshows that will captivate their students’ attention.

Presenter: Christine Massaro

Tentatively Scheduled for March 11, 2025

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

This workshop will offer a variety of technology strategies, apps, add-ons, and chrome extensions for anyone who works in education at any level. Special emphasis will be placed on Google Apps, screencasting tips, and time-saving extensions. 

Presenter: Christine Massaro

Tentatively Scheduled for October 15, 2024

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

This workshop will offer best practices for increasing efficiency using Google Calendar, Gmail, and other Google Apps. Special emphasis will be placed on shortcuts and maximizing time on the computer. 

Presenter: Chris Nerkizian

Tentatively Scheduled for December 10, 2024

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

Media Arts is described as the study of human communication through film, photography, video, audio, computer/digital arts, and interactive media. Come learn more about the new New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Media Arts and how to infuse into the classroom. Participants will explore podcasting, video creation, and other models of Media Arts implementation and are encouraged to share their own ideas and examples with the group.

Presenter: Amy Kenny

Tentatively Scheduled for February 13, 2025

Recommended for Educators of 3-8

Students can use Scratch to create their own interactive stories, games, and animations, while learning to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively. A free programming language and online community, Scratch can be utilized in stand-alone technology classes or integrated into both core and special subject areas. Participants will learn how to create programs, make animations and games and solve programming problems with Scratch 3.0. In addition, participants will learn how to manage classrooms and studios as well as grade assignments using Scratch. 

Presenter: Virginia Senande

Tentatively Scheduled for December 4, 2024

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

The wealth of digital resources for teachers is limited only by time and the guidance needed to discover it. The emphasis is on the opportunity to research and create based on personal needs. The end result can be a hands-on collection of digital resources and lessons or a media production created using websites such as Edpuzzle, Kahoot, Quizizz, Quizlet, Padlet, Canva, Flippity, Powtoon, Socrative, Google Products, Doctopus, Flubaroo, Pear Deck, Screencasting, Wizer, Flip, and many others. Come with a list of things you want to learn and accomplish as you are in the driver’s seat the entire day. Spend the day tackling your personal agenda! Guidance and direction will be given based on the needs and requests of participants.

*Note: Participants are expected to bring a laptop and a personal to-do list for the day.

Presenter: Kelly Stevens

Tentatively Scheduled for March 29, 2025

Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-12

Life hacks should not be available only on social media feeds. Teachers can use 21st-century teaching hacks, or technology skills when teaching students to develop career and literacy skills. These hacks may include, but are not limited to, making the most of a Mac, keyboarding shortcuts, screencasting, workflows, QR codes, and a brief look at what Google can do for all computer users.

*Note: This is a 1/2-day session, 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.