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Before There Was AI…. Wait. What Was Before AI?
It’s sometimes hard to remember that education technology was deep and robust before AI hit the scene in 2023. While we continually hear about how AI is going to directly affect the classroom, it’s also important to understand how it will integrate with the existing ed-tech ecosystem.

Some of the possibilities are truly amazing, and others should be explored with an eye on student (and teacher) privacy. In some cases, the existing ecosystem may actually magnify the impact AI can have while mitigating some of the risks we’re just starting to understand.

Education institutions share a common mission — to provide their students with the knowledge and skills that form the foundations of a successful future. Education technology (ed-tech) is an important driver in reaching this goal, and its advancement is opening the doors to exciting new ways to use it in today’s classrooms. Explore what ed-tech is, how it creates value, and how it’s evolving in a world increasingly influenced by AI.

Remember Ed-tech?

Ed-tech is the collective media and tools that help facilitate knowledge communication, delivery, and exchange. This broad definition can refer to solutions like software, smart devices, and electronics. These empower school faculty to teach more effectively and remotely, promote better knowledge retention, create engaging student experiences, and run more efficiently.

6 Ways Ed-Tech Enhances Education

Learners today expect an interactive experience beyond passive learning through sitting in a live classroom and listening to a lecture. Ed-tech enables faculty to prepare students for future workplaces by providing exciting new ways of interactive learning and engagement.

Among the many benefits of tech in the classroom are:

1. It Supports Diverse Learning Styles

Every student’s needs are unique, and each learns differently. These realities can make it challenging for your workforce to meet diverse demands.

Modern technology can support learning styles and needs in several ways, including online platforms, interactive learning tools, and collaborative experimentation. These solutions empower your teaching staff to deliver materials through different mediums. They also allow students to engage in ways that work for them. For example, an educator can leverage technology to permit students to demonstrate their knowledge through different options. This approach creates more customized experiences while still providing an education of meaningful benefit.

2. It Fosters Better Communication and Collaboration

Modern technology makes communication easier for your workforce, students, and parents. Pupils can readily make suggestions or ask questions that they may be too shy to pose in class by using electronic tools. Teachers and parents can use email for routine communication and video tools for more convenient parent-teacher conferences.

Technology solutions are also ideal for nurturing collaboration between students. Pupils can work together on projects through platforms like text messaging, videoconferencing, and online discussion forums. Existing and upcoming programs can even help your teachers track individual contributions and group effort.

3. It Prepares Pupils for Their Futures

Today’s businesses increasingly rely on technology to power and improve their operations. Whether your future graduates will operate costly equipment or design the next space shuttle, savvy tech skills are essential for their success. Your campus’s classrooms are the ideal places for students to get the introductory skills they need to be confident technology users in the workforce.

4. It Creates an Engaging Experience

Technology and education combine to create more interactive learning experiences. In turn, users have more involvement with the tools they’re using. This association can lead to better knowledge retention, increased subject interest, and higher lesson engagement.

5. It Offers Enhanced Learning

Technology can make learning more engaging and interactive, improving students’ understanding and retention of the information. Students can also access a vast amount of information and resources online, expanding their knowledge beyond traditional textbooks and learning deeper research skills for finding authoritative, credible sources.

6. It Accommodates Inclusivity

Technology can assist students with disabilities and special educational needs, making education more accessible to a wider range of learners. Distance learning curricula and assistive technology such as speech-to-text, subtitles and captions, and keyboard and mouse adjustments can benefit learners with and without disabilities for more advantageous classroom experiences.

Top 10 Trends for the Use of Technology in Education

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The tech environment is dynamic, with innovative new solutions coming to the market daily. Harnessing all the benefits these tools offer means staying on top of trending uses for them. Below are the top 10 ed-tech trends to know to make the most informed buying decisions for your campus.

1. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications continue to grow. Experts anticipate the market to reach $1,345 billion by 2030, with education playing a key role as industry demand increases.

Your teachers will save time using sophisticated tools to automate tasks and enhance the delivery of course material. AI can help them grade objective exams or generate a lesson plan outline in moments. They can then focus on other tasks like completing continuing education requirements instead.

AI is equally beneficial to your entire student body. The technology can help improve their writing and simplify complex topics into easier-to-understand material. AI tools are also ideal for detecting learning gaps and creating personalized, correctly paced learning plans to fill them. This approach allows students to receive the precise help they need to succeed, fostering their motivation and boosting their academic performance.

The typical concerns around AI in the classroom have to do with the authenticity of student work and efficacy of their learning, and potential bias as it recognizes patterns. While there are some answers to those concerns, many others remain.

What is not as well understood are how AI engines work with student data, and how they will need to respect existing laws regarding FERPA Student Identifiable Information, and CIPA.

The Department of Education has published guidelines regarding both the benefits and risks of AI in education, but we should expect this to be an ongoing conversation, not a static position.

2. Cloud Computing

Many of today’s education technology trends begin with cloud computing. The Cloud has become almost transparent, and it’s hard to recall a time when we were concerned with how much disk space we were using. While transitioning assets to the cloud enables access to school resources from anywhere with any connected device, AI also depends on the cloud for storing the vast amount of data it relies on. For a school or district, the cloud remains ideal for:

– Students: Pupils can efficiently complete lessons, collaborate on projects, communicate with their teachers, and access digital textbooks from anywhere, 24/7.

– Faculty: Educators can quickly post and grade assignments, email or conference with parents, and track student attendance and progress.

– Parents: Parents can conveniently monitor grades, communicate with school staff, and digitally sign and submit required forms.

– Administrators: Senior-level staff can review curricula, create and approve budgets and expenditures, and easily manage faculty.

– Employees: The operational workforce can quickly request tools and equipment, manage their benefits, or complete required computer-based training.

3. Online Learning

Online learning — also called e-learning — first debuted in the 1960s through the University of Illinois when it offered on-premise students instruction through linked computer terminals. By 1984, the University of Toronto began offering foundational courses, and the University of Phoenix became the first fully distance-learning college a few years later.

As internet connectivity and home-based devices became more popular during the 1990s, more e-learning opportunities began to appear. These programs supported asynchronous learning, where students complete work around their schedules rather than during a defined classroom time. This approach gives pupils more control over their assignment timing and allows them to develop time management skills. The onset of the pandemic only reinforced the demand for instruction options capable of keeping pace with the many shifting needs.

Today’s technology allows educators to meet students’ learning objectives through smartphones, computers and tablets. Modern solutions let educators use podcasts, videos, simulations and more to deliver captivating and engaging lessons. High configurability and affordability of these formats help ensure this trend’s continued popularity.

AI will help online-learning advance quickly by:
- Accelerating Personalized Learning : AI will help learning systems recognize student learning styles and recommend the content and lessons it has seen individual learners respond to best.
- Smart Content Deliver: Slightly different that Personalized Learning, smart content delivery will recognize gaps in understanding that need to be filled to meet learning outcomes.
- Predictive Analytics: If AI has access to historic student data, it will be able to recognize patterns and suggest interventions to address learning gaps early in a student’s career.
4. On-Demand Video Learning

Humans love videos, a fact continuously proven by social media platforms and television programs that showcase them. Leveraging this medium as a learning tool is a natural progression, and its use skyrocketed during the pandemic when in-person classes weren’t an option.

Video learning offers the flexibility of on-demand access and supports peer collaboration. It’s also compatible with microlearning, which focuses on bite-sized, interactive lessons. That adaptability makes it ideal for team assignments and self-paced learning.

Recent studies have also shown that video is effective at skill-building and enhancing other lesson materials. Many anticipate video-assisted learning to continue rising in popularity as more empirical research proves its value.

AI will help target on-demand video learning via “smart content delivery.”

5. Augmented and Virtual Reality

Augmented and virtual reality (together, often referred to as XR) are two technology trends in education gaining traction. These solutions transform learning into an immersive experience that engages multiple senses. In augmented reality, pupils better view a topic incorporated into their real-world setting. Virtual reality creates an entirely new environment for the student to explore. Both engage learners in a whole new way.

Your institution can equip your teachers with these tools to:
- Conduct virtual field trips.
- Enhance language learning through immersive role-play.
- Travel through outer space, the ocean depths, or the inner human body
AI amplifies the capabilities of XR, making it more engaging, personalized, and practical. As these technologies evolve, their symbiotic relationship will continue to redefine how we perceive and interact with digital and physical worlds.

Enhanced Realism and Interaction: AI Algorithms enhance the realism and interactivity of AR/VR environments. By analyzing real-world data, AI can create more convincing virtual objects and scenes.

Gesture and Voice Recognition : AI will enable natural interaction within XR spaces. Gesture and voice recognition algorithms can interpret hand movements and vocal tone allowing users to interact with virtual environments intuitively.

Personalization and Adaptation : By analyzing user preferences, behavior, and context, AI will customize content, adjust lighting, or modify virtual scenarios.

Data Fusion and Spatial Mapping : AI powered spatial maps enable precise tracking and positioning in AR/VR creating a seamless and more realistic experience.

6. Data and Analytics

AI is already deeply integrated with big data and data-analytics offer ing meaningful insights to school districts and educational facilities. This technology helps capture information on student engagement, progress, and behavior. With the increased visibility, it’s easier for your staff to see what’s working and what’s not. Educators can quickly adjust lesson plans or delivery mediums and pinpoint gaps or students needing extra help.

Pairing data with learning analytics provides even more value. AI can quickly discover patterns useful in planning, interacting, and identifying skill gaps. Predictive analytics deliver insights on who may fail or drop out so you can respond proactively instead of reactively.

7. Gamification

Gamification is the process of applying interactive game-like elements to teaching, a typically nongamified setting. Doing so delivers many benefits for your student body, including:
- Boosting motivation: Presenting pupils with a challenge can spur them to want to learn. For example, they may be excited to complete lessons to earn rewards for their avatar.
- Making learning more fun and engaging: Adding more ways for students to interact with their learning materials raises their enjoyment and participation.
- Increasing knowledge retention: Gamifying curricula powers active learning processes and improves information retention.
- Honing real-world skills: Transforming traditional lessons into game-like ones helps students develop and apply problem-solving, teamwork, self-confidence and fine motor skills.
- Transferring knowledge: Gamifying education allows pupils to test their new skills. For example, they can play detectives and hunt down clues from relevant sources to document the research skills your workforce teaches.
As with assessment and personalized learning, AI algorithms will recognize learners preferences and understand which awards are most likely to encourage learning behaviors.

8. Blockchain

Blockchain is a technology that creates an immutable data record. It records information in small units called blocks, which connect to previous blocks to form the chain. It’s a valuable solution in business and education for data accuracy, integrity and storage.

This tool provides value to facilities like yours for tracking student grades, achievements, and credentials. Because the information is immutable and secure, blockchain reduces the risk of fraudulent transcripts or certifications and helps protect sensitive data. The technology can also help support your academic honesty policies by lessening the potential for plagiarism. Since it creates transparency, security and permanence, experts anticipate its adoption will rise.

AI and blockchain have a natural relationship, offering the potential to address some of the main concerns with AI by enabling:
- Secure Data Sharing: Blockchain ensures secure data sharing among schools and classrooms, providing a transparent and immutable ledger. AI can then analyze this data to improve educational outcomes, maintaining a high level of security and privacy.
- Credential Portability : Blockchain allows students to carry their verified credentials seamlessly across schools, districts, and even into the workforce. AI can match these credentials with placement and enrollment algorithms or job requirements, streamlining the verification process and enhancing credential portability.
- Learning Analytics: The combination of blockchain and AI leads to powerful learning analytics. Educators can track student progress, identify areas for improvement, and personalize interventions. The use of blockchain adds an extra layer of privacy protection, addressing concerns related to data security.
9. Social Media:

Contrary to expectations, social media is proving its value as a helpful educational tool. Institutions worldwide are leveraging it for enhanced communication, creating campus-specific platforms for quick and easy interaction between students and faculty. Pupils can share notes, videos, and study materials or pose questions to their teachers. Educators can post discussion topics, assign students to respond, and facilitate meaningful dialogue. With social media being a daily part of many people’s lives, its familiarity makes it a sustainable and effective format for educational engagement.

10. STEAM Education

Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) have been foundational skills, but the addition of art has transformed STEM into STEAM. Recognizing the importance of balanced instruction and creative expression, educators have embraced this multidisciplinary approach. STEAM exposes students to a broader range of subjects, helping them discover their career interests and providing a more well-rounded education. This evolution in education aligns with the demand for diverse skill sets in the workforce.

AI’s contribution to STEAM curriculum is going to largely draw on how it enables Personalized Learning, Smart Content Delivery, and Learning Analytics. Each of those components are deeply embedded in STEAM curriculums already, helping students find learning experiences that engage them and map to the learning outcomes educators hope for them to achieve.

Common Types of Device Technology Used in Education Today

Modern digital learning tools encompass a variety of solutions to balance student educational needs with budget-conscious technology spending. Today’s classrooms feature advanced equipment, including:

1. Portable Electronic Devices:

Many institutions issue individual student laptops, tablets, or notebook computers for take-home or in-class use, promoting flexibility in learning.

2. Smartboards:

These replace traditional chalkboards and offer recording capability for future reference, fostering interactive and dynamic teaching methods.

3. Projectors:

Easily integrating with computers, projectors display content onto classroom screens or walls, enhancing visual learning experiences.

4. Ultra-High-Definition Televisions:

Wide-screen TV displays enable faculty to play educational videos, movies, microlessons, or mirror their portable device screens, providing versatile multimedia options.

5. Charging Towers:

Centralized device-charging stations streamline organization and ensure devices are fully powered, simplifying technology management.

6. Digital Microscopes and Cameras:

Enabling close examination and documentation of scientific specimens, these devices enhance hands-on learning in science classes.

7. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Headsets:

Creating immersive learning experiences for subjects like science, history, and art, these devices bring lessons to life in engaging and interactive ways.

The integration of these technologies empowers educators to create dynamic and interactive learning environments, preparing students for success in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.

What have we missed?

The whole point here is that ed-tech is constantly evolving… and Moore’s Law doesn’t seem to apply. Innovation is only accelerating. What do you think we missed talking about here? Where do you see things headed next?

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December 12, 2023
K12Leaders Trivia Night – December 19 – 8pm ET

How well do you know A Christmas Story? What about all the 12 days of Christmas or Adam’s Sandler’s Hanukkah song? Test your trivia knowledge as K12Leaders is proud to announce their upcoming 2nd annual virtual trivia night taking place on Tuesday, December 19th in the Virtual Trivia Night Group.

This FREE fun and interactive experience is the perfect way to test your knowledge and challenge your friends. Whether you’re a trivia buff or just getting started, there’s something for everyone!

The night will feature a variety of trivia topics, all centered around the holiday theme. Plus, you can compete for prizes and bragging rights amongst friends and family. So grab your ugly holiday sweater and join us for an unforgettable night of trivia and fun.

The virtual trivia night will start at 8:00 PM EST in the Virtual Trivia Night group and is open to participants of all ages. So, grab your friends and family and get ready for a night of trivia on K12Leaders.

December 6, 2023
AI in Education – Is It Cheating?

As an instructional coach, I get questions about AI every day. In fact, it’s all anyone wants to ask me about these days! It’s not surprising, since these tools have developed so quickly, and (unsurprisingly) already been embraced by our students. Most teachers seem to fall into two opposite camps, the first being “WE ARE DOOMED!” and the second being “This is so cool, let’s use it for everything all the time!”

Obviously, both extremes are a bit troubling. I’ve been using my time working with teachers to try to increase their understanding of the current status and capabilities of generative AI, its limitations and possibilities, so they can make more informed and critical choices about how to manage AI usage in the classroom.

The main concern I’ve been hearing about from teachers is cheating. How, they wonder, can I stop my students from “cheating” using these tools? I don’t blame teachers for asking this question, but it begs some examination of fundamental mindsets and constructs of thought around teaching and learning in general.

Firstly – if your main concern is how to stop a student from using a tool, have you considered the possibility that this tool might be something they’ll need to understand for future career opportunities – those that you haven’t thought about or that might not even exist just yet? It’s natural to want to slow down the merry-go-round of ever-increasing technology, but sometimes we simply have to learn alongside our students. Generative AI may seem like a toy to us right now, but it will be an integral part of many other software tools and many job duties in the very near future. We owe it to our students to take it seriously and learn to guide them in its ethical use.

Secondly, it might be time to consider what your definition of “cheating” is, and if that definition is congruent with deep learning. If your assignments or assessments can be completed entirely by copying and pasting an AI-generated answer, are they asking the right questions? Are students being asked to synthesize and create new ideas (something which the current generative AI models are not great at) or to repeat facts? There’s nothing wrong with committing facts to memory, but we can’t stop there – students must be able to make connections between existing and new information, as well as develop the skills to show what they know, model systems, and communicate clearly in general. How might students be able to do this while using AI tools?

Another thing to consider is the capacity of these tools to accommodate special needs, whether for English language learners or for students with learning disabilities, ADHD, or other needs. Generative AI, for example, might help a student who struggles with organization to get started on a writing task and get their disability out of the way of their capacity to show that they know the content. It’s worth having conversations with your students about how their voice comes out in their writing, considering other ways of having students show what they know, and proactively creating a policy for ethical classroom AI use (if your district doesn’t have one yet).

Finally, don’t discount the power of your own understanding. Take the time to learn how to use generative AI yourself. Creating effective prompts is a science in and of itself! Practice querying AI to create various forms of writing for you. Analyze the output thoroughly – you’ll notice that a good percentage of it is still nonsense (another good thing to point out to your students). If you tend to your own AI user skills, you’ll have a much better idea of its capabilities and limitations, and as your confidence increases, your worries about its potential as a “cheating” tool will decrease.

Posted by: Katherine Livick

Katherine taught middle school for 15 years and spent several years as director of the customer and internal training division for the country’s largest Apple Specialist retail chain. She now develops curriculum for professional learning around computer science and technology integration, and acts as a project manager, coach, and consultant to help teachers improve their practice in Southwest Washington and around the state. She’s a certified Google Admin and Google for Education Trainer, and has quite a number of opinions about coffee, Star Trek and plants.16:17

December 5, 2023
Empowering Educators: The Importance of Continuous Professional Learning
Professional Learning in the field of education can sometimes feel like a one-size-fits-all approach. It is time to change how educators engage in Professional Learning. Education is a dynamic profession requiring constant adaptation to new methods, technologies, and pedagogical approaches. The question is, when does an educator have the time?

The Changing Landscape of Education:

The landscape of education is constantly evolving. The impact of technological advancements, changes in student demographics, and the need for educators to stay current with educational research forces many educators to explore options outside the school day. This is because many school districts are providing Professional Learning opportunities they feel meet the needs of the students and not their educators.

There is research currently being done showing the need for different tactics when it comes to Professional Learning. This includes looking at the individual and the type of Professional Learning that is available. The interactions that educators are part of are crucial for their ongoing growth and effectiveness in the ever-evolving field of education.

Choice and Voice:

There have been numerous research studies on the importance of student engagement in learning when students have a voice and choose what they want to study. Studies involving educator choice and voice are limited. A typical school building will have a span of 1-20 years of experience among its instructional staff. A one-size-fits-all approach does not provide the Professional Learning needs of all educators. There are benefits to having every staff member participate in a Professional Learning experience, but it will not address the personal growth needed by everyone.

“Choice and voice in Professional Learning not only allow school leaders to differentiate professional development, but they also honor teachers’ ability to independently and creatively identify, generate, and implement solutions to problems of practice that elevate teacher engagement, and therefore, student achievement.” – All4Ed

Benefits of Professional Learning for Educators:
1. Improved Teaching Practices: Professional Learning supports educators in refining their instructional strategies, engagement strategies, and integrating new approaches into their classrooms.
2. Enhanced Student Outcomes: There is a positive correlation between teacher Professional Learning and student achievement. This can be attributed to the implementation of research-based instructional strategies and having a deeper understanding of the subject matter and standards.
3. Adaptation to Technological Changes: In the 21st century, technology has been an integral part of education. Professional Learning that incorporates technology helps educators stay tech-savvy and integrate digital tools into their teaching methods. This also supports the engagement of students.
Types of Professional Learnin g:
1. Workshops and Conferences: Attending regional, state, and national workshops and conferences, provide educators an opportunity to learn from experts in the field, collaborate with peers, and gain exposure to new ideas. Educators are given the choice to attend what meets their needs for continued professional growth.
2. Online Courses and Webinars: The flexibility and accessibility of online professional development opportunities support educators who need a more flexible environment. Virtual learning platforms allow educators to engage in learning at their own pace, in their own space, and provide immediate resources.
3. Collaborative Learning Communities: Collaboration within school communities provides the depth of knowledge that is often needed to truly understand how learning standards can be presented. This could include grade-level teams, subject-specific groups, or cross-disciplinary collaboration. The format could be in-person, virtual, or a combination.
Overcoming Challenges:

Professional Learning comes with its challenges. Time constraints, resource limitations, expert trainers, and financial means can all be limiting factors. Many school districts overlook the experts who are right within their organization. Educators who have been identified as comfortable with a craft are often the best at providing Professional Learning to those who seek a similar understanding.

A Culture of Professional Learning:

Professional Learning is a lifelong journey benefiting both educators and students. Allowing educators voice and choice in their continued professional growth decreases the likelihood that an educator will experience burnout. Educators must have options to support a balance between Professional Learning and their instructional time.

The future of Professional Learning must include time, space, and resources for educators to explore areas of professional growth that not only benefit their career path but also their students’ academic growth.

Posted by: Tina Nicpan-Brown, M.Ed.

Tina Nicpan-Brown is a hybrid elementary educator and content developer in Washington State. She was a state finalist for the Presidential Award of Excellence in Math and Science Teaching in 2020, the Regional Teacher of the Year in 2022, and is pursuing a doctoral degree in Instructional Design.
November 29, 2023
K12Leaders is a dumb name. And we’re not changing it.

K12 Educators and the Power of Servant Leadership

Listen, we all make mistakes. And I probably make more than my fair share. I appreciate the grace everyone has in accepting that. Thank you. I am in your perpetual debt!

And it’s important to be willing to laugh at our mistakes… I do that frequently, thinking about the name “K12Leaders.”

One of the questions I get repeatedly about this network we’re building goes something like this: “K12Leaders? What a great idea! I guess it’s not for me though… I’m only a… teacher/instructional technologist/librarian/tech director/school counselor/nutritionist/nurse/facilities director, etc…”

Education, and K12 education in particular, is peculiar in how it at once attempts to build people up but is seemingly structured to emphasize a hierarchy to keep people in place. One of the hallmarks of a leader is how they address that peculiarity. We saw some evidence of this in a survey we conducted in 2022 on teacher satisfaction.

It may be that at times we can’t see what is so close to us… that our school houses are filled to the brim with leaders. Our teachers, nutritionists, custodians, receptionists, and even our superintendents- We’ve structured our schools around the understanding that every functional area in a school requires real ownership and responsibility.

But in the realm of K12, there is a unique humility that characterizes educators and staff at every level. While K12Leaders may be a “dumb” name for this community, take for a moment how often we also refer to service. We are here for those who serve K12 education and who are looking for ways to improve.

Humility and Servant Leadership in K12 Education

The power of servant leadership in education is not acknowledged often enough. It is the very essence of our community. Educators’ humility runs deep. But that humility’s essence is often twisted by both bureaucracy and social stigmas. We’ve all suffered the boorish “joke” at one party or another about “how those who can’t do…” well. You know. But K12Leaders embraces the idea of servant leadership in every corner of the school house.

Educators, too, from teachers to support staff, often downplay their roles as leaders. This humility is not misplaced but rather a testament to the selfless dedication of those who serve their students, schools, and communities. In the words of Robert K. Greenleaf, the founder of the servant leadership movement, “The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first.”

I’m not sure when I first came across the idea of the inverted hierarchy. It may have been the first time I read Servant Leadership. But the concept certainly stuck with me… It starts with the understanding that the most important role in an organization is that of the customer or end-user. In a company, that’s generally the customer. In K12, that’s the student and the community, as suggested by Jethro Jones.

If we take a Student First model of our schools, then it only follows that our teachers are next in-line as they are closest to the Student. The thought of “only” being a teacher can he heard for what it is: misplaced modesty… or a symptom of someone who doesn’t understand a teacher’s true value.

At the heart of servant leadership in education is instructional leadership. It recognizes that educators are not just conveyors of knowledge but also shepherds of growth. By focusing on the needs of students, teachers become servant leaders, providing the guidance and support essential for student success.

K12Leaders acknowledges and celebrates this aspect of leadership. By amplifying educators’ voices and acknowledging their servant leadership roles, the community embraces the humility that defines educational professionals. It promotes the idea that leadership is not about titles but about serving the greater good of the community… the school…the student.

In fact, when I’m asked that question “is there a place for me on K12Leaders” there is only one question I ask. And that is, “Do you think it’s your responsibility to look outside of your classroom, office, or school to find ideas for what you could be doing better?” That’s it. And, of course just about everyone I talk to at conferences is already doing exactly that.

Now there are other aspects of leadership that extend beyond service, and we’ll touch on those in another post. But let’s take this chance to say:

We’re not changing our name.

November 1, 2023
Student Conferences: Maximize the Value of Conference Time
Conferences can be hard.

You have:
- determined which students need support.
- communicated, usually multiple times, in order to find a time to meet.
- held a conference with parents/students/other staff.
Now what?

First, setting the conference up for success is important.

See my previous post on managing virtual parent/teacher conferences.

During the conference, keep the goal in mind. SMART goals, that is. With as much student input as possible, set a short-term goal that is measurable.

Next, consider these tips to ensure you get the most return on your efforts to meet with students.

1. Manage Your Communication.

Where possible, you want to build relationships with students. You do this by tracking previous conversations so that each meeting feels like a continuation of the relationship. I use several Google tools to manage my communication with students and families.

Google Sheets: I use a Google Sheet to keep a list of my students. I use this list to email students my newsletter each Monday. Then, I have columns that record pertinent info, such as IEPs, preferred nicknames, family situations, etc. At conference time, I added a column for communication, which I will cover in more detail below.

Google Calendar: I schedule my meetings in Google Calendar. Where possible, I have students select the time. This way, Google Appointments will automatically send reminders the day and hour before the conference. If I make the appointment, I also make an email that I schedule to be sent the morning of the conference to remind everyone of our meeting.

Google Docs: In the calendar invite, I click Take Meeting Notes.

This creates a doc with the meeting time and attendees. Before the meeting, I made a few notes and set a few action steps. Then, I copied the link for this doc into the conference column of my spreadsheet. Each time I meet with that student, I return to that doc, make a new meeting note, and continue the conversation.

2. Communicate the results of your meeting with all involved.

After the meeting, send a quick summary of the goals that were set and the agreed-upon timeline. Remind of tips and tools that will be needed.

3. Schedule a follow-up.

While you have the person there, decide if you will need to meet again. Often, students will be more diligent in completing a task if they know someone is checking in on that soon.

A follow-up to a conference can mean a few different things.

Do you need to schedule another meeting? If a conference is exceeding 15-20 minutes, it might be time to offer some goals and a follow-up meeting to check in on those goals. This keeps the student’s attention and gives them an opportunity to demonstrate some responsibility for learning.

Even if you do not set up another meeting, schedule a reminder for yourself to check in with the students and parents on the goals set during the meeting.

Celebrate all successes. With this robust tracking system in place, you can easily celebrate small wins. Send a card or email when a student meets a goal. Acknowledge that they have gained a grade level since they started meeting with you. Be sure to emphasize the value they have gained for putting in the extra effort.

Conferences can be hard, but they can also be worth it!
October 30, 2023
Embracing the Future: Verizon Innovative Learning HQ and XR Terra Revolutionize K12 Education

In the ever-evolving education landscape, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Verizon Innovative Learning HQ, in its visionary approach, has emerged as a beacon of innovation, especially in the realm of K12 education. Their powerful partnership with XR Terra is reshaping the educational experience, introducing AR, VR, and 3D concepts to educators across the United States through the XR Terra Educator Foundations Course. This collaboration is not just a step forward; it’s a leap into the future of learning.

A Hub of Innovation: Verizon Innovative Learning HQ

At the heart of this transformation is Verizon Innovative Learning HQ, a platform that has established itself as a vital resource for finding top-tier curricula for K12 education. Providing access to cutting-edge resources and tools empowers educators to enhance their teaching methods and enrich the learning experience for students.

XR Terra: Pioneering the AR/VR Education Frontier

XR Terra, a trailblazer in AR/VR technology, has joined forces with Verizon Innovative Learning HQ to bring immersive learning experiences to classrooms nationwide. Their Educator Foundations Course is a testament to this commitment. It offers a comprehensive program that equips educators with the knowledge and skills to integrate AR, VR, and 3D technologies into their teaching.

The XR Terra Educator Foundations Course: A Game Changer

The XR Terra Educator Foundations Course is a groundbreaking initiative providing a foundational understanding of AR, VR, and 3D concepts. It’s more than just a course; it’s an immersive journey opening up new horizons for educators:

1. In-Depth Knowledge: The course covers the basics of AR, VR, and 3D technologies, ensuring educators have a strong foundational understanding of these concepts.

2. Hands-On Experience: Through practical exercises, educators experience these technologies firsthand, gaining insights into how they can be integrated into their curriculum.

3. Curriculum Integration: The course provides strategies and frameworks for incorporating AR, VR, and 3D technologies into existing curriculums; making the transition seamless and practical.

4. Peer Learning: Educators will connect with peers nationwide, fostering a community of innovative thinkers and collaborators.

The Impact on K12 Education

The partnership between Verizon Innovative Learning HQ and XR Terra is revolutionizing K12 education in several ways:

– Enhanced Engagement: AR, VR, and 3D technologies make learning more interactive and engaging, leading to better student outcomes.

– Skill Development: These technologies equip students with 21st-century skills, critical in a rapidly changing world.

– Diverse Learning: AR and VR can cater to different learning styles, making education more inclusive and accessible.

– Real-World Application: By simulating real-world scenarios, these technologies provide students with experiential learning opportunities.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Education

As we look to the future, the partnership between Verizon Innovative Learning HQ and XR Terra stands as a shining example of how technology can transform education. It’s a call to action for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to embrace these innovations and prepare our students for the world of tomorrow.

The collaboration between Verizon Innovative Learning HQ and XR Terra is not only about introducing new technologies into the classroom; it’s about re-imagining the very nature of education. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, partnerships like these will be pivotal in shaping a future where learning knows no bounds and every student has the tools to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

October 26, 2023
Blended Learning: Clarifying Misconceptions
The term “B.C.” seems to have taken on a new meaning: Before COVID . The pandemic caused us to re-imagine life in many ways. The creative methods people found to connect, lift each other’s spirits, and stay strong amid challenging times were astounding. We adapted. We changed. We often compare our B.C. life to life now, post-pandemic; especially when discussing teaching and learning. Words like “synchronous” and “asynchronous” became part of our everyday vocabulary, and “remote” no longer meant the thing you use to change the channels on the TV. The quick pivot to “online learning” challenged teachers, students, and families in many ways. As we emerge from the pandemic and move forward, many people need clarification on effective blended learning practices and how they differ from pandemic teaching and learning.

What is “blended learning,” and how can you help families, caregivers, administrators, and other stakeholders understand its use to support today’s learners ?

People often use the term “modern” to describe blended learning; however, blended learning existed B.C., before COVID. In fact, these practices emerged decades ago. The pandemic, however, propelled the term “blended learning” to the forefront of educational discussions among educators and families alike, causing misconceptions and confusion. According to Catlin Tucker, “Blended learning is the combination of active, engaged learning online combined with active, engaged learning offline to provide students with more control over the time, place, pace, and path of their learning.” This definition keeps students at the center of learning. The notion that anything “modern” equates to “screen time” is entirely inaccurate. Instead, a modern classroom utilizes space, pedagogy, and technology to break down various barriers, connect learners, enhance creativity, and develop critical thinking skills necessary for success in today’s world. A modern classroom reflects its students . Classrooms will look different because of the culture, structure, and pedagogy. Teachers who create an effective modern classroom carefully design “blended learning” spaces and activities that foster student agency, motivation, creativity, and collaboration. Studies show that screen time for educational purposes positively impacts student learning and development.

A modern classroom reflects its students.
~Nichole Freeman, Modern Classrooms Project

Some stakeholders’ beliefs about “blended learning” stem from the trauma endured during the pandemic. They equate blended learning to pandemic teaching and learning. The following tips may help you educate families, caregivers, administrators, and other stakeholders about the benefits of blended learning to help today’s learners.
- Listen to the concerns of the families you serve. Take the time to find out what they need. Relationships matter!
- A teacher is who you are, not just what you do. Naturally, you keep your students’ best interest at the heart of everything you do. Continue to learn with and for them. Find ways to engage in meaningful professional development that keeps you energized, motivated, and informed.
- At the start of the year, share your instructional practices with families and caregivers in friendly, culturally responsive ways. For example, use closed caption videos of your students learning and sharing their thoughts on how they’re learning. The captions can be translated for families as needed.
- Conduct action research on your practices and use data to inform families, caregivers, administrators, and other stakeholders.
- Invite stakeholders to your classroom to observe (and join) blended learning in action.
- Keep lines of communication open between the classroom and all stakeholders. Share family-friendly information and resources to help educate and shift misconceptions about blended learning.
- Utilize edtech to increase communication and collaboration with stakeholders. For example, allow families and caregivers access to learning management systems, invite them to comment on student work with tools like Padlet or Flip, and offer support to help families stay connected.
The rapid technological advances require us to rethink teaching and learning. “Teaching” can no longer be viewed simply as the “transfer of knowledge.” As educators, we know actual teaching occurs when we’ve connected with our learners – relationships matter . We need to teach and model skills students need to remain curious, active, and engaged learners – they need to be empowered to develop the tools they need to make smart choices as they grow. Blended learning proved effective for student learning B.C. (before COVID) and continues to grow into a powerful way to meet the needs of today’s learners.

Reference: Tucker, Catlin R. The Complete Guide to Blended Learning Activating Agency, Differentiation, Community, and Inquiry for Students. Solution Tree Press, 2022.

Nichole is a passionate learner and educator committed to teaching and learning for over 30 years. She served as an elementary educator, Reading Specialist, and educational leader. Nichole is honored to serve as a Distinguished Modern Classroom Educator and Expert Mentor with the Modern Classrooms Project. She is dedicated to helping educators and leaders create engaging, innovative, learning opportunities with and for all students in a nurturing, caring environment that aims to build relationships and inspire growth.
October 23, 2023
Empowering Students with Teleprompters: A Dynamic Learning Tool You Haven’t Considered
Teleprompters offer a unique and versatile tool that transcends the idea of a recording studio.

In fact, they can be a game-changer in the classroom, benefiting students of all ages, including those with special needs and English language learners. Let’s explore the rich potential of teleprompters as educational aids, emphasizing how they can nurture critical skills like speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Furthermore, we’ll investigate how teleprompters can be instrumental in cultivating confidence and independence in students. The best part? There’s a wealth of free, student data privacy-compliant teleprompter apps available online, making this resource accessible to educators. We’ll also dive into an array of classroom activities, spanning whole-class, small-group, and individual settings, to illustrate the remarkable impact of teleprompters on learning.

Strengthening Core Skills:
1. Speaking: Teleprompters become a dynamic platform for students to practice and refine their speaking skills. This isn’t just about reading from a script; it’s an opportunity to explore pacing, articulation, and the art of effective verbal communication.
2. Listening: The interactive nature of teleprompters engages students in active listening as they sync spoken words with scrolling text. This experience deepens their comprehension and communication abilities.
3. Reading: By reading from teleprompter scripts, students improve their reading fluency, word recognition, and language proficiency. For English language learners, this serves as an invaluable language development tool.
4. Writing: Crafting scripts for teleprompters challenges students to produce concise, well-structured content. It reinforces the significance of written communication in a dynamic, real-world context.
Fostering Confidence and Independence:
1. Confidence Building: Teleprompters offer a secure environment for students to develop confidence in public speaking. The safety net of a script reduces the fear of forgetting lines, ultimately boosting self-assurance.
2. Independence: Students can work both individually and collaboratively in small groups to create and rehearse content. This encourages autonomy and self-directed learning.
Whole-Class Ideas:
1. Interactive News Broadcast: Transform your classroom into a bustling newsroom, with students taking on the roles of news anchors, meteorologists, and sports analysts. Teleprompters bring authenticity to the experience.
2. Storytelling Workshops: Encourage students to craft their narratives, and use teleprompters to share their stories. This activity not only sparks creativity but also hones their storytelling abilities.
3. Historical Reenactments: Delve into history as students research, write, and deliver speeches from different eras. Teleprompters are the key to unraveling the context behind famous historical addresses.
Small-Group Ideas:
1. Debates and Discussions: Engage students in debates and discussions. Teams can create compelling arguments, and teleprompters assist in their persuasive delivery.
2. Language Development: Small groups provide an ideal setting for language development. Students can focus on pronunciation, fluency, and vocabulary growth, all while leveraging the benefits of teleprompters.
3. Group Storytelling: Collaborative storytelling thrives in small groups. With teleprompters, students can collaboratively write and share stories, promoting teamwork and creative expression.
Individual Ideas:
1. Speech Practice: Teleprompters offer a platform for students to practice speeches and presentations independently. This tool empowers them to perfect their delivery and gain mastery over their content.
2. Self-Monitoring: For students with special needs, teleprompters become a valuable self-monitoring tool. They can track their progress and reinforce learning objectives independently.
3. Language Mastery: English language learners can harness teleprompters for self-directed language practice. This self-paced approach supports pronunciation, vocabulary acquisition, and language fluency.
Are you still looking for new ideas? Check out this PDF Bingo Sheet with more ideas… The more you consider the opportunities, the more you’ll find ideas to assist the students sitting in front of you.

Teleprompters-in-EDU Download

Teleprompters are more than just a technological novelty; they are a dynamic educational asset. They nourish vital skills and nurture confidence and independence in students. With the accessibility of free, student data privacy-compliant teleprompter apps, teachers can seamlessly incorporate this resource into their classrooms. By embracing a diverse array of classroom activities, educators can cater to the unique needs of their students, forging an inclusive and engaging learning environment. Teleprompters empower students and serve as a testament to the boundless potential of educational technology.
October 17, 2023
Revolutionizing Educational Collaboration: K12Leaders Mobile puts Learning Networks in the Hands of Educators
Enhanced mobile access and real-time messaging make it easier and more secure for educators to get the support they need when they need it.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Andover, MA – October 4th, 2023 – K12Leaders, a leading network of K12 educators, staff, and administrators, today announces K12Leaders Mobile, delivering a suite of new features enabling real-time professional learning communities. This game-changing platform is designed to help educators find the professional and moral support they need on-demand; enabling more effective learning environments, collaborative relationships, and better student outcomes.

Built by educators, for educators, K12Leaders.com launched their website in 2022 to address the turbulence within traditional social media networks. K12Leaders Mobile makes it easier for teachers, staff, and administrators to access a safe space for collaboration, networking, and professional growth.

“K12Leaders has been indispensable for helping me create better connections and professional support networks over the last year,” said member Dr. Cathy Collins, who is a leader in library and media services. “I’ve appreciated the focused group conversations around topics that matter to me!”

A prolific voice in educational innovation, Dr. Wesley Fryer also added, “As social media platforms continue to evolve, the K-12 Leaders network is a vibrant community to share ideas and make connections among other educational professionals. It’s become an important ingredient of my daily media diet!!”

Benefits: With K12Leaders Mobile, educators can now enjoy the following:
1. Instant Connection: Educators can connect instantly with colleagues, enabling quick collaboration, brain-storming, and problem solving.
2. Mobile Accessibility: K12Leaders Mobile is accessible from any mobile device, ensuring educators can access crucial resources anytime, anywhere.
3. Peer-to-peer Collaboration: Real-time messaging allows educators to engage either colleagues in their own building, or those they may have met at conferences or other professional development events.
4. Knowledge Sharing: Mobile ai-enhanced blogging encourages educators to share their experiences within a safe community of their peers and learning communities
5. Professional Pathways: On-demand professional development and learning pathways
6. Security : Comprehensive privacy options, allowing community members to control their data privacy effortlessly.
“The dedicated educators who initiated this network last year had four distinct goals in mind,” said Michael Bronder, CEO and one of K12Leaders’ co-founders. “Those were to amplify educators’ voices, to provide a safe and comprehensive suite of online collaboration tools, to keep conversations going after conferences and professional development, and to cultivate more authentic relationships within and between districts. This release of K12Leaders Mobile empowers us to offer all these opportunities whenever and wherever our members need them.”

K12Leaders Mobile is available free for educators and can be found on the App Store and Google Play, as well as at K12Leaders.com.

About K12Leaders:

K12Leaders is the leading professional network for K12 teachers, staff, and administrators. Built by educators for educators, K12Leaders has become a innovative platform for educational collaboration and driver of positive change in how educators can work together to improve their own practice, enable professional growth, and ultimately improve outcomes for their students.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact:

Contact: Suzy Brooks

Email: Suzy.Brooks@k12leaders.com

Contact phone: +1 617-213-0201

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K12Leaders, Inc.

90 Main St. Andover MA 01810

https://k12leaders.com
October 17, 2023