Technology News

Ideas4us
OnlineClassroom
Prof  Development
Courses
Curriculum
Certification
Media Resource
Presentations
Resources
Tech News
Dynamic Collab.
Empower
New Teachers
New Principals
Tech Leaders
Teacher Focus
Tech Plans
eRate
School Web Sites
Focus Newsletter

Feature Articles
Fall 2008
--------------->

September 2008 update



 

Fall Courses

Multimedia Opportunity

Cyber Bullying

Ideas 4 Us  Update

Tech Showcase 08

Cyber Safety Conference

Professional Development

Website Ideas

 

Technology News

 

Multimedia Opportunity from the Division of School for your students:

ESchool has a steaming  news program dealing with the most interesting technology innovations of the day, http://www.eschoolnews.tv/ . You might find this site a quick way to keep up-to-date on the newest ideas dealing with technology.

This site also provides an idea for our schools. When you go to eSchool's Techwatch listen and watch for just a few minutes to get acclimated. Then look for the tab that links to the Empowered Education Awards, How We Use Technology to Learn. Watch a couple of these 3 to 7 minute videos produced by students. The titles will appear in a box at the bottom left of the screen.

Students in our schools could produce such videos. To empower multimedia projects such as these, the Division of Schools purchased 20 Flip Video Camcorders that can be used on a loan basis for project based learning by teams of students. The Flip is a small camcorder that connects via USB port to your computer. Videos can be downloaded and production can take place in Windows Movie Marker, a free program found on almost every PC. (http://www.theflip.com/products_try.shtml )

We would love to publicize your students' work on http://ideas4us.com  Imagine the excitement of seeing a brief video (up to 3 to 5 minutes) on our site, on your own school site or even in teacher tube http://www.teachertube.com/

Reserve a set of Flip Video Camcorders for a Multimedia Project.
Sign up here:  Your user name = archteacher and your pswd = sharepoint

Back to top of page

 

 

 

 

Cyber Bullying is becoming an all too frequent event, an event we can help to prevent. Yes, all our schools have acceptable use policies. We require both parent and student' signatures to ensure that the Internet and school resources are used appropriately. But we need to do more. We need to teach our students  to consider the consequences of cyber bullying both to the victims and to the bullies. 

Students will understand more clearly when they are the authors of their own cyber bullying presentations and collectively produce cyber rules to teach others. We’ve seen this done so effectively in Wikis produced by teams of students. Why not let our students do the research and publish their own documentation. Here are some resources you might want to use to get such a project started. Could older students work with younger ones in such a project? Could students produce a video podcast (vodcasts) to share in http://ideas4us.com or on your own Web site?

Here are some resources to get you started:  http://wiredsafety.org/
Wired Safety provides help, information and education to Internet and mobile device users of all ages

http://www.staysafe.org
this site gives statistics from http://isafe.org/ on the prevention of cyber bullying

http://www.bullying.org
this is an extensive Canada-based site with lots of resources, including facts about bullies.

Back to top of page

 

 

Cyberethics, Cybersafety and Cybersecurity
2008 Annual C3™ Conference

 

REGISTER NOW! for the 7th Annual C3™ Conference

The core mission of the C3™ Conference is to inform the educational community about the ethical, legal, safety, and security implications of technology use and how educators and parents can apply these concepts to their own setting. This year includes tutorial sessions and practical applications that can be immediately applied to your home or classroom setting.  A display area has also been added to share cutting edge products with attendees.

Participants will hear from a number of National Educational Technology and Information and Assurance Technology Experts on topics including Acceptable Use Policies, Copyright, Promotion Strategies for Academic Integrity and Character Education, Ethical Development and Decision Making, Privacy, Cyber bullying, Identity Theft, Educational Curriculum Options for Ethics, Security and Safety. Through a variety of presentations, case studies and group work, participants will give consideration to responses that can be applied in their own settings. Participants will also learn how to get more actively involved in National Cyber Security Awareness Month and the National C3™ Baseline Study.

Registration cost ($75) includes: conference sessions, workshops, keynote luncheon, snacks, materials and CD

Back to top of page

 

 

 

                                                                       Website Update

The http://ideas4us.com website had 22,189 hits as of August 27, 2008. Although it is obvious that the site was not designed by a graphic designer, each year, our site goes through an ease of use update to ensure easy navigation and quick answers to important topics such as re-certification. A Website for educators in a school district should have many resources including policy, curriculum, grant ideas and even digital communication. This year the emphasis will be on including more interactive, dynamic sites in addition to those already created for New Teachers, Empowerment, Technology Leaders, New Principals and ERate. Did you notice that links to our schools’ Websites has been added? Those who present at the ABCCE (Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic Conference on Education) are invited to send their presentations for virtual access after the conference.  What do you think we need? Send ideas to: credline@archbalt.org

Back to top of page

 

 

 

Our Technology Showcase  for the 08/09 school year is part of the ABCCE conference.
There are many superb opportunities to learn more about Technology on October 6 and 7.
Presenters offer topics on addressing  learning styles, differentiating instruction, social networking, wikis, blogs and podcasts, really simple syndication ( RSS), Quia (foreign language on the web), virtual communication,  Moodle, SharePoint, music and cyber bullying.

If you heard our cornerstone presenter, Principal Paul Barker, at the Technology Showcase last spring you know he has a message of affirmation for all us who believe technology can and will transform learning. Recommend his presentation to the leaders of your school. His message is truly important. Find frequently updated news about the conference here: http://ideas4us.com/ABCCE.htm


Back to top of page

 

Professional Development with Technology


Our courses, designed to give practical experience with technology and also as a re-certification pathway, are becoming more and more popular. This summer about 200 teachers took advantage of this effective and important way to gain practical educational ideas.

The approval process for having Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) approve new courses takes time. After an introductory letter is written explaining the need for the course, a syllabus is submitted, a resume for the instructor and the appropriate MSDE form is filed. There is about a 3 month waiting period.

We currently have 24 courses approved by the state department, each course all participants to earn continuing professional development, CPD, credits. You can see a complete listing of courses here: http://ideas4us.com/msde.htm These approved courses can be taught by a qualified educator at your own school.

Does your school currently offer any of these courses for your own educators? The process for making this happen is outlined here: http://ideas4us.com/process4teaching.htm

 

Back to top of page

 

 

Web Site Ideas:

Most comprehensive Website listing
 http://www.allmyfaves.com/


Best Resource Sharing Blog 2007
http://tipline.blogspot.com
 

Best Librarian Blog
http://heyjude.wordpress.com

Diigo if a free bookmarking tool that gives user a digital highlighter to mark important ideas as well as free annotator to tool to add ideas.
www.diigo.com

Back to top of page


 

 


 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 2008 Update

ABCCE      Summer Courses    eRate     Re-certification    Technology Plans
 

ABCCE Presenter Proposals


With so many of you out there with so many important ideas to share in utilizing technology, I am waiting to see your proposals listed among those already posted for the ABCCE conference. I can only imagine that some of you worry about no Internet connectivity (the convention center charges $1000 for each connection). But let me assure you there are ways around this.

·         The easiest solution is to make screen prints of what you want to show from the Internet and copy and paste them into your PowerPoint. Not only is this easy but the process absolutely assures that your audience will see what you want them to see when you want them to see it. In fact, that is the way I always present at conferences. If I get to the Internet, that’s good and if I don’t my presentation goes on without a hitch. Besides that, I have a ready presentation that doesn’t require much thought on the day of presentation and can be given over and over again. It’s really the way to go!

·         I have a dial-up connection through my phone and am able to get Internet anywhere. It is cheap and easy (about $20 for the connection and about $5.00 a month fee.

·         I also have a USB connection to the Internet. (I  have been seeing these offered in new phone deals for free) Not as cheap (about $40 a month but really a valuable tool. If you travel around a lot, this is such a wonderful tool.

If you are worried about bringing your own laptop and projector, please don’t worry. We’ll have a guarded storage room for you.

So with all that said, what are you waiting for?  Sign up now directly from http://ideas4us.com
the web database has an editing button. After you register your intent, you can always go back and make changes later. Do it today!

You will be helping your fellow teachers. You will be advertising the good things that are happening at your school. And being a presenter at a State wide conference looks great in your resume or portfolio. Furthermore, we need you! 

The opportunity to present will soon close. Don’t delay.

Principals, please encourage your teachers to present at the ABCCE Conference. What a great way to reaffirm their important efforts.

Back to top of page

 

 Summer Courses

From June 16 through Aug 15, teachers in the Archdiocese of Baltimore will be taking courses to assure re-certification credit. The courses are taught by their peers in our own schools. This is absolutely the best way to get those re-certification credits and create projects they will use next year in their own classrooms. Our instructors are all experienced teachers who have received rave reviews from class participants in the past. This is a real example of authentic learning.

Teachers, please sign up today.  Why wait? If you sign up now you will assure your spot in a class. Some classes will soon close because they have too many registrants. Some will close because they don’t have enough.  In either case, you may not get the class you need if you wait to register. Help us all and register your choice.

Each course cost $135 payable at the first class by check made out to the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Take advantage of this remarkable opportunity to learn valuable skills applicable to your own classroom.

Here’s the link: http://ideas4us.com/summer08.htm

Back to top of page

 

 

Re-Certification:

Please, PLEASE remember the rules for successfully completing your MSDE re-certification are found online on our own Website.  Go to the main page of http://ideas4us.com and click on Certification or go directly to http://ideas4us.com/Certification.htm  Check this site often. Changes are made frequently.

In summary, we are getting expert help specifically for Catholic Educators from MSDE for those who first read and follow the directions found on the links above.

All Certification information from MSDE is communicated via the web and email so be sure to include an email address whenever you correspond with MSDE. 

Send your inquiries on school stationary so that you are clearly identified as a Catholic Educator. MSDE also needs your SS#

 Download verification of experience forms from the website above if you are new to our school system or have a PEC certificate. You’ll also need to send your background check and fingerprint information that is located in your school office.

And if you have never been certified before go to a college or university that has an MAT (Masters in Arts in Teaching) program to find out what you need to do to become a certified teacher.

Back to top of page

 Erate


The final eRate meeting to assure that you get the funds you so diligently applied for will be held at St. Ursula’s School. 8900 Harford Rd on August 7th. from 10am to 12 noon.  Please get this date on your calendar. Each year, schools do the hard work of getting approved for eRate and miss the final step. Don’t let this happen to you.

 

Technology Plans

And if your technology plan has not been approved by me, it needs to be.  Plans must be approved every 3 years by someone certified by Schools and Library services. This plan does not have to be complicated or lengthy. For requirements look here: http://ideas4us.com/tech_plans.htm  Time is running out on this requirement. Plans must be approved before you file the final form or pay vendors.

Like the Certification process the rules are very specific but unlike Certification not complicated.  In recent years more and more schools have been audited and had to produce signed plans. Don’t get caught.

Back to top of page

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Technology Leaders Graduate from AOB Certificate Program

We are pleased and honored to announce that 12 members of our cohort, who received scholarships from the Catholic Family Foundation, are awarded Certificates of Specialization in Educational Technology Leadership.

The following Catholic educators have completed at least four courses in the Technology Professional Development Program of the Archdiocese of Baltimore (AOB).

In addition, they have completed a practicum requiring mentoring colleagues and instruction of students in the use of online learning management system tools.   

Many of the following have already become instructors in the AOB professional development program.  All are invited to take part in this exciting, collaborative effort to build teams of technology specialists in every school.  

Please join me in congratulating the following participants and personally awarding them their Certificate of Specialization in Educational Technology leadership.

bulletCathy Ellis, St. John Regional School
bulletPaul O’Hearn , St. Mary , Annapolis High School
bulletMailene Kelly , Archbishop Spalding High School
bulletSusan Lakomy , St John School , Westminster
bulletRodney Nesvold, Monsignor Slade School
bulletKaren O’Connor , Mother Seton School
bulletJulia Rogers  Library Media Center
bulletLaura Rimkus, St Margaret School
bulletSophie Ritz,  Mother Seton School
bulletJillian Rydel  , St. Augustine
bulletAngela Skonickie , Archbishop Spalding High School
bulletPatti Williams,  Mother Seton School

 

Tech Showcase 2008

On March 3 at The John Carroll School, more than 300 Catholic educators representing high schools, middle schools and elementary schools met for a day of sharing best practices in using technology as a tool for learning.

The hallways of the main floor of the school came alive with the work of about 30 posters presenters, many of them students, eager to talk to their audience and share their important work.  

MPC/Gateway provided hospitality as well as shipped in more than 25 table PC computers for the Showcase audience to see, touch and feel pen-based computer concepts. Paul Barker, principal, offered a keynote address in which he encouraged all educators to embrace the idea of "going into the new." 

Break-out sessions, involving an additional 30 presenters, filled rooms to overflowing and offered insight into blogging, podcasting, video production. Web 2.0  as well as many more cutting edge topics.

Hands-on labs  allowed participants to learn about the latest Microsoft products, tablet PC technology, pen-based computer input and dynamic Web site creation. The day was filled with exciting opportunities for learning, collaboration and networking that left most who attended alive with possibilities to implement in their own schools.


Back to top of page

 

Principal Web Designers

Whole School Interactive Web sites  Authored with Principals' Input

Two of our elementary/middle school principals are leading the way toward implementing whole school communication through Website possibilities.  Both schools  are working with teachers, students, and parents in offering opportunities to communicate through their school sites.  

Sr. Helen Wiegmann, S.S.J., Our Lady of Grace, in Parkton, Maryland,  maintains a principal's page for teachers and parents, alike. while Pat Schratz, principal of St. Augustine School in Elkridge Maryland, is an author in her school’s SharePoint site.

Both administrators model their enthusiasm and encouragement for members of their school communities.  Every teacher in both schools has created a  Webpage with information for parents and students, alike.


 

Practicum Course Develops Online Leaders

In the Spring Semester of 2008, twelve Catholic Educators put together online courses, studying best practices in distance learning and involving students in online communication. Perhaps the most unique part of the practicum is that those participating teach at many different levels, grades 2 through 8, as well as high school Social Studies, Physics and English. Those who believe that such a diverse group of educators would have little in common would be surprised to see this effective, collaborative, community at work. Not only are the course participants benefitting from their study but so are their students who eagerly communicate through Web-based discussion and online teamwork.

Back to top of page

 

eRate brings Funding for Technology


When the final figures for the 2007 school year were calculated, our schools collectively brought in more than $200,000 in funds from the national eRate program. This figure has risen each year from  a total of $40,000 just two years ago.

In the new 2008 year, we hope to once again significantly increase that figure. The Mid-Atlantic consortium funded our training held in November and December of 2007. Four school in the highest poverty areas received extensive, all inclusive, assistance hopefully boosting our funding rate to the highest level ever. A final training sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Catholic Schools Consortium will be held in July to assure the final steps in attaining the funds.

All our schools should check the dates on their current technology plans. Plans are only good for three years from date of approval. Current approval is necessary to receive funding. Details of technology planning and approval are found here: http://ideas4us.com/tech_plans.htm

Final meeting to assure that schools that applied receive their funds....August 7th (location TBA)

 

 

Summer Courses, 2008

Every week from June 16th to the last week in July offers different opportunities to participate in  Maryland State Department Education approved courses worth 3 continuing professional development credits.


All courses encourage educators to use technology in service of the curriculum. Offerings  meet the needs of novice through advanced technology participants.  New to our offerings this year is are two  courses, one in Digital Storytelling and the other dealing with authoring Web-pages with the latest Web 2.0 tools.

You'll find more details and Web-based registration here: http://ideas4us.com/summer08.htm

 

Back to top of page

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Technology News
Archdiocese of Baltimore, Division of Catholic Schools

November, 2007

Professional Day
News Reported

Technology Showcase
Accepting proposals NOW!

Awards Presented

More opportunities for  Awards for your School

Sharing the Good News

Professional Development Courses to meet your School Needs

ERate
Ready Set GO!

 

Professional Day News Reported

The Professional Day for Archdiocese Technology Leaders gave many the opportunities to network and share important ideas. Our audience was grateful for the presentations dealing with best practices in using  Microsoft Office 2008, Vista operating system and SharePoint 3.

Suggestions from the participants include more opportunities for networking and hands-on sessions. There is a request for a lesson plan sharing space. A central location of such lessons is here: http://sp.mdtechcenter.org/redline/open/Lesson%20Plan%20Sharing/Forms/Standard.aspx
user name archteacher with pswd SharePoint.
In addition technology leaders now have a new collaborative web space devoted to inter-school communication
http://sp.mdtechcenter.org/redline/open/default.aspx
Let’s watch these lesson grow!

Back to top of page

 

Sharing the Good News
Reported in the evaluation of Professional Day Survey

                Judy Robison of St John’s Catholic Prep reports that her school is using Moodle to enhance problem solving, critical thinking and student collaboration. This school offers professional development online. If you would like to know more about their exciting work contact Judy jrobison@saintjohnsprep.org  for a guest account.   Go to http://64.181.56.170   St. John’s Catholic Prep is also using Edline and Grade Quick.  
               

 

                Lori Snyder of St. Augustine School is proud to announce that their school is using Tablet PC’s to their best advantage.  Last year faculty received their tablets and this year, St. Augustine purchased  31 brand new HP Tablets for use in the middle school.
               

                Pat Stelmaszczk , Father Kolbe School, is working more extensively with SharePoint 2 using their own server donated by a local business. Last year several teachers took a course in utilizing SharePoint and their enthusiasm for online sharing among students and faculty alike just took off.

                 

                Patti White, St. Clare School,   reports that enthusiasm is ALIVE for integrating technology into the curriculum. Middle School students are not only proficient in MS Office use but are learning to build computers. Their problem solving and teamwork skills are increasing steadily. St. Clare’s school uses technology to communicate with parents, students and faculty.

               

 Cathy Urban, St Clement School, posts video to   http://Teachertube.com

Crusaders of Learning finds full implementation at her school. Each day more and more teachers are discovering the power of online communication with one another, parents and students.

 

               

            Karen Sampson, St. Joan of Arc School, announces the launching of a new school website. All teachers have their own areas for posting homework, newsletters, announcements and  class work. Approval of an upgraded server and network has faculty, students and parents excited about new possibilities for using Technology as a tool for communication and learning.

 

Back to top of page

 

 

               

 


Awards Presented
Schools applied through the Professional Day survey

Tim Wedra, Teachers and Technology awarded several of our schools complete SharePoint 3 domains allowing all teachers and administrators to have personal websites and all the interactive capability of online sharing. Tim is a long time friend and trainer of teachers in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. In partnership with the Division of Catholic Schools Tim hosts our website http://ideas4us.com and all our online capabilities with SharePoint. SharePoint is a Microsoft Product with full capabilities of an online learning system. New opportunities for sharing information, communication, collaboration and presentations being developed almost daily. Teachers in the AOB can view some of SharePoint's’ capabilities by participating in the Technology Leadership  site.  http://sp.mdtechcenter.org/redline/open/default.aspx
u
ser name ….archteacher  with  pswd of   SharePoint
Patty White, St. Clare School,  and Lori Snyder,St. Augustine School, have both been given whole school sites. We’ll look forward to seeing their schools highlighted in the Technology Showcase, March 3, 2007.

Tom Murdock awarded the following school use of Moodlerooms.

Patricia Stelmaszczk—Father Kolbe
Moodlerooms, a Baltimore based company, is excited to share their knowledge of Moodle with the Father Kolbe School this year.  Moodle is web-based software that allows schools to extend their brick-and-mortar classrooms into online discussions, collaborative areas, and integrated calendars and grade books.  More than 14 million teachers and students, belonging to 36,000 distinct Moodle installations, hailing from more than 75 countries use Moodle today.  Moodlerooms is a company organized by teachers that provides Moodle hosting, training, and support to more than 360 organizations around the world.  http://moodlerooms.com
We’ll look forward to seeing  Father Kolbe school highlighted in the Technology Showcase, March 3, 2007

 

 

Schott Loomis, Regional Sales Manager of Tech4Learning  http://tech4learning.com/donated complete lab sets of Multimedia Software to the following schools: (In addition the winning schools will receive extensive training and support ensuring best practices and technical skill in the use of the new software.) These schools will present their student’s best work at the Technology Showcase, March 3, 2007

 

Maria Scott, St. William of York, won a complete lab set of software, Frames, which allows students to create multimedia Pod Casts, movies, animation and more.

 

Maria Starcher, St. Joseph Fullerton, won a complete lab set for the multimedia software, Blender. With this tool students can create rich web sites with text, graphics, and sound to share school reports, field trips, photo galleries, hobbies, and much more. Web Blender's intuitive tools has a friendly interface let you focus on the content, and not your web-authoring tool.

 

Sally Moran, Monsignor Slade School, won Pixie. Pixie is exciting creativity software with an array of paint and easy-to-use image editing tools. Users of all ages can manipulate images and design original artwork. Edit images by applying a variety of graphic effects and cool edges to photos. Create original art using unique paint tools, shapes, and fill options. Tell stories using pictures from the sticker library.  

Back to top of page

 Other Important Awards available for your school

 

Impatica   http://www.impatica.com/imp4ppt/

is an innovative tool for compressing PowerPoint presentations. If you teach students ( and faculty) to create PowerPoint presentations and you have web server where you would like to store their work either for internal use or the World Wide Web,  Impatica is a necessity for you. Impatica for PowerPoint simply converts the PowerPoint file into a compressed format that is optimized for streaming over the Internet. The Impatica file is typically 95% smaller than the PowerPoint HTML files. Furthermore, no one needs PowerPoint to view the files and all work is un-editable preserving each original presentation.


If your school would like to pilot this program with a whole school license please contact Carole Redline credline@archbalt.org Carole has been using the product for many years and is thrilled with its ease of use, and its possibilities of sharing student or teacher work with families and friends.

 

David J. Manley, president and developer of Crusaders of Learning,  https://Crusadersoflearning.org has offered the new Learning Management System, free to Archdiocesan schools during the 2007-08 school year. Crusaders of Learning has been designed to meet the needs of the elementary school student.

Crusaders of Learning provides teachers one place to manage educational standards, lesson plans, and student assignments. Teachers match the objectives of their lesson plans to the relevant educational standards that apply to their curriculum.

This learning management system allows teachers to build a portfolio of effective lesson plans and assignments that can be easily refreshed, updated, and presented again - saving preparation time each session. Lesson plans, designated as shared by other teachers, can be reviewed on-line, which facilitates networking with colleagues sharing methodologies, educational materials and research.

Other features available within Crusaders of Learning: creating on-line tests, hosting on-line conferences with voice and image, hosting chat rooms, monitoring collaboration activities, posting to event calendars, and managing the notification and registration of Parent/Teacher Conferences, and Consent and Permission authorizations.

To date all students in grades k-8 are active participates in Crusaders of Learning at St. Clement M.H. ERate School. New Archdiocesan accounts with Crusaders of Learning are the following: Our Lady of Hope/ St. Luke, St. Marks Catonsville, and St. Augustine School.

To request an account with Crusaders of Learning go to https://Crusadersoflearning.org

Back to top of page

 

 

 

 

 

eRate help offered Nov 14 and Dec 12

Although registration for eRate training officially closed on November 2, you are still invited to attend. When registering late you may have missed the documentation that was sent contact credline@archbalt.orgto make sure you have everything you need for the meetings.

At the Superintendent’s luncheon, Dr. Mary Ellen Hrutka announced the Consortium’s plan to support our schools in gaining important eRate funding by providing us with an expert in the field, Jason Koch, to guide us in our work.  Jason is leading two workshops one on November 14 and the other on December 12 at Graduate Centers Timonium Campus. 2034 Greenspring Drive, Timonium, MD 21093. After these sessions Jason will continue his guidance through online assistance and another workshop planned for July or August to assure that you receive the funds for which you have been approved. 

If you are satisfied and confident in your eRate application, this message is not for you. By all means continue to do what works for you. But if you feel you could use more assistance in preparation of these government forms, please plan to send a representative to either the workshop for those new to eRate or to the workshop for those familiar with eRate.

If your school has a high poverty level of 75% as represented in free and reduced lunch and textbook funding, Mr. Koch will be able to provide more extensive services throughout the entire project. This is an opportunity you cannot afford to miss!

You can still register to attend.  Registration Process is as follows:

Go to http://ideas4us.com/e-rate.htm
Your user name is ……….erate
Your password is…………sharepoint

In the Blue sidebar click on either, Register1 (experience)…..or Register2 (new to eRate)

Choose New….New item

Fill in the information and click OK
Please note, in a very few instances, your school’s filtering software may be blocking communication through our SharePoint services. If you get an error message, please discuss adjustments with your network support staff. While the problem is being fixed, you will be able to register from your home or many other places that have Internet connectivity.

We are confidence your participation in the project will yield excellent returns for your effort.

Back to top of page


Technology Showcase
Accepting Proposals NOW

 

Go to http://sp.mdtechcenter.org/redline/open/default.aspx

User name…..archteacher
Pswd…..sharepoint

Registration is available through the blue quick launch bar running down the left side of the screen.

 

There is no better way to highlight and showcase your students ‘excellent work then to present a tabletop/ poster session at the Technology Showcase on March 3. If you register NOW to publish your students work in this important way, the job will be easy. Start collecting their work and let them know that those who show good problem solving and collaborative skills will be chosen to represent your school. Please share!

 

Also register to provide a break-out session. During professional day, leaders asked for hands on sessions in the new Microsoft products and as well as Moodle, Crusaders and SharePoint3.

Also requested was a session on free or inexpensive ways to equip your school, lesson plan sharing, and other networking sessions. You may have even better ideas. Register now!

Back to top of page

 

 

 

 

 

Professional Development Opportunities to meet your School Needs
Time to Plan for courses in the Spring Semester

 

The professional development courses which run for our schools, in our schools, by our leaders are alive and well. More and more school schools are recognizing the value of these courses. Particularly in the field of technology, leaders are compelled to provide professional development for their teachers. The Archdiocese Strategic Plan lists this goal and eRate funding demands it as do almost all grant opportunities.

Having courses that involve integrating technology into the curriculum are an important way to develop the teams of collaborative leaders needed in each school. As more and more teachers are trained, the school reaches new heights in meeting the needs of the whole community of learners at each educational institution.  Courses other than those particularly dealing with technology are available, also.

 

Look at these requirements:  http://ideas4us.com/process4teaching.htm

 Consider these courses: http://ideas4us.com/msde.htm

 Contact Carole Redline who will help you implement your plan.  
Back to top of page

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Technology Website Redesigned

Ideas 4 us, http://ideas4us , the division of Catholic Schools, technology Website, has become an important resource for sharing information.  Although the site has only existed for about a year,   the information it contains has been used by many teachers and administrators to quickly locate current opportunities concerning professional development, certification,  eRate, technology planning, and other official Division of Catholic Schools policy. In addition the site provides a pathway to our online courses and opportunities for project sharing.

In order to keep the Website viable and easy to navigate, the design has been revised and updated.  More opportunities for collaboration have been added.  Ideas4us acts as a portal not only for resources but also for our SharePoint services and collaborative efforts. New classrooms have been added for administrators, new teachers, the teacher focus group, Project Skip, Student Empowerment and eRate collaboration.  What ideas do you have about information that should be included?  Do you need access to a new SharePoint site?  Contact Carole Redline credline@archbalt.org . Back to Top of Page

 Fall Courses in Continuing Professional Development offered by AOB instructors

In
 an effort to provide archdiocesan teachers with quality professional development eight courses are being offered through Archdiocese of Baltimore Continuing Professional Development (AOB, CPD). Some of these courses are for all teachers and administrators in the Archdiocese of Baltimore and others are being offered for specific school educators in their own schools.  Topics include Internet Safety, Multimedia, Brain Research, Effective Discipline, Inspiration mapping, and online course creation.   Information and online registration is found here http://ideas4us.com/fall07.htm

There are currently twenty-one courses that have been approved for Maryland State Department CPD credit. This summer three pre-algebra and algebra classes were added to the offerings. In addition a course on Technology planning has been added.

More schools are inquiring about holding courses at their own facilities to meet the specific needs of their faculty. Many administrators are exploring ways to use title II funding to sponsor faculty participation.  Contact Carole Redline for further information.
SBack to Top of Page

 

Teacher Re-Certification with Maryland State Department of Education

Carole Redline has become the new liaison between the Maryland State Department and division of Catholic Schools for teacher re-certification.  In order ensure that our teachers have the correct information about the process, which differs significantly from the public schools, a new site has been posted, http://ideas4us.com/Certification.htm#Procedure_

This site contains procedures that must be followed carefully and information on senior exemption, verification of experience, and links to important MSDE tracking of progress in the renewal process.  Please read this important information carefully. Back to Top of Page

 

You won’t want to miss this important eRate Opportunity at Loyola Graduate Center,
2034 Greenspring Drive, Timonium, MD 21093 on November 15 and December 12

As of August 2007, forty-eight of our schools have applied for and received authorization for eRate funding in 2007. The total funds approved amounts to about $153,000. Although this represents an increase in schools making application and increase in funds received of about $80,000, imagine the funds being left untapped by schools who have not applied.

All our schools are eligible to receive funding but many don’t apply. There is a common misconception is that eRate is only for schools with a high poverty index. In reality the schools who spend the most on technology receive the most funds.  And the schools who have professional help in filing eRate receive the biggest returns. The process is complicated but with expert help not only possible but rewarding.

Therefore, the Consortium of Mid-Atlantic Catholic Schools through the guidance of Dr. Mary Ellen Hrutka has proposed that professional guidance be provided to all our schools through Jason Koch, Dynamic Network Solutions.  Jason’s expertise in eRate consultation is highly documented. We are extremely fortunate to have him facilitate our eRate efforts and very grateful for the consortiums effort to assure that all our schools receive the money they are entitled to.

Jason will lead eRate training on  November 15 and again December 12 at the Loyola Graduate Center in Timonium from 9am to noon  foe schools who have already applied for eRate funding but want to increase their returns. He will again lead a workshop from 12:30 to 3:30 for schools new to the eRate process. His expertise will truly facilitate important funding for all.

To register for the session you will need a user name and pswd       erate is the user name and sharepoint is the pswd
Register for the first session by clicking here. ( Choose New)
Register for the second session here. ( Choose New)

A website is available for communication of best practices and questions. Full implementation of this site will begin with November training but you can sign-up immediately to attend our first meeting here: http://www.isharenet.com/mentors/MSDE_Resources/Registration_resources.html
Back to Top of Page

 

Changing Technology

Things are changing and the only thing certain is change. This seems to be the mantra for all educators who use technology in the service of the curriculum.  Changes in new programs available through Microsoft will affect our schools  no matter whether we participate in upgrades or not.

Many new computers purchased by our students will come with a Vista operating system.  Navigating the new system takes time, practice and patience.

 Word 2007 will also become the standard in new computers but how will we deal with students who come to school with files that cannot be opened or fellow teachers and administrators who do not remember to SAVE AS Word 2003.

 Even opportunities in Web creation with FrontPage will shift to SharePoint Designer and our work in SharePoint Designer II will not be easily uploaded to SharePoint III.

Being aware of all these changes takes a dedicated and openness to change. Let’s discuss strategies for handing all the newness in our October 22 Professional Development days. If you are already an expert in using one of the new programs, volunteer to present. Back to Top of Page

 

Fall,  AOB  Professional Development Day October 22

On October 22 Technology Leaders as well as teachers in other curricular areas will participate in a professional development day. All elementary and middle schools will be closed while teachers attend workshops in their own discipline at various schools throughout the state. Technology Leaders will meet with a full agenda.

Ideas for discussion include:

·        Dealing with and implementing new programs and Software

o       Vista

o       Office 2007

o       SharePoint 2007

o       SharePoint designer

·        New eRate consultation opportunity

·        Technology Planning and new AOB viabilities worksheet

·        AOB courses for recertification

o       Teaching at your school

o       Use of Title II funding

·        Technology Showcase 2007 at John Carroll School ( March 3, 2008)

o       Ideas for presenting

o       Meeting your needs

o       Attendance incentives

 

Mark October 22 on your calendar now!  Do you have other ideas you would like to see discussed?  Would you like to give a presentation? Communicate those ideas and practice with Sharepoint 3. Click here to contribute

Sign up to attend here by clicking here: Registration   Your user name is archteacher  and your pswd is sharepoint
Back to Top of Page

 

 Technology Showcase Theme Set

The Technology Showcase has been a celebration of best practices  using technology in the service of the curriculum for the last six years. Recently the Showcase went national at the NCEA conference. Many educators from all over United States appreciated the presentations by our schools, teachers and students and requested that each host city plan a similar event for future NCEA conferences.

This year in Baltimore. the Showcase will be hosted at The John Carroll School in Harford County on March 3, 2008. The theme of the conference is Online Collaboration In and Among our Schools.  Presentations on innovative ways to use Learning Management Systems, Blogging, Pod-casting, Wikis and Radio broadcasting will be highlighted.

Mark your calendars now and plan to present. Bring your colleagues and administrators.

Back to Top of Page

 

 

Contact Us



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ideas 4 Us
New Techno News

May 2007

AOB Summer Courses

Tim Wedra Summer Courses
participate and get resources for your school.
Virtual Communication Opportunities to Expand Sharing of Technology and Talent:
Partnerships in our Schools

Changes in Technology systems and programs will affect all our schools in the New Year

 

Technology Showcase News for 2008 Preparing Highly Qualified Math Teachers Math


Summer Courses


Tim Wedra's Summer Courses
participate and get resources for your school
Click the hot link above

Nine classes in technology or that use technology for delivery are offered
for Maryland State Department of Education credit this summer.
Don’t delay all classes have registration limits and some have registration deadlines.
See details below

   June 17- 22

1.      Technology a New Literacy offered at St. Margaret School
The focus of this class will be using Inspiration for developing lesson plans and curriculum       
Register here:
Online Registration Form
For more information contact Kelly Mc Donald kmcdonald@smsch.org

2.     Practicum in using Online Communication in your Teaching offered at St. Clement/MH
      The focus of this class will be online discussion, online testing, video possibilities
    
 Register for this  course by clicking  here
      For more information contact Cathy Urban
caurban@comcast.net

3.    Effective Classroom Management offered at Our Lady Queen of Peac
 &