Living the Grand Forks Public Schools Technology Vision

We have a monthly technology department meeting with technicians, curriculum technology partners, et al. to discuss initiatives, organize projects, and address current issues.  I usually have an agenda with several items to discuss as a group.  Every once and while, I like to mix it up a bit.  As often as possible, I provide reminders of how our work as individuals and as a collective group is related to our most important priority; STUDENTS (and in our case, students learning with technology).  Here is an example of one of my reminders (Appreciating and Working with Awesome People).  Last Friday, I started our meeting off by handing out a ½ sheet of paper with our technology vision:

Grand Forks Public Schools Technology Vision

The Grand Forks Public Schools believe technology is an integral component of learning and is necessary to learn effectively, live productively and participate globally in an increasingly digital world. Technology resources transform learning by allowing learners to create, publish, collaborate and communicate with others in a global environment. Technology helps learners gather and analyze information, solve problems and develop higher-level thinking skills through authentic real-world experiences.

On the lower part of the paper, I listed 3 blank lines and asked each member of the technology department to answer the following question:

Over the past week or so, how have you contributed (directly or indirectly) to the vision?

There was a slight pause, then everyone got to work.  After each member of the technology department wrote their list of 3 or more, I asked each person to share their list with the group.  Here are several of the items from our collective list that were shared at our meeting:

• helped film, assemble and act in videos for a “pride in others” pep rally
• worked one on one at the team level with teacher to implement Google Classroom, Flipquiz, XC Collaboration, Today’s Meet, and Kahoot
• helped plan, film and create an iMovie for our YORS student group to submit to Safe Kids for distracted pedestrian safety
• presented to 6th grade students on evaluating credible resources on the web
• facilitated Skype session with a marine biologist from the Bahamas for informational writing
• started a “tech club” that meets once a month
• started a “Makey Makey” club that meets during the lunch hour to create, collaborate, critically think and present a final project
• create books to share in iBook Store for school to read
• worked in a 6th grade classroom to install Google Read and Write
• met with a project based learning group to help with planning the final portion of their project and authentic learning piece
• completed and dispersed information for NDATL registration and conference
• planned for the Google Summit
• fixed, documented and repaired netbooks
• facilitating a book study
• working with students to integrate Google Read & Write tools with writing activites
• writing a grant for a maker space area
• worked on netbooks
• planning with teachers on how to use Read & Write tools
• met with the Scholastic trainer
• revisioning special education transition form and meeting agenda for more effective special education meetings and integration with TINET
• digitizing the Smarter Balanced accommodations form for better data storage by school
• helped student log into ACT ASPIRE
• showed Smartboard 14 XC Collaboration and Goegebra to math teachers
• helped a student create an animated drawing to go with a college application
• reloaded netbooks for teacher to continue her foreign language project
• ensured ACT Aspire was organized and working for students
• completed an online counselor appraisal form
• preparing new forms for Area Learning Center
• imported winter 2015 MAP results to ViewPoint
• worked with high school secretaries to generate E-Transcripts for students
• prepared iPads to be loaded
• created student Google accounts
• facilitated timely repairs of netbooks
• facilitated a response to an ongoing printer problem
• completed multiple Technology Help Requests on time
• assisted Child Nutrition with future technology purchases
• helped multiple teachers with Technology Help Requests at multiple schools
• updated iPads and installed needed apps
• helped out with printer issues
• repaired netbooks to keep student working
• worked to keep the network running for everyone
• worked with active directory creating student accounts
• prompt when responding to Technology Help Requests so teachers would have the tools they need to educate
• worked on being more efficient so my tools and skill set is maximized
• trained some staff yesterday on multicast that will better help them communicate their digital message
• convinced PTO to purchase sets of iPads
• worked in a 5th grade classroom on Google Presentation
• met with a grade-level team to plan for a research project
• helped a teacher set up Google Classroom and created the first lesson
• worked with our counselor on a presentation for an all school assembly
• participated in Monday night #gfedchat on Twitter on assessment
• facilitated a 5th grade colonial America project with iPads
• celebrated the 100th day of school with kindergarten students using KidPix to create a collage of 100 stamps
• worked with a tech and teacher to figure out how to get her Android to integrate with iPhoto
• helped a teacher set up blogs to share student work
• worked with 5th grade students to create a green screen projects of their biographies
• planned projects with teachers and students to create and publish their writing to share globally
• worked with kindergarten students to show their understanding of teen numbers using iPads
• helped students publish their informative writing digitally
• met with a principal to discuss the purchase of iPads and how I will provide professional development to support teacher learning
• guided student with publishing future jobs project in kindergarten
• posted projects and assisted in creating projects for a Google Site
• helped facilitate Google Hangout for teachers during the elementary literacy

What an impressive list!  I am so proud of the work our technology department staff does on a daily basis, yet so often goes unnoticed.  It is often challenging for people to “brag” about what they have done for students when most feel it is just part of their job and nothing extraordinary. But, this activity provided a couple of opportunities: 1) to gain an appreciation of what others within the department do and 2) for each person to get a well-deserved “pat on the back” for their contributions to our #1 priority; our students.  The positive vibe in the room was amazing as others listened and applauded each person’s dedication to students demonstrated in so many different ways.  This is a tough time of the year for everyone, so taking some time to appreciate our individual and collective work was time well spent.  It was also great for our activity to get a nod of approval later that evening via Twitter by a member of our awesome crew:

I am inspired by and appreciate everyone in our technology department.  As I take another look at the list above, it is a wonderful reminder of the great opportunities happening for students each and every day.

Do You Remember Me?

It is a question all educators are asked by former students; “Do you remember me?” I’ve been an educator for over 20 years.  I can remember most faces, but the names of many of my former students are falling out of my head at a rapid pace.  Here is my excuse, 10 years as a classroom teacher with about 100 students per year, followed by 4 years as a middle school associate principal with about 500 students per year, followed by 5 years as a high school associate principal trying to learn as many names of the 1100 students as possible and now in my 3rd year out of the school building as the district technology director for 7200 students. The number of former students, time, and my age are 3 factors not working in my favor, but I always do my best.

Whether we remember our former students’ names or not does not matter, because our students remember us, no matter how much time has past. So, it happened last Sunday in church.  At the conclusion of the service, I was approached by a man who looked somewhat familiar, but recalling his name just wasn’t going to happen.  He said, “Hi Mr. Schleicher, do you remember me?”  I said, “Hello, sorry, but it’s been awhile, you are going to have to help me out with your name.” He told me his name and the memories of this student came back quickly.  We’ve all had this student in our class or school; nice enough, but motivation to do well academically was low, assignment completion and grades both low, and his ability to disrupt class was often high.  As a middle school educator, I didn’t always know the rest of the story regarding students graduating, going to college, finding a job, etc.  Nonetheless, this student was eager to share; “I’m doing well now, head cook at a restaurant in town, coming to church every Sunday, I have my life together now.”  I took this to mean that he went through some tough times to get to where he is today.  I told him that it was great to see him, glad he was doing well, and was proud of him for working hard to get to his current position as a head cook.  We shook hands, looked each other in the eye, smiled, and he left.  My wife turned to me and commented; “did you see how happy he was to seek you out and share that he was doing well.”  It was another reminder of the lasting impact we have on our students.

Later in the day, as I reflected back on our brief conversation, several thoughts began to scroll through my head:

1. Our Handshake: As an associate principal, I facilitated a school-wide “rule of the week” from Ron Clark’s book, The Essential 55.  Rule #33 was on the importance of a handshake and that is exactly what he did.  Have even some of these “rules” stuck with my former students?  In this case, yes!

2. A Smile and Positive Attitude: I thought about George Couros’s recent blog post titled “A Simple Smile.” As an educator, I always tried to have a positive persona which meant smiling and greeting students (even if on the inside I may have been frustrated, stressed, etc.).  I sincerely believe in the following quote from George Couros; “A smile can make someone’s day, can be infectious, and have a tremendous impact on school culture.”  I am hoping my positive attitude was recognized and felt by my former students.

3. Believing In and Not Giving Up on Students: Knowing how happy he was to share his positive story with me, while at the same time remembering that this student was challenging at times, I reflected back on how I handled challenging student situations.  Keep in mind, I was a middle and high school associate principal for 9 years.  Some teachers expected the associate principal to strike fear in students and administer severe punishment in order to correct behavior.  My goal was to listen to the student first, maintain a positive rapport with the student, seek to educate vs. punish, all while still holding the student accountable.  After a “chat” in my office and possible disciplinary consequence, I always told students that I would never hold a grudge and would continue to believe in them.  This meant, I would greet the student in the hallway with a smile.  I thought about Todd Nesloney’s recent blog post on “Why I Will Never Quit.” and the following quote; “I'm here.  I'm present.  And I'm going to stand tall, stand proud, and stand bravely for those kids who need me to.  For those kids who have no one else willing to fight for them.”

Regardless of your position in education, the following should be our mantra every day:

I feel fortunate to have had many awesome conversations and encounters with former students and the one last Sunday was no exception.  Thinking about the students in our classrooms and schools today, how do you want those students to remember you years from now?

What the Heck, Why Not, Dream Big

As I write this blog, I am thinking about a post game interview cliche after losing a game such as: “We did our best, but came up short.”  But, the one cliche I really want to focus on is: “We have outstanding players on our team, we will continue to strive for excellence, and we are going to stay the course.”

I recently received notice that Grand Forks Public Schools was not selected as a finalist in the Knight Cities Challenge.  “Thank you for participating in the Knight Cities Challenge. We are writing to let you know that, after careful review, you have not been selected as a finalist.”

Back in November, I submitted an application on behalf of Grand Forks Public Schools for the Knight Cities Challenge.  The Knight Cities Challenge was seeking innovative projects that answered the question: “What’s your best idea to make cities more successful?”

There were just two rules:

1. Your project must take place in or benefit one or more of the 26 Knight communities. Grand Forks, ND is a Knight community.
2. Your idea must focus on one or all of three key drivers of city success: attracting and retaining talent, expanding economic opportunity, and creating a culture of robust civic engagement.

I figured, what the heck, why not, dream big.  With the marbles rolling around in my head and considering those who have inspired my thinking through conferences, books, tweets, blog posts and daily interaction with colleagues, I decided to submit a proposal titled “Transforming Student Opportunities and Experiences through Technology.”  Each of the two sections were limited to 150 words.

Project Description:

Imagine a community in which every K-12 student would have access to a personal learning device to not only enhance their individual academic achievement and career opportunities, but also immerse all students into a culture of civic engagement. Through the use of digital devices, a culture of imagination and impact would be instilled, as students would be empowered to connect, create, collaborate and contribute to a world outside of their classroom. Regardless of socio-economic background, equitable access to technology provides endless possibilities for all students. When students have opportunities to find their passion, they are unstoppable and can make amazing things happen. Can our students change our community and the world?  Why not?  You may say I’m a dreamer, but [I KNOW] I’m not the only one.

Learning:

In the community of Grand Forks, North Dakota, the future lies in the hands of our most precious resource, our children. That is why Grand Forks Public Schools believe technology is an integral component of learning and is necessary to learn effectively, live productively and participate globally in an increasingly digital world. Technology resources transform learning by allowing learners to create, publish, collaborate, participate in open online courses and communicate with others in a global environment. Technology helps learners gather and analyze information, solve problems and develop higher-level thinking skills through authentic real-world experiences. Technology can make the impossible possible for every one of our students in Grand Forks. Our students, through the use of technology, have the opportunity to transform our community and the world in which we live. “Never doubt that a...group of thoughtful, committed [educators and students] can change the world” - Margaret Mead.

I am fortunate to be surrounded with forward-thinking people; from the Grand Forks Public Schools Curriculum Technology Partners, to my professional learning networks of #gfedchat, #ndedchat, and beyond.

We would have been thrilled to receive some funding to move our 1:1 personal student learning device initiative along, but it does not alter the vision of all students having a device to learn and change the world. Going back to this cliche: “We have outstanding players on our team, we will continue to strive for excellence, and we are going to stay the course” because we firmly believe in our vision.

The Story of Merle Herron-A Wake Island Marines & POW during WW II

As a former social studies teacher, my passion for all things related to social studies continues.  I know most people are familiar with the story of Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941; “the date that will live in infamy.” But, few know the story behind Japan’s subsequent attacks on Guam, Midway, and Wake.  My Great Uncle Merle Herron was a Marines on Wake Island during the attack and eventual surrender to the Japanese. 

He was held by the Japanese as a prisoner of war until the end of the war in August 1945. Click on the following link to read Merle's 5 page personal account from December 1941 through September 1945. http://bit.ly/1w1MTxS

All the details in Merle’s account speak for themselves. You will notice the date listed at the end; January 12, 1988.  It took him about 40 years before he was able to talk about his experiences. The final paragraphs summarizes his reasons why:

After I read Merle’s account, I wanted to know more, so I completed additional research of the Wake Island Marines for classes within my social studies major.  I started my teaching career as a social studies teacher in 1993. It would have been great to have Merle speak to my classes, but even better, I was hoping to interview, video, and archive Merle discussing his experiences.  I was extremely grateful that he agreed to be interviewed and video taped on a visit to his cabin in 1994. Here is the video:

It was one of the moments of my life that I know I will never forget. Spending time with and having the opportunity to interview not only a World War II veteran, but one who survived the cruelties of war as a prisoner of war.  In my eyes, A TRUE HERO. But, I found one quote by Merle to be a true testament to his character and others who also served:

“Some of the fellas gave their lives, so they are more of the heroes than the ones that survived.”

Tom Brokaw’s book, The Greatest Generation, supports his sentiment:

“It may be historically premature to judge the greatness of a whole generation, but indisputably, there are common traits that cannot be denied. It is a generation that, by and large, made no demands of homage from those who followed and prospered economically, politically, and culturally because of its sacrifices. It is a generation of towering achievement and modest demeanor, a legacy of their formative years when they were participants in and witness to sacrifices of the highest order.”

With so many troubling stories around the world and on the news every day, one can only wonder, why does war, hate, stereotypes, and racism continue today? It is obvious that the human race hasn't learned much or learned from its history, even after the sacrifices made by so many. The best way we can honor our veterans, former POWs, the MIAs, and those struggling with PTSD, is to model, hope, and pray for a more empathetic and peaceful world. Finally, we can also honor our veterans by never taking for granted the freedoms we have today. In Merle's words:

“I hope that helps the younger children to know what a lot of the ones in World War II sacrificed and especially the ones that died and gave their lives we wouldn’t have the freedom that we have.”

The North Dakota Google Summit is Coming Back to Grand Forks in March!

In June 2014, the North Dakota Google Summit was held in Grand Forks for an outstanding professional learning opportunity for teachers in Grand Forks and across the region. What is a Google Summit?

After the keynote we are all off to four different sessions throughout the day, where participants can learn how to use a tool, delve into the pedagogy behind technology integration or wander into a session that looks into innovative ideas like design thinking or empathy in the classroom or moonshot thinking - an idea inspired by Google. In addition to the peppering of innovative sessions, there are sessions...on Digital Portfolios and Digital Citizenship offered by known experts in those areas. Chris Bell, COO of EdTechTeam, boasts: “We have compiled a group of world class presenters” that make up over 50% of the sessions to ensure the highest quality sessions around. Mix in a great combination of local talent and participants walk away with their minds blown and inspired to make real change in their classrooms. EdTechTeam makes sure that there is a list of experts and innovation specialist to help lead teachers down the pathways of impactful integration. Between sessions there is a break that allows for networking, sharing of ideas, the chance to pick the brain of a favorite presenter, and the creation of relationships that often lead to life-long friendships. (Holly Clark, #GafeSummit - Not Your Dad's PD,  http://bit.ly/1ExWYWZ)

Because of positive feedback after the North Dakota Google Summit in June, we are bringing this quality professional learning back to Grand Forks on March 21st and 22nd, 2015.  Here is what some of the participants said about the North Dakota Google Summit:

“This was a great weekend! There was so much information passed from person to person. Such an amazing collaborative opportunity. I was so glad to have the opportunity to be part of this fun experience.”

“This was a great summit. There was a vast amount of information I can use for my classroom. Since there was so much information it was a good idea to give us access to all the links so we can use them later. Thank you!!”

“This was by far the best, most informative, and most engaging workshop I've EVER attended!!!!”

“The summit was my first to attend. I am just getting started with Google in the classroom. I had an excellent two days at the conference and hope to be able to attend further conferences. I am excited about changing the world one student at a time in our learning environment. It was a privilege to be a part of the summit and to share with my staff. Thank you.”

“Could NOT have been more pleased with the knowledge (and inspirations) I left the conference with. A GREAT use of a Saturday and Sunday even in the summer!”

Check out the following videos about the North Dakota Google Summit (Credit: Carla Haaven)

http://youtu.be/hazZB-DjeWg

http://youtu.be/UUXypPyK70o

What makes this summit so special is the ability to have a high-quality national summit in our own backyard.  Many schools and districts are using Google Apps for Education.  Attending the Google Summit contributes to an educators’ overall growth, but will also increase their overall understanding of how Google Apps and technology can transform teaching and learning.  Teachers attending the summit will find a variety of sessions focused on both pedagogy and technical skills, but their students will ultimately be the primary beneficiaries.

We are enthusiastic to bring this high-quality learning opportunity back to Grand Forks.  Please consider joining us at the North Dakota Google Summit in Grand Forks on March 21st and 22nd.

For more information about the North Dakota Google Summit and to register, click

http://nd.gafesummit.com/

Professional Learning at #gfedchat live: No money, No agenda, NO PROBLEM

Sometimes wonderful learning opportunities happen when ideas are allowed to percolate, transpire, and come to fruition.  The idea I am referring to is the #gfedchat live event on Saturday, November 15th at South Middle School in Grand Forks.  This “unconference-type” professional learning opportunity was planned in two weeks and did not need money or an agenda.  Here is a summary of how this event came to be:

Jodi Dodson on October 27, 2014 at wrote:

Brainstorming....I want to have a mini “ed-camp” for 6th grade teachers.  I would like it to be on a Saturday.  Where could we have this?  Thoughts?  We have no built in time from the district, so we want to create our own time.  We could include tech partners that want to come.  Starting small....looking to go BIG!

Carla Haaven on October 28, 2014 wrote:

Sally, Jodi, and myself would like to host a "edcamp" event at South.  Sally came to me last week after our Monday's #gfedchat.  Jodi talked to me today so we started brainstorming for Nov 15.

Joel Schleicher writes:

Yes and Yes.  I'm in full support.  Let's talk some more and let me know what I can do to help.

Jodi Dodson writes:

WHAHOO!!!!!!!  I am so excited!  Carla and Sally came up with a great name for it and my calendar is clear!  #gfedchat-live.  I can't wait to work out the details!  My heart is happy....much needed today. Thanks!  

Recently, I have thought more about framing decisions and discussions from the “Yes, and…” and “Why not” perspectives.  (Check out the following blog post by Scott McLeod: From ‘yes, but’ to ‘how can we?’ and ‘why not?’ http://bit.ly/1ztAqE6)  From my perspective, this was an easy “Why, Not” answer. (I’m not even sure why they needed my permission, but they got my full support in return.)  I was excited to attend #gfedchat live as another educator.  The #gfedchat live event was advertised and organized for all area educators and administrators.  The question was, “How many will show up on a Saturday morning?”  All involved agreed that it really didn't matter because those who did show up would be willing participants with a willingness to learn and get better.

At 8:00 am on Saturday, November 15th, educators began filling into the South Middle School library.  There was a positive buzz in the air as 30 or so educators chatted and eagerly waited to get started.  Jodi and Carla outlined the “rules” for the morning and facilitated the the development of session topics.  Here was the schedule that was developed:

Was the event a success? Absolutely! Understanding the success and overall feeling of the event can be captured through the following photos, quotes and tweets.

"Genius hour discussion is really eyeopening and exciting!" (Lorraine O'Shea)

"Read Write for Google. Great job @mgaukler"

"Teachers from GF, EGF, Holy Family learning about Genius Hour, Chrome Extensions, Flipping on a cold Sat morning." (Carla Haaven)

Towards the end of the event, a participant asked the following question: I learned so much this morning from the other educators, will our district professional development ever adopt this type of professional learning?  This question provided anecdotal support for the #gfedchat live event and also highlighted the type of professional learning many teachers are requesting.  I believe we should be considering all professional learning that models the type of learning that should be happening in classrooms; student centered learning vs. teacher centered teaching.  I could sense that the success of the event was based on topic choice instead of a prescribed agenda and the power of sharing and learning from each other.  As the participants left the event, there was positive vibe and many were asking when the next #gfedchat live would be scheduled.  Those who showed up on a Saturday morning to learn and get better provided me with tremendous joy and inspiration.  I was also inspired by Sally Akerlind, Jodi Dodson, and Carla Haaven for taking a risk and organizing a wonderful professional learning opportunity for local educators.  So, when is the next #gfedchat live?