Comfort with Technology by Dr. Abbondanza https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9 MSE 750 en-us 2021-08-22 20:11:48 UTC 2021-08-30 03:02:30 UTC hello@padlet.com Stephanie Jones https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691074641 Good Morning!  My name is Stephanie Jones and I am starting my 18th year at Solanco High School.  I teach Earth and Space Science, Environmental Science, and a Water Course.  I live in Millersville with my husband and 2 dogs and I enjoy spoiling my nephew who is 2 years old and spending time with family and friends.  

I like to think that I'm pretty tech savvy. I have taught summer school online and created the content, I taught a few courses through our Virtual School for a few years on top of my teaching schedule, and last year I taught in-person and on Zoom simultaneously.  I feel comfortable including technology into my teaching and have been a go to person for others in my department and others in the high school and have used many different platforms and LMSs.  ]]> 2021-08-23 13:14:07 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691074641 Good morning! My name is Lauren Fabean and I teach first grade in the Canon-McMillan School District. While I wouldn't exactly consider myself extremely "tech-savvy," I am comfortable with tech, I learn very quickly, and I am able to apply my general understanding of tech when introduced to a new concept. https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691094069 2021-08-23 13:23:55 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691094069 Hi, all! My name is Jocelyn Blystone and I live outside Pittsburgh with my family. My husband and I have a 4 year old boy and a 2 month old girl (it's been a busy summer)! I am a first grade teacher at South Fayette Elementary. I am usually quite comfortable integrating technology into my lessons. My students are 1-1 with iPads. Last year, I taught a fully cyber section of first grade. We used Canvas as our LMS and our team designed and created all of the content and assessments. We met (Google Meet) twice daily as a group for instruction and then I also utilized small groups to support students. It was quite a shift from a traditional year, but I was quite impressed with the effectiveness of the program and the dedication of the students. I am looking forward to learning more about technology integration.  https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691101007 2021-08-23 13:27:35 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691101007 Michael Denver https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691112920 Good Morning! My name is Michael Denver and I am starting my 6th year at Bridgewater-Raritan High School in New Jersey, although I have been in education for 10 years. I teach Health and Physical Education at the high school level. I am a family man who loves the beach, all sports, and learning. 

I would not consider myself "tech savvy," although I would say that I am comfortable with google technology (google meet, docs, etc.). Last year, I was able to utilize these on a daily basis in my classroom and learn some basic techniques to make it effective for all of my students. I am looking forward to learning some new ways to utilize technology in the classroom as well as getting to know all of you! ]]> 2021-08-23 13:33:28 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691112920 Anne Hartinger hartingera https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691246168 Good morning! My name is Anne Hartinger and tomorrow I will begin my 5th year teaching. I currently teach in the Reading School District in Pennsylvania. I have taught Kindergarten for the past 4 years and this year I am taking on a new challenge of teaching 3rd grade! I teach all the subjects (ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies). This is my last semester at CalU and hope to graduate in December with my Master's Degree in English as a Second Language. My school population is 90% Hispanic so I am very excited to take the knowledge I have learned and  continue to serve these students. 

I would not consider myself "tech-savvy" although this past year, I have definitely become more comfortable integrating technology into my lessons. My school district taught completely virtual for most of last year and let me tell you, teaching kindergarteners over a computer was quite the challenge but it was amazing what they can do if you continuously hold high standards!  We used programs such as google meet, jamboard, and peardeck. At first, keeping kindergarteners engaged was a challenge but by incorporating activities such as peardeck and jamboard, students loved being to interact and work with one another across their computers. I am looking forward to getting to know all of you as well as learning about more resources to incorporate into the classroom!]]> 2021-08-23 14:35:59 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691246168 Kathleen Miller https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691282219 Hello everyone! My name is Kathleen Miller, but prefer Katie. I teach 7-12 Mathematics at Rockwood Jr/Sr High School. This will be my 3rd year in the district and 4th year teaching. I spent one year teaching in Maryland at Garrett County. 

I would not consider myself "tech-savvy", but know the basics of programs and software to understand the essential functions for teaching and learning. During the pandemic the past year, I have definitely been pushed to become more acclimated with integrating technology and being comfortable with using it more often within my classroom. I hope to be able to fluently integrate technology into my classroom with the skills learned within this course! ]]> 2021-08-23 14:53:20 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691282219 Kayla Bruening https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691284795 Hello, everyone!
My name is Kayla Bruening and I am a science teacher currently teaching at Forbes Road School District in Waterfall, PA (but I will be changing schools very soon). I teach Physical Science (8th), General Science (12th), and Chemistry (10th & 11th). Forbes Road is a 1:1 school and we just switched from iPads to Chromebooks in the middle of the school year last year.  I have two darling cats named Tilly (8 years old and a tabby) and Chloe (11 years old and a calico). In my free time I am working on reading a book and teaching myself how to use a blanket knitting loom. 

I would describe myself as a person who has the ability to understand technology. Once I have an understanding of how to use the technology, I find it relatively easy to implement it in a lesson. Getting to that point can be fairly difficult as my school district does not always offer training on new technologies. For example: last year we were online for a period of about 3 months and many of us teachers had to move our lessons to Google Classroom and Meet. We had no training on this so it was a big learning curve teaching ourselves how to use the technology and then incorporate it into our lessons. I find once I have training and have had the chance to familiarize myself with the technology I can work with the technology. I'm super excited to learn about new technologies and how to use them in my online classroom space!!]]> 2021-08-23 14:54:39 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691284795 Allison Santos https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691315745 Hello everyone! I am currently on track to graduate here at CalU this December as this is my final semester, yay! I live near Harrisburg PA with my two children who are two and four. We enjoy all things outdoors and are looking forward to when mommy has more free time after graduation. 

Currently, I am a second grade teacher at a school called Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA) which is a completely virtual school. I teach ELA and social studies at CCA. 

As funny as it may seem, I am actually not a tech savvy person. Still very much old fashioned and love a good pencil and paper to write things down. However, being that I teach completely virtual, every day, I have learned so much over the last 3 years at my school. I am always willing to try new and innovative ideas to bring in to my virtual classroom. I have found that there are so many engaging technology tools that I was never aware of before teaching at CCA that I have grown to love and use daily. Padlet being one of them. 

Hope you all have a wonderful semester! ]]> 2021-08-23 15:09:21 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691315745 Joe Swadlow https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691358012 Hello everyone!

My name is Joe Swadlow and this will be my 4th year teaching. I currently teach 7th and 8th grade social studies in the Council Rock School District. I live in Philadelphia and previously worked at two different charter schools in the area. 

My school is 1:1 with Chromebooks and over the last year I have definitely become more tech savvy than I used to be. In my class we use Canvas, Kami, and Nearpod regularly. I also enjoy have my students make social studies themed podcasts, videos, and presentations. My students typically are very engaged when I use technology to help them learn.

I would say that I am not naturally drawn to tech, but I am willing to learn. I usually like to be consistent, so I will find a couple of online tools and use them regularly. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge in the area and using it in the classroom. ]]> 2021-08-23 15:29:38 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691358012 Emilee Vinisky https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691422336 Hello all! 
My name is Emilee Vinisky and I currently teach 3rd grade in a small private school in Somerset PA. 
My school is 1:1 with iPads and I try actively to incorporate technology so students can be comfortable with it (if/when they are remote learning). I am the school leader in Schoology and by default the one that everyone comes to with technology questions. My students were the first ones to be submitting all assignments through that portal when were were online last year. I think that normalizing tech as much as possible can help everyone feel more at ease. ]]> 2021-08-23 16:01:29 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691422336 Taryn Maleski https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691798251 Hello Everyone!  

My name is Taryn Maleski and I live in the Pittsburgh Area with my boyfriend and my cat.  

I work at Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA) which is an online public charter school.  This is my second year here and I teach Algebra 1 to 9th through 12th graders.  

My first year, it took me about a month to figure out how to teach math online because I had long-term subbed at local school districts for the previous 3 years before coming to CCA, but I got the hang of it!  I'm still learning how to use different technology in my classes but I got really good at making Kahoot reviews for what we learned during the week/unit.  I would specifically choose to write incorrect answers that are common mistakes so I can see what students are thinking when solving a problem, and then show them different ways to get the correct answer.  PLUS Kahoot will give me a spreadsheet at the end showing me who answered what for each question AND how long they spent on the question.  I also used Nearpods, especially when students were learning how to graph slope-intercept form so I could see in real time what students were doing and help them out.

I hope to learn about more technological tools to continue to help my students learn, especially ones that are tailored to math classes!]]> 2021-08-23 18:31:21 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691798251 Stacey Hart https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691823192 Hi everyone!
I’m Stacey. I’m a Math teacher at Wallenpaupack Area High School, which is located in northeast Pennsylvania. This upcoming year will be my first year teaching at WAHS. Prior to this year, I taught Physics at Oakton High School in Northern Virginia for two years. I will be teaching Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 this year. 
I am a pretty tech-savvy person when it comes to integrating technology into the classroom. Last year, our school district was in strictly distance learning from August to March, so many kids went at least a year with virtual instruction. With this challenge of only meeting with students virtually, we had to depend largely on technology. We got trained in platforms and were given a lot of support in finding and implementing useful ones. I continue to explore new platforms and look for different ways to make lessons engaging.
I’m excited to meet and work with everyone this semester!]]> 2021-08-23 18:45:37 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691823192 Hello All! https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691868104 My name is Krista Kovalchick. I teach French and Latin at Palmyra Area High School in Palmyra, PA. It's the town right next to Hershey. I am starting my 23rd year teaching.
Last year our district was hybrid. We had the first half of the alphabet in person one day, with the second half of the alphabet virtually through TEAMS. Then we flipped. I also had students who were 100% synchronous and I never saw them face-to-face, and I also had students who were 100% in person. It was....interesting! 
I spend my year staring at the TEAMS screen, something which I'm sure most if not all of you also did (at least something similar!) I feel pretty proficient in Google stuff, but there is so much out there now that I never really had time to explore last year. I am definitely looking for new and exciting ways to integrate technology! This year we are 100% in person and there is no virtual option so it will be nice to take a breath and explore some new things with my students!

]]> 2021-08-23 19:15:41 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691868104 Tammy Traylor https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691930515 Hi everyone!  My name is Tammy Traylor. I reside in Bethlehem, PA with my husband and 3 children. I am an avid reader, I love nature, and walking. While I have my certification(s) to teach English and ESL, I am not currently a practicing teacher- yet. Nonetheless, I am working as a learning support instructional aide for Easton Area School District. I have worked with a variety of grade levels from Kindergarten through 8th grade in a wide range of subjects. I work with small groups and/or 1:1 with children who are learning disabled.  With regard to teaching and learning, my technology skills are slightly below intermediate, but expanding daily. My  district uses innovative approaches to teaching and learning with the use of ipads and a wide variety of apps such as Google Classroom, Zoom, Seesaw, Kahoot, and Clever.  I would not describe myself as “tech savvy”, but I am a quick (visual) learner. I am comfortable using the above mentioned apps, but I have a lot to learn about implementing technology into education. I am currently interviewing for teacher positions; implementing technology into lessons is my greatest weakness.  While I continue my graduate studies towards my Master’s degree, I look forward to learning strategies to improve online  lessons. ]]> 2021-08-23 20:00:47 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1691930515 Hello! - Erica Morton https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692052345 Hello, all!  My name is Erica Morton and I am getting ready to start my first permanent teaching job tomorrow!  I recently have been hired at Connellsville Area School District as a middle school science teacher; I am beyond excited to be close to my home of Fayette County.  I am local to Cal U and live in Greensburg with my husband Austin and dog Denny.

I personally believe my technology skills for teaching and learning are about average or slightly above.  During my undergraduate program at Cal U I took many courses that opened up the world of technology in education for me.  Some of the technology I have encountered include STEM resources from IU1 (local to Cal U).  One particular technology I like to use (I bought a set for myself) is Snap Circuits.  Snap Circuits almost remind me of K'NEX, but with, well, circuits.  I attached a quick link below if you are interested in checking out Snap Circuits.  Last school year I was a permanent substitute for the full year as a 5th grade teacher at McGuffey School District.  During my time there, I taught virtually which allowed me to practice implementing some other online sources of technology into my daily lesson plans.  For example, I used websites such as Padlet and Kahoot for instructional purposes.  I look forward to learning about what other technologies I can incorporate into my middle school classroom.

Snap Circuits: https://www.amazon.com/Snap-Circuits-SC-300-Electronics-Exploration/dp/B0000683A4/ref=asc_df_B0000683A4/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312153111586&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4628243178883293956&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006027&hvtargid=pla-403917102187&psc=1]]> 2021-08-23 21:50:15 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692052345 Cassie McCabe https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692085827 Greetings! 
I am about to start my 4th year of teaching at Hill Top Academy (an alternative school run by the Capital Area IU15) in Mechanicsburg, PA. My class is self-contained middle school emotional support, so I am responsible for all subjects grades 6-8 (ELA, math, social studies, science, and employability), plus high school algebra, geometry, and consumer math for the classroom next to mine. 

Just like most of you, I experienced virtual instruction, then the unique challenge of simultaneously supporting in-person and virtual students on Zoom when we returned to full in-person instruction last August. We became adept at switching modes of instruction with the introduction of Virtual Wednesdays, quarantine time, and the odd snow day. Luckily we are 1:1 with Thinkpads (K-3 students have iPads).

I would describe myself as very competent in technology, although high school Cassie would be surprised to hear that. I have the most experience in Google apps. Some of my other favorites include Code.org, Nearpod, Kahoot, Prodigy, and TedEd. We have the option to access our full curriculum online through Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. 

Last year I was busy trying new things as my school makes curriculum and programming changes to better support our students. 
I was thrilled to pilot Aimsweb progress monitoring and benchmarking apps (moving from Acadience paper and pencil). The online format (on the iPad) engaged my students and allowed them more autonomy since they could independently log in to take their assigned module(s) and see their progress graph each week. 
We made the switch to SmartFutures for CCR reporting and transition-related lessons. I participated in a Teacher in the Workplace grant that will allow us to update our life-skills lab and employability programming.
Finally, but far from least, I worked with some of my colleagues to start an esports club for our high schoolers. I am currently a general manager and coach for our Rocket League team. 

I am looking forward to experiencing new tools, learning more information, and sharing resources with all of you this semester!]]> 2021-08-23 22:25:52 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692085827 Anthony Pinneri https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692133900 Good afternoon everyone,

My name is Anthony Pinneri. You may call me Tony for short. I currently am a substitute teacher and work for the maintenance department for the Elizabeth Forward School District. I am studying to get my degree in the MAT program focusing in the field of English. I have a bachelors degree in English Journalism and communications. Growing up, I have always been in contact with something electronic. I came in contact with gaming consoles, cell phones, computers and the many add-ons that come with them. I took many technology classes in both high school and at the collegiate level, classes like CAD, standard computer classes, and technology strategies in the classroom. When I was in high school, Elizabeth Forward became one of the first schools to begin to become a technology driven school district. They gave each student iPads and soon all books and notebooks became as easy as a push of an app. I believe I am able to see learning in many different aspects not just learning from a book and recalling information but getting creative to be a better learner. I believe because of these experiences, I have explored many different types of search engines, apps, developing PowerPoints, designing Kahoots and classroom activities that are technology friendly so the students can experience a different way to use their brains while learning. Technology is advancing everyday so the more you can learn how to use it and design it to work in your classroom, you will definitely have an advantage to being adaptable in the classroom.]]> 2021-08-23 23:19:31 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692133900 Caroline DeIuliis https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692168873 Hello! My name is Caroline DeIuliis and I am excited to begin learning about new strategies for online teaching with all of you! I am originally from Pittsburgh, PA, but am currently living in Reading, PA teaching 8th grade social studies for the Reading School District. At Cal U, I am working towards my Master's Degree in English as a Second Language. 

Although I would not describe myself as "tech-savvy," the previous school year has helped me develop some valuable skills in integrating technology into my lessons. Within my district, the majority of the 2020-2021 school year was taught exclusively online. These unusual  circumstances challenged me to learn about new online programs and resources that benefited my students. I became extremely comfortable using programs such as Google Classroom, Google Slides, Pear Deck, Kahoot, Edpuzzle, and Flipgrid. Despite being introduced to several technological platforms, I know there is still a lot to learn. I am looking forward to discovering new methods of utilizing technology in my instruction.


]]> 2021-08-23 23:48:35 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692168873 Michael Gabany https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692196660 Hi Everyone,
I'm Michael, I recognize some names from previous semesters so it is good to see you all again.  I teach a Commonwealth Charter Academy.  It is a cyber school that teaches any student in Pennsylvania.  I specifically teach high school earth science.  I teach any student 9-12, no specific grade level.  On a more personal level I live in Monroeville, Pennsylvania.  I taught three years in Virginia but I had the chance to move back home and teach cyber.  This is my sixth year teaching.

I would say that I am tech-savvy given where I work.  I student taught at Elizabeth Forward in 2016 and they had a 1:1 program where each student had their own iPad. When I taught in Virginia there was not a lot of technology available for my students. We had a laptop cart that was shared with the other earth science teacher.

I was excited to take this course because I want to build more strategies for engagement in class.  Some of the programs I have used are Kahoot, Nearpod, Classroom Screen, Quizziz, and Brainrush.  I look forward to any other programs that can help my students learn.]]> 2021-08-24 00:07:03 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692196660 Hello! My name is Teresa and I live in the South Hills of Pittsburgh with my family and two dogs. I have been teaching French for almost 25 years, the last 14 years or so in an online asynchronous environment. I feel comfortable using technology for curriculum and instruction, but would like to learn more about technologies and programs for synchronous learning and face to face / live instruction. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and skills through this course. https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692295037 2021-08-24 00:48:51 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692295037 Katie Posey https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692361017 Hello! My name is Katie, I live in Harrisburg, PA with my husband and two dogs (River and Drake). We are expecting our first child this December, so we've been very busy getting things ready before a new school year begins!

 I teach at Central Dauphin School District in 3rd grade. I teach all subjects to my students, and consider myself pretty tech-savvy. I've gone through various blended-learning trainings through my district and implement blended learning in my classroom every day. Some of my favorite tech tools are nearpod, google classroom, gimkit, kahoot,and digital breakouts. I've learned that the most important part of blended learning is establishing your teaching methods and content first, and then deciding on what tools you can implement in your lessons to assist you. 

As it keeps looking like this year is going to be another challenging year, I'm looking forward to learning more about online teaching!]]> 2021-08-24 01:11:53 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692361017 Lauren Miller https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692430563 Hi everyone! My name is Lauren Miller and I teach grades 6 and 8 science at Selinsgrove Middle School in Selinsgrove school district. It's hard to believe this will be my fifth year teaching and my last course in the STEM program. I recently bought a home by Lewisburg PA and have been enjoying seeing a mother deer and her 2 fawns frolic through the yard. I love anything outdoors including hiking, kayaking, and biking. 

Although I enjoy being outside I also get excited to hear about new technology like Ed Puzzle, Flipgrid etc... It's exciting to hear there's something bigger and better out there but at the same time feels overwhelming. I feel my technology use is middle of the road. I don't think I'm tech savvy, but at the same time, I'm not afraid to tinker with something and try different avenues. I'm always open to expanding my technology skills and learning about new apps!]]> 2021-08-24 01:37:45 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1692430563 Jeremy Romesbreg https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1693448685 I currently teach 7th and 8th grade Reading at Rockwood Area Jr. Sr. High School in Rockwood, PA. I am certified in both 7-12 Social Studies and English. I previously taught at an Alt-Ed school near Ligonier, PA, for a few years, before getting out of teaching for a bit. I reactivated my cert last summer, and was hired at Rockwood in September, three years into the school year. My wife and I just had our first child last November. 

Our students are 1-1 with Google Chromebooks, and last year we moved to running most of our lessons through Google Classrooms due to remote learning. I'm not a very savvy tech user when it comes to technology, but I do feel comfortable with using technology and implementing it in my classroom. Through GC, my students use a variety of Google apps for their school work: Docs for writing assignments, Slides for presentations in the classroom, and Forms to complete quizzes and exams, for a few examples. ]]> 2021-08-24 11:53:20 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1693448685 Austenne Gniadek https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694037378 Hello everyone, my name is Austenne (it is pronounced like Austin) and I am an art teacher at Westinghouse Arts Academy Charter School located in Wilmerding PA (Monroeville area). I teach studio arts to sophomores, art history, and senior seminar. I did my undergrad here at Cal in K-12 art education. I am currently living in East McKeesport with my boyfriend and our 2 dogs. 
I student taught in fall 2020 so I got thrown head first into the wold of educational technology. Through all of my teaching, I have consistently used Canvas which I really like. The classes art history and senior seminar are actually asynchronous classes so I am definitely ramping up my familiarity with more online tools through teaching those classes. I have used Zoom, all things Google, and Canvas most frequently. I would say I am becoming tech savvy more and more everyday. I am by no means an expert, but I find myself problem solving and catching on really quickly these days. Teaching art online is very hard so I hope we don’t have to go remote again anytime soon. I hope to gain more tools through this course to help me become better at teaching online so that I can give my students the most value out of their online coursework. ]]> 2021-08-24 16:57:58 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694037378 Kristin Anderson https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694227961 Hi!  My name is Kristin Anderson and I live in Washington, PA.  I'm a 2012 graduate of Bethany College. I have been teaching for four years at McGuffey School District.  This year I will be teaching Civics, Law, Sociology, and World History.  

We were a Google district so I was a Google certified educator.  I like to try new technology and I’d say I’m somewhat tech-savvy.  I went to an ISTE conference a couple years ago and LOVED it.  I have used Edpuzzle, Flipgrid, Nearpod, and Everfi regularly in my classes the last few years.  During hybrid instruction, I would use Google Meets to hold classes.  I'm excited to learn new ways to use technology in the classroom. ]]> 2021-08-24 18:45:57 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694227961 Jonathan Perry https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694487246 Hi, my name is Jonathan Perry and I am currently teaching 10th grade US History in Waldorf, Maryland. I enjoy golfing and coaching baseball.

I would say that I am fairly tech savvy, although I do not particularly enjoy it. I can pretty much figure most technology issues I am having and figure out new websites I have to use whether it be for IEP goals or for grades. While I am fairly good at technology, I do not enjoy using it my class or in lessons. I prefer having hard copies of things and anytime I try to integrate websites like Nearpod in my class it just feels awkward and class does not run as smooth as I would like.]]> 2021-08-24 22:22:04 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694487246 Jennifer Strine https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694540923 Hello everyone!
I am Jennifer Strine and this is my second year as a Learning Support teacher at South Western School District. I am currently teaching biology and 11th-grade English. I was originally certified as middle-level English and K-8 special education, but added on my certification for secondary special ed. 
My technology skills have definitely grown in the past year since my district implemented hybrid and distance learning options. We also had a new LMS rolled out at the beginning of that school year. Since then, I have become better at working with the system (Canvas), using Nearpod and connecting it with Google Slides, as well as connecting a monitor, laptop, projector, and camera together to ensure students across all learning styles are getting the information in some way. Other uses are using a database to progress monitor the students on my caseload and using online labs for students unable to come into the classroom. As a student, I am able to figure out Word and Google Docs to complete assignments as necessary and how to upload. Are there some platforms or other technology uses that could bolster my teaching? Definitely, and there are still in-depth things I am learning that my school is able to do with Canvas. I would not go so far to say I am tech-savvy, but I do know enough to be able to incorporate technology into my lessons, especially after this past school year.


]]> 2021-08-24 23:19:57 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694540923 Johnna Regan https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694863958 Hi Everyone! My name is Johnna Regan and I am currently a 7th grade science teacher at Fox Chapel. This is my second full year, but prior to this year, I have done several long-term sub positions at FC and Derry in middle school science. Teaching is my 2nd career, I started as an Exercise Physiologist, but wanted to follow my true passions, so I left the field and went back to school and now I am pursuing (another) Master's degree. I currently live in Harrison City with my husband, 2 year old son, dog, and cats. It's a traveling circus over here. 

As far as technology goes, I would say I am pretty comfortable with technology implementation in the classroom. Technology has always been something that has come pretty naturally to me, and I have become the person whose room other teachers will drop in to ask a "how do I..." tech question. The students I teach are 1-to-1 with iPads and definitely over the past year and a half, I have been forced to get more creative with the technology used in my classroom to keep students engaged both in the classroom and at home. I try to always remember that sometimes less is more and that I don't need to integrate a tech tool just for the sake of integrating one, but there is definitely a time and place for adding technology to enhance a lesson. I am looking forward to learning more and continuing to expand on what I already know!]]> 2021-08-25 01:45:18 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1694863958 https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1695798912 Hello, everyone! My name is Marshall Neff and I am going into my fourth year teaching mathematics at Propel Montour High School in Pittsburgh! I am currently teaching Geometry and Algebra II but have had experience with Algebra 1 as well.  I recently got married in May and have been with my now wife for 12 years! I enjoy playing golf, guitar and spending time with my family.

I would say that I am tech-savvy, especially after teaching virtual through a pandemic. I rarely used technology in my classroom though. However, now that I had to be creative with my teaching style while teaching virtual students, I use technology everyday. I use Desmos all the time in my math classes. It is a great way to see student response in real time and keep all student work in one place. During my first week of school last week, students did not have technology yet so I had to print all my materials. I forgot how crazy it was in the staff lounge every morning fighting for the copy machine.]]> 2021-08-25 10:33:46 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1695798912 Samantha Middlemiss https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1696862774 Hello! My name is Samantha Middlemiss and this is my fourth year teaching fourth grade and third year teaching at California Area School District. I completed my student teaching at California Area and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors Degree in PreK-4 Education from CALU of PA. I am currently working towards earning a Masters Degree in Education with a Reading Specialist certification from CALU of PA. I am very excited to take on my new role as CASD's fourth grade lead reading and cyber teacher!

Over the past few years, I feel that I have become very tech savvy. The pandemic definitely assisted in this area. 

At CASD, we are currently 1-to-1 with technology. Google Classroom is utilized as the hub for daily lessons and resources. In my classroom, I integrate various types of technology tools in order to further student understanding. My favorites include Nearpod, Kahoot, Flipgrid, Boom Cards, and Blooket. 

I am looking forward to learning and enhancing my practice through this course!]]> 2021-08-25 21:30:35 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1696862774 https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1696896251 Hello! My name is Erin Meckler. I earned my undergraduate degree from Cal U in Secondary English Education. Now, I am going into my last semester of the Educational Leadership program. 

I would consider myself someone who is not necessarily advanced with technology but very comfortable with learning new technology. I have no issue implementing it into my classroom, and would be able to use it should it be necessary. I believe it should be used when it betters an assignments. During student teaching, I was able to implement technology into the classroom, but once the pandemic hit, it was difficult to use it with a district that, on average, did not have internet access. I am excited to learn new tools and uses for technology within the classroom!

]]> 2021-08-25 22:08:09 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1696896251 Tonya Fabian https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1699101571 HI! My name is Tonya Fabian and I live in Denver, CO. I currently work at Horizon Middle School in the Cherry Creek School District. I teach physical education and Health to middle schoolers. I actually use technology a lot of the subjects I teach solely because I also lose everything that gets handed to me in the gym. I usually have at least three units where I use video to teach and evaluate students on their skill levels. I love google classroom and have everything a student would need on their for my classes. I also started integrating different fitness Apps in my classroom. I like to think of myself as tech-savvy. ]]> 2021-08-26 18:58:25 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1699101571 Mercedes Conner https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1701199916  Hello, my name is Mercedes Conner. I received my undergraduate degree from Cal U in secondary mathematics education. I do not currently have a full-time teaching position but I’m hoping to gain some experience by subbing this year until a full-time position opens up. 
I feel I had a really good experience with technology for teaching  during my student teaching semester. The class that I was assigned to did a hybrid model so it was both an in person and online educating setting. I was lucky enough to student teach in the fall which allowed me to assist with creating the online classroom with my teacher and get first-hand experience with all of the new technologies that schools have been using. 
I would say that I am a tech savvy person but I do struggle incorporating technology specifically into mathematics lessons. I have a lot of ideas and thoughts on how to incorporate technology but for taking the stuff to actually include it is where I struggle. 

]]> 2021-08-27 17:27:13 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1701199916 Joseph Gates https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1701261012 Hi, my name is Joe Gates. I am beginning my 2nd year teaching at Central York High School. I teach Personal Finance and Marketing classes. I live in Lebanon, Pa. 

I think I am pretty tech savvy. I taught my entire first year both in the classroom and on zoom. All the work I do in my classes can be done online and I like to use different technology resources when I teach. I know there is so much more to learn though which is why I am looking forward to this class.

I hope everyone enjoys their semester!]]> 2021-08-27 18:06:41 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1701261012 Jessica Baker Waters https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1701592852 Hey!  My name is Jessica Baker Waters.  I am at the end of my Masters Degree in STEM Education.  I was an educator for 11 years, but now I am the Director of Education at Flight Works Alabama. 

I like to think I am tech savvy, but here recently I realized that I really need to up my levels of technology.  I have been working with 3D Printing, Sublimation, SOLIDWORKS, and Raspberry Pis within the last month. So, I feel as though I am a little behind on the times. However, I am excited to learn all things new when it comes to technology and how I can implement it within our education center. ]]> 2021-08-28 00:51:44 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1701592852 Kaley Harrison https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1703027711 Hi everyone! My name is Kaley Harrison. I am a 1st grade teacher in Northeast Philadelphia. I am also a regional manager for a STEM camp part time during the school year and full time during the summer. I am in my last semester of the masters of STEM education program.

I have always been pretty tech savvy. As a teacher (especially the last year and a half) I always have to keep up with the latest technology and be able to teach it to my students. The STEM camp I work for has also given me the opportunity to dabble in many other technologies. I have some intro level coding knowledge and robotics knowledge. I love learning about tech and trying out the newest things! 

I'm excited to learn more in this course to help in my classroom and my summer job.]]> 2021-08-29 23:54:47 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1703027711 Anna George https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1703312121 Hello everyone- My name is Anna George. I am a 4th grade math and science teacher at Duquesne City School District. I currently am a member of out Instructional Leadership Team and I accepted a position with Teach Plus and their fellowship program over the summer. 

Overall I would say I am very tech savvy. In my undergraduate program I took a couple extra courses to be eligible for my STEM endorsement. Since acquiring that I feel like I have continued to grow my knowledge about technology and network with teachers from all over about what kinds of technology work best in their space. I have experience using Chromebooks, iPads, Apple TV, all Microsoft products, all Google products, Sphereos, coding, a plethora of websites and resources, I have utilized our STEM lab at school on several occasions, and I also have a professional Instagram that allows me to connect with teachers from all over the country to get new ideas on how to use technology in the classroom. If I do not know how to use a new type of technology I love to dive in and learn how to and to continue to grow as an educator. ]]> 2021-08-30 01:56:32 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1703312121 Dean Mathies https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1703488849 Hello, everyone. My name is Dean Mathies and I am currently just a lowly sub at Ringgold High School (about 25 minutes south of Pittsburgh). Before my recent entrance into the education field, I served in the U.S. Air Force for almost a decade, where I was afforded the opportunity to travel the world. While I've never had my own classroom before, I've worked with 9th graders in Honors American History.

I consider myself mildly proficient in terms of technology in the classroom. Some of the programs that I have used during my short experience so far has been with NearPod, MS Office, Google Classroom, Moodle, and Blookit, just to name a few. I try to use technology in every lesson. The past year seems to have completely turned everything digital in some way or another, and I believe that the tools technology offers to foster learning are endless.]]> 2021-08-30 03:02:30 UTC https://padlet.com/abbondanzam/giguxs2caxwxdoo9/wish/1703488849