Dr. Bryan R. Drost, Firelands Local Schools, OFLA Technology Integration Chair

Perhaps there is no more trying time for teachers than the last three-to-four weeks of the school year: hopes are high for the start of summer vacation on all parts, the teachers, the administrators, and certainly the students. This can result in frustration as students see the light at the end of the tunnel and can choose to not learn these last few weeks. However, during my journey as an educator, from classroom teacher to curriculum director, I encourage you to use these last few weeks to their fullest! It is the perfect time to experiment with kids with all kinds of different technology.

About a month ago, we released OFLA’s new Technology Integration Tool. We encourage you to take some time review this document as we believe it is an awesome rubric that you can use to help you become more proficient in the classroom with technology. You can find this tool at http://www.livebinders.com/media/get/MTM3NDIzMTg=

As you’re reading the rubric, think about some of the tools that you already use and also explore some new ones. In the last three weeks alone, I have discovered and experimented with teachers in my district and across the state with the following relatively new tools: Quizlet Live (https://quizlet.com/features/live), Recap (https://app.letsrecap.com), Zunal (https://zunal.com). They have proven to be successful in motivating students (and adults) As well as helping to teach valuable content before the end of the year.

As we start entering the early days of summer, we wish you relaxation and rejuvenation. Please let us know how we can support you.

Bryan Drost