Quarter 1 - Technology Update

For the last 9 weeks, I (Ms. Venturino) have been working hard to facilitate the iPad integration process into our classrooms. Despite the struggles we have had with ensuring all iPads are ready to go, our teachers have been working hard to learn about new tools they can use in their classrooms.

Every Tuesday at lunch, many of our teachers meet for “Tech Tuesday,” an informal lunchtime gathering where we share technology tools, and create goals for ourselves. As a result of these meetings, many of our teachers have tried new apps and tools!

Additionally, the first working Thursday of each month (August 6 and September 3) we have had a Technology Breakfast, where parents, teachers, and students have shared how iPads are used at MVA. We have mainly focused on Jupiter Grades, but have also explored Explain Everything, a video-making iPad app. At our September 3 meeting, some of our Genius Bar students shared videos they created on different iPad apps and ways to keep iPads safe.

For the latest in MVA Technology, check out our website at www.mvavikingtech.com and follow us on Twitter @mvavikingtech.

Viking Staff Spotlight: Nora Santiago

We are thrilled to have Nora Santiago join our staff as our new school psychologist! She took some time to explain to our staff exactly what assistive technology (AT) is, and how it benefits all of our students.

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

Assistive Technology (AT) helps students with physical, sensory or cognitive disabilities face barriers to learning. For example, students with motor disabilities may not be able to hold a pencil to write answers on a worksheet; students with learning disabilities may not be able to decode words in printed text.

AT is any tool that helps students with disabilities do things more quickly, easily or independently. It can be elaborate and expensive or simple and low-cost. Assistive technology services are supports for using assistive technology devices, such as assistive technology evaluations, equipment maintenance, technical assistance, demonstration or training.

AT can provide accommodations, modifications or adaptations made to the environment, curriculum, instruction, or assessment practices. For example, a student with poor vision might use enlarged text. A student with motor difficulties might use an enlarged, simplified computer keyboard. A non-verbal student can be the “caller” for a game of “Red Light/Green Light” by using a talking switch. A student who can comprehend history at the 6th grade level, but can read only at the 3rd grade level, might read a textbook with the help of a computer that scans and reads text. AT allows a teacher to build tools and materials that address students’ strengths as well as their weaknesses.

For students with disabilities that interfere with their communication, learning, social relationships or active participation, assistive technology supports their participation in learning experiences in the least restrictive environment. Assistive technology can be the lifeline that increases a student’s opportunities for education, social interactions, and meaningful employment.

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

 Nora Santiago is new to Mar Vista Academy this school year. She is our wonderful school psychologist, and works hard to make sure all of our MVA students are supported in their classrooms. She has worked at Castle Park Middle, Alternative Education, Eastlake High, Montgomery Middle, and has worked with all school sites to administer bilingual assessments. In her free time, she enjoys camping and outdoor activities with her family.