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Helping Teachers Unleash the Potential of Interactive Tech

Friday, February 16, 2:00 pm–2:50 pm
Seattle Convention Center - 613

Adopting new technology in a district can be challenging, especially when teachers have many other challenges to overcome in addition to the new technology. Learning to use new technologies can be seen as time-consuming, staff may need additional resources and training on the technology, and overall there may be a lack of confidence in teacher’s own abilities to learn to use technology. What strategies can tech instructors and coaches use to create a supportive and empowering environment for teachers to learn new technology? Our team of panelists will share their districts’ journeys from projector-based technology to interactive technology, highlighting the challenges they have faced and strategies they have tried to implement in order to build teachers’ confidence in their ability to use new technology effectively. Our panelists will share stories of success in getting teachers to the “next level” of interactive technology as well as how they have differentiated learning to support the needs of teachers. There will be time for Q&A for session participants to have the opportunity to learn from the panelists’ experiences and ask questions about their specific concerns. This session will provide a valuable opportunity for administrators, IT directors, and other coaches to learn from the experiences of our tech coaches and to gain insights into supporting teachers to use interactive technology.

Format:
Panel
Focus Area:
Coaching, IT, Leadership, Professional Development
Audience:
Administration, CTO/IT Director/Coordinator, Instructional Technology/Technology Coaches
Skill Level:
All levels
Grade Level:
All Grade Levels

Presented by


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Kimberly Allison (Panel Member)
Instructional Technology Coordinator
Tahoma School District

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Mike Signal (Panel Member)
Elementary Instructional Technology Coach
Auburn SD District Office

Mike has held various educator roles in the Auburn School District, including paraeducator, classroom teacher, and computer science and technology specialist. He currently works as an instructional technology coach, working with elementary school staff and students.


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Erica Starr (Lead Panelist)
School Success Manager
Advanced Classroom Technologies

Erica Starr is the School Success Manager at Advanced Classroom Technologies. Erica works with districts and schools to co-create professional development plans around technology integration and provides professional development training for teachers and administrators. Erica is a Nationally Board Certified Teacher with endorsements in special education and middle school mathematics. She has over 6 years of experience in the classroom at the elementary and secondary levels. Erica loves helping teachers feel confident and successful when using technology in their classroom. Erica can also creates videos to help teachers learn to integrate interactive panels on TikTok and Instagram: @interactiveerica


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Michele Waddel (Panel Member)
Director of Instructional Technology and Learning Services
Everett Public Schools

Michele Waddel is a dedicated educator and technology leader with a strong academic background, including a Master's in Curriculum & Instruction and ongoing pursuit of a doctorate and superintendent certification. With extensive administrative and teaching experience, Michele is well-versed in fostering digital equity and inclusive learning. As the Director of Instructional Technology and Learning Services in Everett Public Schools, she plays a pivotal role in implementing technology solutions, such as interactive panels, to enhance student engagement and accessibility. Michele's expertise extends beyond technology integration, encompassing curriculum development, assessment, and a deep commitment to creating equitable and innovative educational environments.