The Future Readiness Academy at Penn State New Kensington is proud to announce its inaugural regional conference: Education Vanguard: Building the Education of the Future Together. Educators, academics and industry leaders from across the region are invited to a conference that will feature presentations by leading technologists, innovators and faculty experts discussing the latest in technology and the expected impact on workplace, workforce and academia. WHO: K-12 educators, Higher Education Faculty, and Business, Industry, Non-Profits and Think-Tanks WHERE: Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry Twp. WHEN: Thursday, October 12 - Saturday, October, 14, 2023
Cultural Connections with Hummingbird Cohort 1: October 14 – December 4 Cohort 2: December 9 – February 5 Python with Finch Robot Cohort 1: October 7 – November 18 Cohort 2: December 2 – January 20
KidWind is a free workshop open to all educators. As a participant, you will engage in activities that will introduce you to the science behind wind energy while putting easy-to-use tools in your hands to prepare students to compete in the KidWind Challenge. WHO: Teachers of students in grades 4-12 WHERE: Rm 223, Frable Building, Penn State Greater Allegheny WHEN: October 7, 2023, 9 A.M. - 3 P.M.
JV Manufacturing is excited to announce its 2nd annual Manufacturing Day. Their goal is to expose the community to what manufacturing companies look like in their own backyard. JV Manufacturing will be offering tours, activities, food, and happy hour. Please extend this invite to your colleagues in the community. WHO: Educators and families WHERE: 1603 Burtner Road, Natrona Heights, PA 15065 WHEN: Thursday, October 19th, 3:00-6:00 PM
WHO: Educators and administrators who participated in any of the following 2022-23 CPE PD:
WHEN: Wednesday, November 15 - 8:30am - 2:30pm Participating educators will receive more information via email soon.
This award honors those who work inside and/or outside of classroom spaces to advocate for gender equity in computing by providing educational opportunities that are inclusive to--and supportive of-- women, genderqueer, and non-binary students. The award recognizes these educators for their efforts to promote gender equity in computing. Applications are now open through December 4, 2023.
On January 15, 2024 our region’s leading change makers will be coming together to support this year’s theme of Transformative EdTech: Revolutionizing Learning and Work. Through the integration of educational technology, students have before them the opportunity to experience the pathway to “what is next” while in the classroom. These pathways, using new and equitable learning models, lead to networks that design a strong foundation and momentum in future careers. Evening Innovation in Education Award & Networking Event Date: January 14, 2024 Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Location: TBA TRETC 2024 Conference Date: January 15, 2024 Time: 9:00 AM-3:30 PM Location: South Fayette High School | McDonald, PA 15057 Please visit the TRETC event site to:
For Students
Award recipients are selected based on their aptitude and aspirations in technology and computing, as demonstrated by their computing experience, computing-related activities, leadership experience, tenacity in the face of barriers to access, and future plans. Applications are now open through November 6, 2023.
WHO: 3rd – 8th grade classes WHERE: Online. You’ll be sent the link to connect after you register WHEN: Sessions begin in late November 2023 More information about registration will be shared later this fall. LEARN MORE: Head to CodeJoy Virtual Student Sessions to learn more about the sessions and read testimonials from teachers.
Middle school students are invited to enter this hands on, real world, exciting robotics competition. Teams can choose their challenge:
WHO: Middle school students WHERE: Competition will be held at the Franklin Regional Middle School in Murrysville, PA WHEN: April/May 2024 For Everyone
WHO: Everyone is welcome!
WHERE: Downtown New Kensington WHEN: Activities on October 12, 14, 15, and 18 (see flier for more information)
Educator in the Workforce Training will immerse educators in workplaces to learn about the region's key industries and employers. What: Free, in-person site visits to a variety of industry locations When: Range of dates from mid- to late-June 2023, approximate time 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM (lunch included) Paid: Thanks to PDE for our PAsmart funding, ABC CREATE educators from partner districts can earn $40/hour stipends for attendance. Project-Based Learning Training will equip teachers with practical instructional strategies for implementing PBL. What: Free, 2-day, in-person training at Penn State New Kensington When: Wednesday, June 14 from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM and Wednesday, June 21 from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Paid: Thanks to PDE for our PAsmart funding, ABC CREATE educators from partner districts can earn $40/hour stipends for attendance.
BirdBrain Offering – Coding with Finch is a Snap! *You must have a Pathfinders account to register for this course. Creating a Pathfinders account is free and easy. To register:
CodeJoy Offerings
 Digital Foundry Educator Fellowship – STEAM EducationExcited for this Summer 2023 opportunity!
This summer, in partnership with ABC CREATE, the Digital Foundry at New Kensington will be working with educators with experience in designing and delivering meaningful, hands-on, engaging, joyful STEAM learning experiences to support, adapt, and assist in development and delivery of STEAM content for summer programming at the Digital Foundry at New Kensington. Educators will leverage their experience with BirdBrain technologies, ed tech tools, coding, robotics, 3D printing, and pedagogical approaches that support student agency in co-creating activities and content aimed predominantly for MS, HS, and young adult learners. Although the application deadline has passed, feel free to check out the posting to learn more (similar opportunities may occur in the future).  CodeJoy FREE interactive virtual field trip sessions for students!Join Kelsey and Matt the Robot from CodeJoy for an interactive virtual field trip session for STUDENTS - scheduled at YOUR convenience! Student participants watch as their code controls real robots in the CodeJoy studio - LIVE! WHO: 3rd – 8th grade classes WHAT: CodeJoy Student Sessions
WHEN: January 2023 LEARN MORE: Head to CodeJoy Virtual Student Sessions to learn more about the sessions and read testimonials from teachers. REGISTER: Click HERE to view available Robot Rovers sessions and learn how to register. CodeJoy Teacher PDVirtual PD with Hummingbird, Finch, and Micro:bit Looking for some entry-level teacher PD (no prior coding experience needed) to learn some basic computer science, coding and robotics? Join Kelsey and Matt the Robot from CodeJoy for this FREE, online professional development opportunity! WHO: ABC CREATE and ARIN IU 3rd – 12th grade educators WHAT: CodeJoy is offering a variety of 3-hour, entry-level PD sessions for teachers who are new to CS, coding or robotics WHEN: Sessions available January - March 2023! WHERE: Online on Zoom WOW: Stipend and free Robot for ABC CREATE and ARIN IU educators who participate! Using Hummingbird Bit Inputs Have you already introduced your students to Hummingbird Bit and basic programming of LED’s and servos? Are you interested in learning more about Hummingbird Bit inputs like light sensors, distance sensors and accelerometers? Join Kelsey and Matt from CodeJoy for this FREE, 3-hour, online professional development! WHO: ABC CREATE and ARIN IU 3rd – 12th grade educators who have already been introduced to Hummingbird outputs, such as LED’s and Servos, and want to further explore using Hummingbird inputs, such as light sensors, distance sensors and accelerometers WHAT: CodeJoy, 3-hour, online professional development WHEN:
WOW: Stipend for ABC CREATE and ARIN IU educators who participate! BOTLUCKS: ROBOT POTLUCKS Please join us for this FREE, 2-hour professional development to meet up, in-person, with other teachers who are using micro:bits, Hummingbirds and/or Finch robots in their classrooms. Share your ideas, ask questions and learn more about coding and using these resources in your instruction. You’ll be glad you came! WHO: ABC CREATE and ARIN IU educators (any grade level) who who are using or planning to use micro:bits, Hummingbird Bits and/or Finch robots in their classroom instruction WHAT: 2-hour, in-person “meet-up” WHEN: There are 5 sessions available; 3 at PSNK and 2 at ARIN IU. All sessions are scheduled for February, March and April 2023. WHERE: You choose the location that works best for you: Penn State New Kensington or ARIN IU WOW: Stipend for ABC CREATE and ARIN IU educators who participate!
Upon completion of the course, educators are issued a certificate indicating 16 contact hours. XR Foundations for Educators can be completed at your own pace over the 2022-2023 school year and into the summer. Live support is available as you continue to work on projects you can share with your students. Discover how XR positively impacts education, learn how to create Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) experiences for students, and begin incorporating new technologies into classrooms. This course is for you
XR Terra, in partnership with the Verizon Foundation, is excited to bring this professional development opportunity to educators at no cost. We invite you to learn about XR (Extended Reality) and how it fits into our classrooms.  Empowered Educators 2023 - Save the Dates! Carnegie Museum of Art is excited to announce the 2023 Empowered Educators series. Empowered Educators is a forum where educators discuss issues of race, equality, and bias through visual art, literature, and personal writing and reflection. The primary objective of Empowered Educators is to build a community of informed teachers as learners who benefit from resources and an exchange of ideas with guest experts and each other to better serve Western Pennsylvania's students. Carnegie Museum of Art is pleased to partner with the Western Pennsylvania Writing Center, the Center for Urban Education at Pitt, and the PittEd Justice Collective to make this program possible. All Empowered Educators sessions are free. Registration information for January will be coming soon. Teachers who attend are eligible to earn Act 48 hours. SAVE THE DATES: Thursday, January 19, 2023 Thursday, February 16, 2023 Thursday, March 16, 2023 Thursday, April 20, 2023 Thursday, May 18, 2023 TIME: 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm PLACE: Carnegie Museum of Art
OpenAI and ChatGPT are having an impact in education with their uses for generating essays, writing code, and so much more. Rachelle has been testing it out and recently co-authored a blog post for Getting Smart "Education is about to radically change: AI for the masses" and also recorded a quick podcast episode about ChatGPT that explains it and its implications for education and work. You can also check out Rachelle’s Learning as I go this Thursday for the upcoming guest blog post by Dr. Torrey Trust, an Associate Professor of Learning Technology in the Department of Teacher Education and Curriculum at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. The guest blog post will focus on Teaching History/Social Studies in the Era of AI Writing Tools. Rachelle’s Recently Recommended Resources AI Coach from Edthena is great to work with for personal observations and learning; it’s definitely an awesome way to interact and get support for teaching. It allows you to see how the chatbot works and how it pulls your reflections together. I also really like how it helps us to better understand the capabilities of AI as far as collaborative learning and coaching. Here is the link for a free trial access to AI Coach: edthena.com/try/aicoach/rachelle. Please share it with your colleagues and also any student/pre-service teachers. Another great resource is Marty the Robot, a humanoid that can be coded screen-free with color cards but also using the app with text-based and block-based coding. This is another great opportunity to bring in STEM, PBL, SEL and better understand how AI is programmed. You can also request to try Marty out too! I have Marty and absolutely love it! I just did a few sessions in TN this past week and everyone loved seeing the AI Coach and also Marty's moves!
ENGINE 3D STEELS Educator Community of Practice ENGINE of Central PA is leading a STEELS Community of Practice to support 3-dimensional teaching and learning for K-12 teachers. We’d love to have someone from ABC CREATE join in - especially if you’re able to share back your learnings with ABC CREATE educators. Feel free to mention ABC CREATE in your application! * Are you excited to learn about the new PA STEELS standards? * Are you eager to engage your students in STEM research-based learning? * Are you looking to build and test phenomenon-based lessons? * Are you ready to be a trailblazer in shifting K-12 science instruction? Then, we encourage you to apply to join the ENGINE 3-D STEELS CoP.  Logo Foundation Upcoming Saturday Morning Workshops Creative computing workshops. Small fee to attend. ABC CREATE district teachers, email cms64@psu.edu to cover cost. Our partner, Tom Lauwers from BirdBrain Technologies, will lead the sessions on January 7 and 14. January 7, 2023 - 10:00 am to noon EST Hands-on Artificial Intelligence for middle schoolers: Using Machine Learning models to control games and robots in Snap!Click here to find out more... January 14, 2023 - 10:00 am to noon EST Remote Programming of Finch and Hummingbird Robots.Click here to find out more... January 21, 2023 - 10:00 am to noon EST TurtleArt: Techniques and Styles. Student Opportunity
Wow: PSNK is actively supporting BUILD Pennsylvania as they seek to grow their presence in their Southwest Pennsylvania. In addition to support provided through BUILD, PSNK, through the Corner Launchbox, can provide supplemental coaching & mentoring to ABC CREATE and other local teams.
Anyone interested in participating, or who is curious and wants more information, please reach out directly to Joanna Sutton, jqs7188@psu.edu, Innovation Coordinator, Corner LaunchBox, Penn State New Kensington. EDUCATOR OPPORTUNITIES ABC CREATE STEAM Showcase 2022 Series  SHOW & TELL - Brief, Casual and Relevant PD Sessions! Day 1: Cultural Connections Wednesday, May 11, 2022 6 – 7:30-ish PM Virtual, on Zoom Embedding STEAM and technology into the Arts, World Languages, and Humanities adds depth, relevance, and perspective to the learning experiences of local teens. Day 2: Playful Connections Thursday, May 12, 2022 6 – 7:30-ish PM Virtual, on Zoom Sparking interest in STEAM by engaging students ages 8 - 14 years old through playful approaches and purpose-driven projects.  CELEBRATION - Save the date and plan to attend! May 18th from 4 - 6 PM
 KICKOFF (was a success!)
CodeJoy Professional Development
ABC CREATE Hummingbird + Finch MeetUp/Work Session We know how much our educators value engaging with their peers as they begin to introduce STEAM technologies and skills into their everyday teaching and learning, so we’re setting aside some time for thinking, coaching, supporting, and planning (+ a bit of laughing and snacking …).  Get Hands-On with AI and Robotics  When: May 18, 2022, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Where: Energy Innovation Center, 1435 Bedford Ave, Suite A , Pittsburgh, PA How Much: FREE (with lunch provided) The goal of this workshop is to get hands-on experience working with AI. You will learn about the types of AI models used to detect objects in images by training an AI model to detect different stuffed animals. You’ll then use this model to control a Finch Robot that does simple tasks based on the code you’ve written. You’ll walk away with a lesson that can be completed in as few as 3 class sessions in any middle or high school computer science class. The lesson itself does not require access to a Finch Robot. No previous experience with AI or robotics is expected, though we do recommend some experience with blocks-based coding. AI (artificial intelligence) is an intelligence multiplier the same way that industrial machines are muscle multipliers. As our AI gets better, it will allow people to do more, faster and better, in just about every field of work. Though the development of new AI methods remains the province of highly trained researchers, all of us are already interacting with AI daily, and so it’s important for everyone, and especially our students, to develop an understanding of how AI works and how to use it well. Please bring a laptop with a working camera and any stuffed animals you have access to. We’ll provide robots, extra stuffed animals, and an afternoon snack! This workshop is limited to the first 25 registrants. (And yep, that's our good friend, Tom Lauwers from BirdBrain, in the photo. He'll be presenting this workshop, so you know it will be a good one!) SUMMER 2022 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT  ABC CREATE Teachers' Summer STEAM Retreat
BirdBrain Summer PD: Level Up your Finch Robot with Python and AI
CodeJoy Summer PD:
SUMMER CONFERENCE State of Black Learning Conference
Historically, education has been seen as a ‘one size fits all’ system for students. Research shows this is not the case with Black students. Whether considering a child’s home life or integrating a learning strategy to enhance student engagement, it is essential to hone in on the ways in which educators interact with and teach Black students. SBL is designed to increase educator effectiveness and provide the tools necessary to help participants address all of the factors that improve student outcomes and help Black children learn in the greater Pittsburgh region.
EDUCATOR OPPORTUNITIES  STEAM Showcase 2022 KICKOFF FREE Interactive student sessions with CodeJoy (Limited offer)ABC CREATE Exclusive
 We’d like to bring that joy of teaching and learning to more ABC CREATE educators (and their students) by providing a supportive learning environment to those teachers who are ready to take the leap – or at least to take a small jump. We’d like to start with an offer of a FREE interactive student session with CodeJoy. Interactive students sessions with CodeJoy are an innovative new way to introduce coding and robotics to more students and classrooms than ever! During these free sessions (lasting 30 - 45 minutes), students are introduced to coding and robotics concepts through fun interactive stories, characters, and themes. Students need only a computer or Chromebook to join. Sessions can serve up to 400 participants simultaneously, target absolute beginners grades 3-12, and will be delivered for ABC CREATE from March 14-25, scheduled whenever works for YOUR classroom. Even if you’ve never taught coding, but are curious, this is the perfect opportunity! There are 3 sessions to choose from:
In April and May, ABC CREATE and CodeJoy will offer professional development with Finch, Hummingbird Bits, or micro:bits to allow educators to take the next small jump toward integrating coding and robotics into their everyday curricula. Intrigued? Want to get started? Simply say “Yes” in an email to Colleen by February 15th to learn more about the interactive student sessions and/or to get one scheduled. This is a limited opportunity – offered to ABC CREATE – so reply right away. (Preference will be given to ABC CREATE districts, but all who are reading this may email interest. If space is available, those outside of ABC CREATE who have expressed interest will be invited to join).  BELONG in STEM - Educators NeededABC CREATE and the Digital Foundry are looking for educators who share ABC CREATE’s vision and who embrace ABC CREATE’s mission and values to help to build the BELONG in STEM (Bringing Education Learning Opportunities for New Growth) program. BELONG in STEM is a free, out-of-school time (OST) program designed to engage high school students who are traditionally underrepresented in STEM/STEAM. Five educators will work as part of a team with STE(A)M professionals to guide the overall BELONG experience, to center a BELONG vibe, and to contribute teaching and pedagogical expertise. BELONG in STEM will include 5 out-of-school time (OST) sessions in the spring + 4 day summer camp. Educator's PAID commitment includes 20 hours between March and August 2002 for planning and delivery of at least one OST session and one day of summer camp. Hope you can join our BELONG in STEM team! Application Deadline: February 20, 2022. We have space for 5 educators. Cultural Connections with Hummingbird - FREE Course
The first 100 educators from grades 4+ from US public and charter schools to apply (and fit the criteria) may get a FREE Hummingbird Bit Premium Robotics kit. Apply now: https://pathfinders.onwingspan.com/en/page/home An added EXTRA: if you’d like to move through the course as part of a synchronous cohort, please register for the course by March 13th! Computer science, pedagogy best practices, AND a free robotics kit?! What are you waiting for? Remake Learning Days
What makes a Remake Learning Days event?
When is Remake Learning Days May 12 - 23, 2022 Now is the time to register your Remake Learning Days event to get it posted in the event publications. ABC CREATE Goal: At least one Remake Learning Days event in each district! Let us know if you’re hosting. Future Jobs Watch Party & Pizza Opportunity from PBS-WQED
 CS in PA Exemplary Educator Award - Nominations Open Nominate an educator for the Exemplary Educator Award. In conjunction with the Summit, the CSinPA team would like to recognize outstanding K-12 CS educators for their efforts to expand CS learning for all. At the Summit, the three finalists will be featured in a panel discussion and the winner will be announced. STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES BELONG in STEM - Student info Please help us to fill this program with students who are traditionally underrepresented in STEM by actively recruiting students you think would benefit. BELONG in STEM (Bringing Education Learning Opportunities for New Growth) is a FREE STEAM program for high school students who are typically underrepresented in STEM careers. A group of 35 high school students will be selected to participate in 5 out of school time sessions and a 4-day summer camp experience. This free STEAM program, created in partnership with ABC CREATE and the Digital Foundry (and support from the Arconic Foundation), provides bridges from classroom learning experiences to those in the real world through hands-on experiences with technologies including robotics and smart connected systems, connections to industry networks, and exposure to future opportunities. Sessions will be held at locations throughout the New Kensington area including at the Corner Launchbox, the Penn State New Kensington campus, the Digital Foundry and at various businesses. Who Should Apply: High School students in the Pittsburgh region (with priority given to underrepresented populations from the Alle-Kiski Valley) who want to explore emerging technologies and build STEM and future ready skills. No prior experience with STEM or technology needed. Deadlines: Applications must be submitted by February 15, 2022. All applicants will be notified of their status by February 25, 2022.
The LAUNCH program transforms the natural curiosity of high school girls into a voice of leadership in the STEM industry. Through our comprehensive program, high school girls will gain insight into their leadership style and be equipped with the confidence to pursue a successful career path in STEM. Through their engagement, our participants experience growth as leaders and exit the program prepared to create positive changes in their chosen career path. When: March 25-27 Where: In-Person and Via Zoom Who Should Apply: 10th and 11th Grade Girls interested in gaining career and leadership skills in the world of STEM. Summer Opportunities for Students Check out Remake Learning’s recent. blog post about upcoming summer opportunities for students.
We wouldn't ask if we didn't really want and need your input! Thank you!
Elementary: Computer Science & Coding When: Tuesday, December 7, 2021, 8 AM-3 PM Where: In-person @Penn State New Kensington Middle + High School: Future Ready Skills with Real World Connections When: Wednesday, December 8, 2021, 8 AM-3 PM Where: In-person @Penn State New Kensington
For more event details, to register, to present, or to nominate visit HERE. January 16 | 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm Tacos and Tech – Join us for networking and fun at TechWorks down at the Waterfront as we explore educational technology from spot the robotic dogs and 3D Printers to the Doosan Robotic Arm and Glowfordge Laser Cutter. Don’t miss out on the evening keynote with MOONSHOT and ASTROBOTICS. January 17 | Penn State, Greater Allegheny 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Full day of sessions, networking and learning that ends with our second annual Innovation in Education Awards. Highlights of this day include:
Please circulate this leadership in STEM program with 10th and 11th grade girls, kicking off with a retreat at Duquesne University in October. These ladies will be well on their way, taking off with LAUNCH and meeting incredible, accomplished women working in our region’s leading STEM companies at the Center of Entrepreneurship, Professional Selling and Supply Chain Management space in Rockwell Hall. This is an opportunity not to be missed and seats are filling up!
ABC CREATE Fall Convening(s) 2021 Elementary: Computer Science & Coding Tuesday, December 7, 2021 Designed as a work session for ABC CREATE elementary teachers and administrators who want time to think, explore, and plan with the aim of enhancing and aligning coding/CS efforts within your district, your classroom, and across ABC CREATE. 8 AM - 3 PM In-person @Penn State New Kensington Lunch will be included. ACT 48 eligible. Open to ABC CREATE Partner Districts  Featured speaker: Tom Lauwers, founder and CEO of BirdBrain Technologies and longtime friend to ABC CREATE, will set the stage for the day with a session on CS and Robotics.
 Middle + High School: Future Ready Skills with Real World Connections Wednesday, December 8, 2021 Designed to immerse ABC CREATE Middle School and High School educators and administrators in the dynamic revitalization activities in the New Kensington region, this work session will update educators about current and upcoming opportunities with the Digital Foundry (and other PSNK Nextovation efforts). Educators will co-design future learning opportunities like professional development for teachers and field trips for students that will engage educators and students with industry professionals and with the technologies and processes available through the Digital Foundry. We want to be sure that future PD and field trips meet the needs of our ABC CREATE educators and students, so your input is imperative! 8 AM - 3 PM In-person @Penn State New Kensington Lunch will be included. ACT 48 eligible. Open to ABC CREATE Partner Districts  Featured speaker: Sherri McCleary, Executive Director of the Digital Foundry at New Kensington and longtime friend to ABC CREATE, will provide insider access while opening the doors for shaping the future for K-12 education at the Digital Foundry.
Remake Learning Meetup Join Remake Learning and the Entertainment Technology Center of Carnegie Mellon University for a meetup focused on transformational games. This meetup will include a Happy Hour, an exhibit of transformational games and a tour of the Entertainment Technology Center. When: Thursday, November 4, 2021 from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Where: This event will be held in two locations just a short walk from each other: 329 Technology Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 + 700 Technology Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 BirdBrain Educators' Community on Facebook  Did you know there is a BirdBrain Facebook group just for educators? Join BirdBrain Educators’ Community to collaborate, brainstorm and connect with like-minded educators working with creative robotics. Ask questions, share your experiences, spark new ideas, and showcase your favorite creations. Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE) Inspired Problem Solving: The Engineering Design Process with Sphero Join Sphero Hero Nicholas Provenzano and Sphero Engineer Jeff Weincrot to hear how you can use Sphero to teach the Engineering Design Process. We'll talk about the steps engineers take to guide them in problem solving—both in the classroom and in the field—and Sphero activities that can help students build design thinking skills. Attend live for PD credit, the chance to win a Sphero BOLT (or indi if you teach early learners), and to join other educators in the conversation! Visit the Sphero website to learn more about this and other Sphero Sessions!  Learning for Justice Professional DevelopmentLearning for Justice is hosting a series of virtual professional development workshops starting in December and going into early 2022. The workshops are open to current K–12 classroom teachers, administrators and counselors, and for anyone who coaches classroom teachers and administrators. Here’s a look at the workshops we’re planning:
Aspirations in Computing (AiC) Educator Award Calling all educators (teachers, counselors, coaches, mentors, and others) who support students’ interest in tech! The AiC Educator Award identifies exemplary formal and informal educators who play a pivotal role in encouraging 9th-12th grade women, genderqueer, and non-binary students to explore their interests in computing and technology. NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Award Calling All High School Students in Tech! Right now is the perfect time to submit your NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing (AiC) application! Applications are due on November 5th. The entire application only takes about an hour to complete and the benefits are life-changing. This award is for the entire spectrum of experiences. Whether you are just starting your tech journey or a seasoned coder, you should apply! Registration Deadline is November 5, 2021 at 11:50 p.m. ET  Revitalization ties together the elements of this extraordinary professional development opportunity: Revitalization of YOU - as a person -- as an educator -- as you head in to the new school year
 Nearby Data Project Info Session - Opportunity for MS and HS teachers The Nearby Data Project will support middle and high school teachers in developing and implementing ways for their students to not only understand big data systems, but also to explore how their data is being used and how data is being used to represent them. In addition, this model encourages students to notice, wonder and explore how data is represented on both a macro and micro scale. Rather than taking every data visualization as infallible fact, students will examine the origin of the datasets and seek out more questions than answers about the way the data is represented and the story that it tells. Teachers participating in the Nearby Data Project will receive a stipend along with resources for implementation in their classrooms. Questions: Reach out to Lou Karas at lkaras@westliberty.edu or 304-336-8162 Info Session: Monday, July 19, 2021 from 10:00 - 11:30 AM (via Zoom) Info and Registration for Information Session: https://forms.gle/YaGFkvYaKyadnMaJ6  PittEd Justice Collective Community Meet-Up You’re invited to this free, open, virtual event to meet with educators, activists, caregivers, and community organizations who advocate and work for justice in our teaching and learning spaces. Educators here in the greater Pittsburgh region and across the country are welcome and warmly encouraged to attend. Date: Tuesday, July 20, 2021 Time: 2 - 3 PM ET (online) Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pitted-justice-collective-meetup-tickets-162073138119 About PittEd Justice Collective: The PittEd Justice Collective is a working group at the University of Pittsburgh School of Education that is engaged in anti-racist, justice-directed initiatives. We proudly work with and learn from students, faculty, staff, alumni, families, youth, and district and community partners. All are welcome to participate.  State of Black Learning Conference About: Historically, education has been seen as a ‘one size fits all’ system for students. Research shows this is not the case with Black students. Whether considering a child’s home life or integrating a learning strategy to enhance student engagement, it is essential to hone in on the ways in which educators interact with and teach Black students. SBL is designed to increase educator effectiveness and provide the tools necessary to help participants address all of the factors that improve student outcomes and help Black children learn. Date: August 12 - 13, 2021 Info and Registration: https://stateofblacklearning.com/  CodeJoy: Free Summer CodeJoy Shows with Summer Maker Camp! About: Kelsey and Matt from CodeJoy will be offering free shows highlighting robotics, coding, and making as part of Maker Camp 2021. New shows each week: Robot Mini Golf: July 12 - 16 Robot Aerobics: July 19 - 23 Robot Memories: July 26 - 31 Robot Rovers: August 2 - 6 Robot Relaxation: August 9 - 12 Register: Become a Community Partner: https://makercamp.com/. It’s free and takes about 10 minutes! Who can be a Community Partner? Anyone! A summer camp, a library group, a pod of learners at home, a single kid and parent! Then, look for an email from Maker Camp with instructions on how to complete your registration. Email that address with any questions, issues or concerns.  IU1 Summer Institute
The 2021 IU1 Virtual Summer Institute is a two-day institute of collaboration, workshops, and communication. Via Zoom, learn from local educators and be inspired this summer through engaging, interactive online workshops for educators that offer a variety of effective strategies that enhance your classroom instruction as you begin a new school year. Dates: August 3 - 4, 2021 Info and Registration: https://sites.google.com/iu1.org/iu1summerinstitute ABC CREATE Summer STEAM Retreat 2021 - SAVE the DATES  Mark your calendars, and plan to attend! Registration info coming soon! Date: August 10, 11, 12, 2021 Time: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Location: TBD - Expected to be in person (That's why we say "Back to the Future: PD like it's 2019!) West Liberty University Connected Classroom Virtual Learning Series  The Connected Classroom Virtual Learning Series is focused on approaches, resources and tools for teaching and learning in K-16+ classrooms. In these fifty-minute virtual sessions, educators will learn new ways to use engaging and relevant methods and technologies. Join us for one or more of the thirty-eight sessions being offered this summer. https://sites.google.com/view/the-connected-classroom/home The Summer 2021 Series will run from June 22, 2021 through July 29, 2021 with sessions scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9:00am and 10:30am. There are a few sessions at 1:00pm throughout the series. The schedule and registration information are available at: https://westliberty.edu/education/connected-classroom/ Please reach out to Lou Karas at lkaras@westliberty.edu or 304-336-8162 if you have any questions about the Connected Classroom 3.0 schedule or a specific session. Educators have the option of receiving graduate credit, through West Liberty University, for their participation in the Connected Classroom Virtual Learning Series 3.0 this summer. Both three credit and six credit options (for re-certification and pay increments) are available at the special rate or $180 for three credits and $360 for six credits. For additional information about the graduate credit options or to register for the classes, please contact: Vincent Sirianni, Graduate Program Coordinator, at vincent.sirianni@westliberty.edu or 304-336-8156. For information about the required assignments for the graduate credit courses, please contact Dr. Nicole Ennis, Director of the Masters of Arts in Education Program at nicole.ennis@westliberty.edu, 304-336-8486 (office) or 304-830-1777 (cell). The Connected Classroom Virtual Learning Series is a program of the Center for Arts and Education and the Masters of Arts in Education Program of the College of Education & Human Performance at West Liberty University. WE ARE (Anti-Racist Educators) - Leaders and Learners Workshop  We ARE (Anti-Racist Educators) is a cohort-based approach to growing into anti-racist leaders, recognizing that this work is most successful when done in community. “We ARE - Leaders and Learners” is a 5 session workshop series designed for superintendents, principals, instructional coaches, school board members, and others in school leadership positions. Participants will develop a lexicon, create habits, and generate dynamic practices as leaders in education creating an anti-racist future. By exploring personal identity through critical reflection, we will examine how we are present in systems of oppression and how we can best act as anti-racist change agents. This series is designed from the perspective of white educators working to dismantle the inherent racism in our education system though all are welcome to join. Date and times: July 27, 28 and August 3, 4, and 5 from 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm EST https://www.betterquestions.education/events Cost: $400 - ABC CREATE educators in partner districts are eligible to use discount code ABCCREATE to receive 25% off the listed price. ABC CREATE STEAM Show & Tell Series Recordings Available  Teachers and/or our education partners have shared tech tools or pedagogical approaches that have helped them to resolve challenges that arose while teaching through a global pandemic. All sessions have been recorded and are viewable HERE. 2021 IU1 Virtual Summer Institute  IU1 will be hosting the 2021 Virtual Summer Institute on August 3-4, 2021. The theme of the 2021 IU1 Summer Institute is “What Now? Supporting Educators Moving Forward from a Pandemic.” There are over 30 different sessions offered over two days and each session will last approximately 1 hour. Session topics include Google, SEL, ELA, Math, tech tools, and more. There will be two sessions offered focused on open discussions where basic research learned during the pandemic will be shared, and participants will have plenty of time to share their own experiences, learning, and resources too! The cost per session is $10. Seats will fill quickly, so register early to ensure your seat at the 2021 IU1 Summer Institute! Dates: August 3 - 4, 2021 Location: Virtual Cost: $10 per session https://sites.google.com/iu1.org/iu1summerinstitute/home Equitable Practices Hub  The purpose of the Equitable Practices Hub is to establish a coherent collection of resources that an educational community may use in promoting intentional equity in their communities. The resources have been hand-picked and reviewed, and represent best practices, models, and guidance from all their component parts. https://www.education.pa.gov/Schools/safeschools/equityandinclusion/EPH/Pages/default.aspx Remaking Tomorrow  So many of us are asking: Where do we go from here? What comes next? A better tomorrow isn't guaranteed, but it is possible if we act today. In this online publication, you’ll find “insights & actions to shape a post-pandemic future of learning that is just, equitable, and learner-centered.” https://readymag.com/u673640268/2508445/ MoonShot Grants  Does your school or program have a bold idea that challenges the status quo—and wants to be considered for funding in this next phase of Moonshot Grants? https://remakelearning.org/blog/2021/06/09/how-to-shoot-for-the-stars/  Requesting Your Voice on the PA Science & Technology and the Environment & Ecology Standards Deadline: July 6th, 2021 The State Board of Education's current regulations include two sets of science standards – Science and Technology and Environment and Ecology – which serve as the basis for curriculum development and instruction in schools. Both sets of standards took effect on January 5, 2002. After several public stakeholder sessions and the work of 60 STEM education colleagues serving on content and steering committees from across our Commonwealth, a modified set of standards has been proposed. On September 9, 2020, the State Board of Education voted to adopt as a proposed regulation (Chapter 4) the three sets of science standards developed by the committees: Pennsylvania Integrated Standards for Science, Environment, Ecology, Technology and Engineering (Grades K-5); Pennsylvania Integrated Standards for Science, Environment and Ecology (Grades 6-12); and Pennsylvania Technology and Engineering Standards (Grades 6-12) (reflected in Appendix B-1) Here is how you can make a difference: 1) Create an EMAIL: Karen Molchanow, State Board of Education Board ra-stateboardofed@pa.gov with your recommendations and specific content you feel may be missing from the proposed sets of standards. 2) Please encourage as many individuals across all sectors - business & industry, libraries, higher education, science/art centers & museums, schools etc. to send comments as soon as possible. The reviewers of the comments will be counting the number of comments asking for certain things then make a determination to allow the proposed standards to go through a round of revisions/updates or not. 3) You can also sign this Call to Action below:  From the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, there is a call to action regarding the Environment and Ecology standards. "In an egregious oversight, the newly proposed science education standards for Pennsylvania could eliminate all of the requirements for students to learn about the state's environment and ecology." Please use your voice and speak up for this critical area to be addressed. Green Schools Conference  Green Schools Conference (GSC) is an annual event that convenes people from across the world to further the vision of sustainable, healthy schools. GSC is the only event to bring together all of the players involved in making green schools a reality: the people who lead, operate, build and teach in our nation’s schools.
Dates: June 28 - 29, 2021 Location: Virtual https://greenschoolsconference.org/ |
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