Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Equality vs Equity - Using a Blended Learning Environment to Break Down Barriers

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We are expert at making sure each child gets an equal opportunity.  We are experts at giving each student the extra support they need to thrive, but how do we remove the barriers altogether?  I am not exactly sure the best method for all of our students; however, I believe it needs to start with each class and branch out from there.  I also believe it is imperative that we do remove these barriers and a blended and personalized learning environment can be key. 

According to Dictionary.com, "blended learning is “the use of both classroom teaching and on-line learning in education.” In essence, it is a combo of both the traditional teaching style and one where the students learn while utilizing technology.  Students have more choice and voice in the platform and way they learn opening the learning up to all and breaking down those barriers.  Students also have more freedom to work at their own pace, being able to slow down in some areas and speed up in others to gain the most from the content.  My favorite part about a blended approach is the ability for teachers to have more time to meet with smaller groups to focus the learning on what the group needs most.  Once again, removing the barriers to the students learning.

To learn more, feel free to contact me or join us at our A Blended Approach to Personalized Learning trainings to learn more!

A Blended Approach to Personalized Learning training dates and times:
    • 02/20/18 (3:45-5:15)
    • 02/26/18 (3:00-4:30)
    • 03/06/18 (3:00-4:30)
    • 03/21/18 (3:45-5:15)
    • 04/17/18 (3:00-4:30)
    • 04/25/18 (3:45-5:15)

Friday, February 2, 2018

Hoops for 86 Fundraiser Tomorrow

Come out and support your fellow teachers and me as we play basketball to help fundraise for the Foundation grants that are awarded to District 86 teachers each year.  Also, come support our elementary and Jr. High school cheerleaders.  Admission is $1 for kids and $2 for adults.  See everyone tomorrow!

Per our district website,
"SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 03, 2018
Hoops for D86 Fundraiser
01:00 PM - 04:30 PM Joliet West High School - Field House401 N. Larkin Ave.Joliet, IL , 60435
815-791-3230
The Joliet Grade Schools Foundation for Educational Excellence will host its fifth annual “Hoops for D86” fundraiser, presented by ExxonMobil, on Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 1:00–4:30 p.m. The basketball tournament will take place in the field house at Joliet West High School, 401 N. Larkin Avenue, and feature players from Joliet Public Schools District 86 schools. In addition, District 86 administrators will play members of a community team during a game scheduled for 2:15 p.m.

The event is open to the public. Admission is $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for students.  Concessions and raffle tickets will be available to purchase. Entertainment will be provided by cheerleaders from M.J. Cunningham Elementary, Dirksen Junior High, Forest Park Individual Education (I.E.), Hufford Junior High, A.O. Marshall Elementary, Pershing Elementary, Sator Sanchez Elementary, Isaac Singleton Elementary, and Woodland Elementary Schools. Student drawings will also take place during the event."