#TOSAChat is a chat on Twitter every Monday night at 8pm PST for TOSAs (teachers on special assignment), including all edtech and instructional coaches.
Coach Ben, a Tk-6 TOSA from @alisal_edtech, to me a district initiative is a district focus, something the district is putting resources into. #tosachat
Hi, David from Covina, CA. District Initiative = idea, shift in process/program that upper level management pushes forward from the top down. #tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
Owen, Computer Science Content Specialist, I've found district initiative means something top down, might have buy in, might not, but a district is prioritizing a thing and wants to see that thing in ALL schools #tosachat
A1: Right now there is a district-wide initiative for CS in TK/K-8 along with going 1:1 (Windows laptops & Chromebooks.) Also a district shift towards Office365. #tosachat
In reply to
@cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
A1: I touched on some of our initiatives in the hangout, but we are also restructuring our entire district -- bringing in some magnet schools -- so that's a pretty big initiative! #tosachat
A1: I will repeat what I was writing on YouTube. LOL! My school has just rolled out Chromebooks for the kids and ELA adoption College Springboard. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
Hmm. Well I think the rollout could be smoother and a better training schedule. I jumped in with getting my MIE but haven't seen too much else yet. #tosachat
In reply to
@cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
A1 when does an initiative become a standard practice? From what I'm reading as replies, my district is doing many of those things, seems like a lot, how do we keep track of what to keep, and what not to? #tosachat
#TosaChat A1: Everyone is nose-deep in an ELA adoption pilot after three years of self-created ELA Units of Study. Not so much an initiative as much as a focal point. Hoping to find something that meets our needs.
The key to successful initiatives is that they all align to common shared vision. Coherence is needed or educators will face initiative fatigue & very few if any will be successful. #TOSAchat
Jumping in late to #TOSAchat! Melanie from Salida, District Ed Tech. District initiative means something we are trying to infuse throughout the district - permeate to all sites, Ts and Ss.
some initiatives have been around forever, I'm always thinking, did it work? if yes, then it's a standard practice, if not, let's try something else, that transparency is not always evident #tosachat
A1: This is our 1st yr of implementation of new math curriculum. Currently piloting new Social Studies curriculum. Next year we anticipated going into the pilot year of NGSS curriculum. #tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @peerlessgreen
reading thru the A's and I think my district is trying that out as an initiative, but I'm not sure, or if that was an old initiative that is still on life support #tosachat
A1: In @BerwynSouth100 we continue to refine r standards based reporting. We r in yr 3. Aligning r curriculum across grades & curricular areas. Implementing badging for PL & supporting teachers in the 4Cs, and more #tosachat
A2: In @alisal_edtech we are mostly focused on the 4'Cs, Digital Citizenship, and GAFE tools. We try to support all the other initiatives as best we can. We try to make entry points into other district initiatives as it arrises #tosachat
A1: Wonders ELA adoption this year. Our district has a coaching initiative. 1 math coach for 2 elementary sites and an MOA agreement for 1 ELA coach per site for next year. There have been so many changes, it is difficult to see a pattern. #tosachat
In reply to
@cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
A2: In @alisal_edtech we are mostly focused on the 4'Cs, Digital Citizenship, and GAFE tools. We try to support all the other initiatives as best we can. We try to make entry points into other district initiatives as it arrises #tosachat
A2: I support them all as they directly relate to what I do. How do I balance them? I base on what I see at site need to make as a focal point. #tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
Here is the error message that I get when trying to access YouTube. This video is restricted. Try signing in with a Google Apps account. I am logged in to my School GAFE acct. #tosachat
A2
1. CS in all grades K-12
2. I teach CS once a week in 2 K-5 schools
3. Write curriculum for gr 6 CS course
4. I help with everything else that needs to be done
#tosachat
A2: We have Learning Targets based on Simon Sinek's book Start With Why. It was a bit of a transition since I was taught Objectives. Our lesson/unit plans need to have the WHY. I am getting better at it but it has been a process. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
I agree. However that decision doesn't always happen (at least in a timely manner.) However these stay as initiatives as teachers come into district and need training. #tosachat
Jumping in late to #TOSAchat! Melanie from Salida, District Ed Tech. District initiative means something we are trying to infuse throughout the district - permeate to all sites, Ts and Ss.
What's up #tosachat ! Just dipping in for a few minutes before calling it a night! Nick Zefeldt here from the California Bay Area. Instructional Tech Coordinator at the Contra Costa County Office of Education (but currently on paternity leave).
A2: It’s really all about paying attention to student needs. What they’re interested in. Inquiry based learning is the THEME for any initiative. #tosachat#diveintoinquiry@trev_mackenzie
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @peerlessgreen, @trev_mackenzie
Purposeful planning is something we're working on too. Getting teachers to include engagement strategies and make student centered had been a struggle. Trying to deviate from same ol lessons year in year out and fidelity to pacing guides. #tosachat
In reply to
@MrDsengclasss, @TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
I am focused on instructional coaching in math. Focusing on standards-based practices and teacher training in math CCSS, number talks, integrated ELD, performance tasks #TOSAchat
I have a new role this year as a TOSA CS Content Specialist so I don't have to worry about the dizzying # of initiatives anymore, just the CS one, but out tech integration specialists are pretty overwhelmed #tosachat
In reply to
@reillysusan1, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
A1: This year we implemented Benchmark ELA curriculum TK-5. Every Thurs, two grade levels of Ts come to us for training. Ts loved it spread out over the year instead of a huge summer dump. #tosachat
A3: I try to provide access to all, but support to those who ask. I find the ones that ask really want to push themselves in #edtech and are not overwhelmed in that area. Be ready to jump out when needed! #tosachat
Someone mentioned driving Language Arts with an NGSS thread using World of Wonders. Do I understand that correctly? How long would it it take 1-2 Ts to develop this? What was your timeline? #tosachat
A3: Pacing & creating/focusing on some kind of scope & sequence - whether it’s from the district or on a personal level. Identify the initiatives and actionable things - one a month maybe #tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @peerlessgreen
A2: Benchmark implementation and 1:1 Rollout at the middle school - both are part of my work. Prioritize? Just keep going! Use three-day weekends like this to catch up! #tosachat
A3: As tech coach, I try to help them implement tools to be more efficient and multitask easier. This is the wisdom behind my #ditchthatcopier movement. #tosachat
A3: Initiatives must be relevant to teachers' specific context. We must meet educators where they are at and connect initiatives to their personal teaching vision & passion or there will be no intrinsic motivation or sustainability. #tosachat
A3: I am split on this...on one level, careful change management is critical by leadership. If this is done badly everyone is overwhelmed.
In the other hand some Ts decide they are always overwhelmed anytime anyone "moves their cheese." I have no patience for those.
#TOSAchat
A3 anyone teaching our CS K-5 curriculum can get one of our TOSA's to come out and assist, and in some case directly lead a lesson, multiple times, until they are comfortable, we have a wide variety of Ts teaching CS #tosachat
A3: I'm able to help support teachers by being a good listener, doing cognitive coaching strategies and being a thought partner for prioritizing tasks. #icoachbsd100#tosachat
A2: In case you couldn't tell from my A1...#Gmail is my top priority. It is most of my work world right now. A close second, and really getting our teachers and principals to see the Tech skills required and supported by the #CCSS
...forgot to add the #TOSAchat the first time.
Q3: Living by the mantra, "Everyone doesn't have to be at the finish line tomorrow, but everyone should be growing their practice and making progress" toward the initiatives. Initiatives are important, but should never be the total focus of educators. #tosachat
Love the rigor of the texts and that everything is online and can be pushed to Ss. We rolled out 1:1 CBooks in 1st and 2nd this year, too. That helps. ELD materials are great, too. The online piece is a little clunky, but we're getting there. #tosachat
We also hold monthly PLC meetings for each level of CS, K-5, MS, HS after school, paid, fed, and useful PD where we can sometimes address how to effectively manage tasks on our plates #tosachat
Q3: Living by the mantra, "Everyone doesn't have to be at the finish line tomorrow, but everyone should be growing their practice and making progress" toward the initiatives. Initiatives are important, but should never be the total focus of educators. #tosachat
@KarlyMoura it is SO essential to have the ability to coteach with Ts & support them in the trenches! So lucky to be a site-based TOSA! @DoublePeak_K8#tosachat
A1: The main focus in my district is on implementation of PLC. I am on the front line of leading this initiative. Luckily, we have limited other foci #tosachat
I think it's more about learning right now, we have some librarians who teach CS, some paras, some tech integration specialists, etc so we try to do sample lessons and explorations to show it's not a big deal #tosachat
A3: If I was a coach, I would reassure teachers that you don't have to do everything. Pick one or two items to focus on. Sometimes too many choices can overwhelm a teacher, especially a new teacher. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
Meaning the goal is not to have Ts collaborate, in general there is just 1 T per school, and the Ts are not collaborating across schools, YET #tosachat
A3: Knowing our Ts, creating relationships to know who will need more support and who the high fliers will be. There are a couple who have fallen thru the cracks...need to get back to them!
#tosachat
A4: All initiatives must have a purpose that revolves around students. If it does not further student learning, there is no importance. All educators seem to agree we are here to do what is best for kids. That's what I always cling to. #tosachat
A3: Planning with teachers using the standards as a starting point relieves the time crunch. Also using the standards to create PBL units and integrated units. Also, encouraging them in their efforts by being in the classroom as emotional support #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
Yes, absolutely. It’s so fun to find ways to integrate in as many areas as possible. When we can connect the dots with multiple things, the learning goes to a deeper level. More connected learning #tosachat
A1: The main focus in my district is on implementation of PLC. I am on the front line of leading this initiative. Luckily, we have limited other foci #tosachat
A4: Well I make connections with how it supports the learning environment. So I build training and support as to how it will help them improve their craft. #tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
A4 I think the Ts who come to our PLCs know that we will only talk about one and only one initiative, CS, so they know we won't inundate them with a bunch of things they don't have the time, training, and sometimes interest to implement #tosachat
A4: It helps if you agree. I am a rule follower...but I agree with the focus on PLCs. It has been a blessing that the district focus has been consistent and limited...not switching back and forth #atplc#tosachat
It’s definitely about being thought partners. We’re #BetterTogether when we humble ourselves & know we can learn from each other. I’ve always said - who I am is all those who have supported me - and who I’ll become is bc of those right there w/ me. Let’s do it together #tosachat
The Ts who come to our K-5 CS PLCs are excited and ready to learn more, so they can turn around and be better CS Ts at their sites, it's pretty amazing to see, and infectious #tosachat
A4: If I was a coach, I try to meet with those teachers who need help and work one on one. I would host either a before school or after school session for help or play @JakeMillerTech and create instructional GIFs. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @JakeMillerTech
A4: My team's main vehicle of support is face to face meetings, but we also make sure we support teachers in every encounter we have, sometimes just listening, asking questions or making suggestions. #tosachat
A4: Lately, our initiatives have been focused on the why and what's best for student learning. This angle is harder for resistors to argue with and seems less daunting overall. #tosachat
Yes! To gain teacher trust, the relationship and teacher support needs to be at the forefront. Sometimes, after a while, the teacher may open up and be more receptive to new ideas. #TOSAchat
The problem is folks all have best intentions, but can't/don't stop to think about how to justify what they want to push with regards to student learning. Then there's the thing where we just don't agree about how what some of us are doing furthering student learning. #TOSAchat
A4: it’s hard to tow the party line sometimes- this is why I don’t think I could do the admin thing. I believe in going rogue sometimes. I want to help teachers learn, grow and be great at instruction so our Ss have the best of the best. #tosachat
A5: I tell teachers I am not a pusher of #edtech, I tell them I am here to just offer support when they are ready. You can lead a horse to water, but.... #tosachat
A4: Supporting teachers- always, always remember @MsMagiera's quote I can't find this moment- if you want teachers to think outside of the box you have to get INSIDE the box with them first... meet them where they are first before we can challenge them to innovate! #tosachat
A5: I try to support "buy in" by trying to get the educator to see it thru the children's eyes or how it will benefit kids - go back to the Why? If I can show an example that helps too - seeing is believing. #tosachat
A5: You mean 'those Ts' who give me 'that look' in staff mtgs when we bring it up.... Takes time to build the connections and build the relationship. #tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
A5: Put student needs first. Gotta value their experience and input. Acknowledge their concerns, but use as opportunity to promote growth mindset. #tosachat
A5: You will have people who will criticize and will not participate. The only way to reach those people is talk one and one. Perhaps the teacher/s has /might have a better way, maybe sit down to discuss possiblities. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
A4: All PD is centered around what is relevant to teachers in their classrooms at various levels I work with. I try and weave the initiatives (if they make sense) into what is relevant in the classroom at the ground level #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
Q5: I have to admit I'm in the best situation at a brand new school where all Ts hired are all IN on our innovative practices. BUT we do have to prove to our district what we are doing is crucial, amazing, and what is NECESSARY!#grassrootsmovement#tosachat
A5: We use Daniel Pink's research and make sure I provide these teachers with 3 things: Purpose, Autonomy, & opportunity for Mastery. Learn more as seen at #ISTE17 featuing #adakathttps://t.co/n4jpJI95v7#tosachat
A5: We use Daniel Pink's research and make sure I provide these teachers with 3 things: Purpose, Autonomy, & opportunity for Mastery. Learn more as seen at #ISTE17 featuing #adakathttps://t.co/xCJnNAaAPK#tosachat
I think in #Edtech...whenever someone doesn't "buy in" I find 99% of the time it's about them and not the kids. They're afraid and they throw up a smokescreen of "student concern" to hide their fear...but they're all about themselves.#AintNobodyGotTimeForThat#TOSAchat
It may not be to get them onboard but to get on the same path together. It really may not be “my” path or the district’s path. When we get together and work through things together, we create our shared path. #tosachat
A5: Difficult! Building relationships are really important to earn the trust and continue the conversation. Continue the conversation to keep moving in a positive direction. It takes some longer than others to see and possibly change course #TOSAchat
I think in #Edtech...whenever someone doesn't "buy in" I find 99% of the time it's about them and not the kids. They're afraid and they throw up a smokescreen of "student concern" to hide their fear...but they're all about themselves.#AintNobodyGotTimeForThat#TOSAchat
RIGHT!?
The problem with the "one more thing" ir “time” excuse is that a lot of the time, Ts need to let go of the less effective stuff that they are comfortable with and don't want to let go... THEY MUST GET PAST THEIR COMFORT ZONE!
#TOSAchat
A5: Sometimes the Ss are the ones who push the initiative or new thing. Our 2nd grade Ts started using GClassroom, which meant Ss were expecting it in 3rd grade. #tosachat
@KarlyMoura it’s so important to be in that headspace. I think so many Ts feel like admin don’t remember what it’s like to be in the classroom and to hear that coaches are constantly reminding themselves of that buys a lot of trust with Ts. #tosachat
A6: Always be available for teachers who need help or even to bounce ideas now and again. @KarlyMoura point of remembering what it is like to be a teacher on the frontlines is very important. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura
The business mindset of that video makes is a little difficult in the school environment. My mindset is still relationships and building that to change culture. #tosachat
In reply to
@cogswell_ben, @MrDsengclasss, @TosaChat, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
We had a similar discussion. The point that one of teacher's made (Superintendant now) was that we need to be flexible. Always listen to someone's pow even when you don't agree with it. People want to be heard. They don't need solutions right away. Bounce ideas. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@herrplatt, @TosaChat, @cogswell_ben, @EdTechAri, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen
Q6: I for sure am going to engage and lean on this #tosachat more- loved being able to join this chat (although late ;) b/c of President's Day extra day. You all mean SO much to me connecting in our unique, awesome jobs! Excited to connect! #TOSAchat
A2: I support whatever initiatives my building says I need to. Currently it's Future Ready, Personalized PL, 1:1 iPad. Sometimes it's dizzying! #tosachat
Exactly. Case in point: I had a T who couldn't use email well and as a result didn't want to try. I forced the issue by having a student tech train her and open her mind to the world of Labels. Email world changed. #tosachat
