NYS Ed Tech Innovators - March 2018

This edition of NYS Ed Tech Innovators focuses on school and library use of makerspaces, or collaborative spaces set up to encourage students to use materials to explore, design, create, and problem solve. In Makerspaces Build STEAM for Learning, the creation of makerspaces in Wappingers School District supports science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, and reading, and has had a positive impact on school climate and culture. At Edward R. Andrews Elementary School, makerspace activities are incorporated into library classes and a Makerspace Club, allowing students to create, innovate, experiment, design and explore the world around them with various projects, such as creating safe homes for the Three Little Pigs, or programming video games based upon books. Lastly, in Making It A Reality, Pelham Public Schools recount how community partnerships, active stakeholders, repurposing of working spaces, and grant writing led to the opening of makerspaces in six schools.

In addition, please register for the upcoming conference on Personalized Learning: Technology-Enhanced Instruction and Practices to Meet the Needs of All NYS Students, which will be held on May 24, 2018 at the Albany Capital Center. Sponsored by NYSCATE, with participation from NYSED, this one-day conference will focus on exploring the ways that schools and districts can use technology to facilitate personalized learning to meet the needs of all New York State Students. Educators in all roles are invited to join the conversation and share expertise as we work together to scale successful programs and practices and ensure all students receive a quality education that prepares them for school, work, and life in the 21^st Century. The conference is free for educators, and CTLE credit is available. NYSCATE/NYSED are also actively seeking proposals for conference presentations. Presentation proposals can be submitted online through March 25, and are welcome from public schools/districts; BOCES/RICs; religious, independent, and charter schools; and non-profit organizations serving P-12 education. We look forward to seeing you in May!