Birds of a Feather

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(a great place for copyright free images)

Have you ever wanted to get together with other teachers and talk about just ONE technology tool? Taking the time to share and find out what others are doing with said tool? If so, this may be of interest to you --

I'm super excited to facilitate the first "Birds of a Feather" Technology session this year. True (if I pay attention to the calendar), it's likely to be the last session as well. Nevertheless, it's sure to be a fun time to get together, share ideas and enjoy focusing on ONE topic.




This first Birds of a Feather session is called "Appy Hour" and will be about how iPads are being used in the classroom. If you have any interest in learning how other teachers are using these devices, please consider attending. I'll have a few tips and tricks to share too.
Click on the Doodle Sign-Up link below if you're interested in joining this flock. The link will allow you to help decide on the best day to meet. I'll be in touch with all who sign up and we'll go with the majority. Please sign up by Monday (4/29) so I can start making final arrangements.
If this time of year is too crazy to even begin to think of adding this to your plate, no worries. There will be more "Birds of a Feather" sessions offered next year.

Birds of a Feather's "Appy Hour" 

 Doodle Sign-Up

Three Bonus Items:
1. Ed1stop continues to run the SimpleK12 pilot (through June 1). Just log on to ed1stop and you'll find it under Announcements. It is FULL of amazing video tutorials for teachers.
In addition to SimpleK12, ed1stop is also running a new pilot from Infobase of new databases (through June 17). Science online Facts on File, American History Online Facts on File, Writer's Reference Center - all aligned to the common core. These are great resources for middle school. The World Almanac for Kids looks awesome for elementary.
Finally, we have a pilot going on with World Book Online, thanks to the OIS and District Librarian, Linda Odelson.
Go to: World Book Online
           username: americas
           password: clover

If you're cruising around in any of these resources and want to provide feedback, please complete the super short survey below.
Feedback for Resources 

2. For a recent video of a 30 minute conversation with celebrated author, Peter H. Reynolds, click on: Great chat with Peter H. Reynolds.
The video includes Peter reading The Dot as well as answering questions from students in Alabama. This was created on Friday, April 20 so there is some reference to the hard time Boston was experiencing last week.

3. Guerilla Girl - Posted just three days ago, here's a great video about people doing good deeds. This was created by Carol Whittaker, a parent of former OUSD students, Spencer and Olivia Whittaker. Very clever with a powerful message. Enjoy!