MAPS
April/May 2013
Volume 10 Number 4
Media Matters
The TimesThey Are A Changing
Click the orange link above to interact with a wiki graphic that show what school librarians do as teachers, leaders, problem-solvers,collaborators, and more. Mouse over the dots on the image to pop-up windows with links and more information. Love the eye glasses. Do all LMS have a pair just like that?
Click the orange link above to interact with a wiki graphic that show what school librarians do as teachers, leaders, problem-solvers,collaborators, and more. Mouse over the dots on the image to pop-up windows with links and more information. Love the eye glasses. Do all LMS have a pair just like that?
At the District Level
Information and Technology
What...a washable keyboard?
Wouldn't one of these be nice at home AND at school? You could spill your "healthy" snacks and never have to worry. Check it out!
Summer Technology Days
Since this is our last newsletter of the year, watch for an email toward the end of the year with more information concerning summer technology workdays and preparing your room for summer cleaning. You may want to start preparing by cleaning out trash, sent email, spam email, and storing all important documents on the server.
The dates are set for summer technology help. Plan for some time one of your two "flex" days when help is available:
Funded Technology for 2013-14
The district software/media budget for next year will fund the items listed below. Thanks for your proposal submissions.
Information & Technology Plan
Each year, the district committee reviews progress toward goals/objectives from the Information & Technology Plan and targets new ones to work on the following year. We will be presenting goals progress this year and 2013-14 focus goals to the School Board on April 18. A brief summary is listed below.
Accomplishments for 2012-13 include: Focusing on research skills in Grades 3 & 4 Language Arts and revising the district Copyright Cafe web site; Updating the MASH/MAMS Library/Media web sites; Identifying and clarifying procedures for wireless access within the district; Developing a plan to communicate new library-media resources to students in Grades 7-12; providing input on Staff and Student Telecommunications and Web Site policies.
Focus areas for 2013-14 include: Transitioning the Grade 8 Tech Literacy testing to 21st Century Skills testing; Updating middle and high school computer labs; Continue working on improving wireless access within the buildings; Focus on staff development in BYOD, Google apps, teacher technology "showcasing" at staff meetings; Inservice staff about updated technology policies; Look at other relevant district policies that impact technology in our district.
Spring Tech Surveys
Again this year, we will be conducting a Grade 12 Exit Survey and Staff Development/Tech Support survey. Both surveys are shorter, so they should be quick and relatively painless. We appreciate your feedback and do use it to address technology needs in our district. Thank you in advance for taking a few minutes to fill out the staff survey!
Tech Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support. Please sign up with Cathy Retzer for a visit.
What...a washable keyboard?
Wouldn't one of these be nice at home AND at school? You could spill your "healthy" snacks and never have to worry. Check it out!
Summer Technology Days
Since this is our last newsletter of the year, watch for an email toward the end of the year with more information concerning summer technology workdays and preparing your room for summer cleaning. You may want to start preparing by cleaning out trash, sent email, spam email, and storing all important documents on the server.
The dates are set for summer technology help. Plan for some time one of your two "flex" days when help is available:
- SES: Monday, August 19, Tuesday, August 20
- MAES : Monday, August 12, Tuesday, August 13
- MAMS: Wednesday. August 7, Thursday August 8
- MASH : Wednesday, August 14, Thursday, August 15
Funded Technology for 2013-14
The district software/media budget for next year will fund the items listed below. Thanks for your proposal submissions.
- 21st Century Skills Online Testing, Grade 8
- Project Lead the Way, Autodesk software
- AP Biology/Biotech Engineering/Human Anatomy CD resources
- Choral Music, Finale
- Virtual Business Sports Simulation
- Reading Eggs Elementary online software
Information & Technology Plan
Each year, the district committee reviews progress toward goals/objectives from the Information & Technology Plan and targets new ones to work on the following year. We will be presenting goals progress this year and 2013-14 focus goals to the School Board on April 18. A brief summary is listed below.
Accomplishments for 2012-13 include: Focusing on research skills in Grades 3 & 4 Language Arts and revising the district Copyright Cafe web site; Updating the MASH/MAMS Library/Media web sites; Identifying and clarifying procedures for wireless access within the district; Developing a plan to communicate new library-media resources to students in Grades 7-12; providing input on Staff and Student Telecommunications and Web Site policies.
Focus areas for 2013-14 include: Transitioning the Grade 8 Tech Literacy testing to 21st Century Skills testing; Updating middle and high school computer labs; Continue working on improving wireless access within the buildings; Focus on staff development in BYOD, Google apps, teacher technology "showcasing" at staff meetings; Inservice staff about updated technology policies; Look at other relevant district policies that impact technology in our district.
Spring Tech Surveys
Again this year, we will be conducting a Grade 12 Exit Survey and Staff Development/Tech Support survey. Both surveys are shorter, so they should be quick and relatively painless. We appreciate your feedback and do use it to address technology needs in our district. Thank you in advance for taking a few minutes to fill out the staff survey!
Tech Support
Thanks for continuing to contact your LMS initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours. Remember, Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES and SES on a monthly basis to provide additional support. Please sign up with Cathy Retzer for a visit.
- MAES: Cathy Retzer
- SES: Cathy Retzer (1 day/week)
- MAMS: Christie Wirz
- MASH: Pat Eloranta
CATT Chronicle Corner
Read & Write Gold
Read and Write Gold is now available in the MASH Read 180 room, MASH resource room, and special education classrooms at MAMS. Read & Write Gold is similar to Kurzweil, which is used by some students in this district. Read & Write Gold has the following features:
Reading
- Text-to-Speech, Screenshot Reader, DAISY Reader, Screen Masking, PDF Aloud
- Dictionary, Picture Dictionary, Speech Maker, Pronunciation Tutor, Translator
- Calculator, Fact Finder, Fact Folder, Fact Mapper, Study Skills Highlighters, Vocabulary List Builder
- Spell Checker, Word Prediction, Word Wizard, Sounds Like and Confusable Words, Verb Checker, Speech Input, Speak While Typing
- Scanning, Teacher’s Toolkit, PDF Accessibility Editor, Testmaker, Create Lexiflow eBooks, Support for MathML , NIMAS Conversion Tool
- Read&Write Web, Read&Write for Google Docs™, eBook Reader, Dictionary, Speech, Spelling
News You Can Use
New Word History Timelines
Grolier Online Encyclopedia now provides an illustrated timeline of world history with links to articles in New Book of Knowledge. To locate the resources, open Groliers, click on New Book of Knowledge and click the link on the left. Mouse over each dot to read about the event for that year. Links to articles are located at the bottom of each pop-up box. See your Library Media Specialist if you need the login/password for Groliers.
MapStory
A free online tool that conveys stories through maps over time. Build an online "timeline map" with your data or datasets that are provided. For an example, try a MapStory of gas prices in the U.S. since 2000. Be sure to turn on the legend to understand graphic.
Who Uses What?
An infographic designed by the Pew Institude breaks down social media to give us a glimpse of who uses what. The current numbers show a drop from 92% to 83% in social media use among 18 to 29 year-olds.
Grolier Online Encyclopedia now provides an illustrated timeline of world history with links to articles in New Book of Knowledge. To locate the resources, open Groliers, click on New Book of Knowledge and click the link on the left. Mouse over each dot to read about the event for that year. Links to articles are located at the bottom of each pop-up box. See your Library Media Specialist if you need the login/password for Groliers.
MapStory
A free online tool that conveys stories through maps over time. Build an online "timeline map" with your data or datasets that are provided. For an example, try a MapStory of gas prices in the U.S. since 2000. Be sure to turn on the legend to understand graphic.
Who Uses What?
An infographic designed by the Pew Institude breaks down social media to give us a glimpse of who uses what. The current numbers show a drop from 92% to 83% in social media use among 18 to 29 year-olds.
Copyright Corner
The jury is in! The case involving resale of used textbooks purchased overseas has been decided. The ruling falls in favor of the student. He has not broken any copyright law by buying and reselling textbooks he purchased overseas. John Wiley textbook company brought the suit against the student who made 1.2 million dollars in his sales. This decision also supports your right to resell a book that you purchased under "Doctrine of First Sale". Read about the decision here.
Copyright and Fair Use Cafe Resources have been update.
Copyright and Fair Use Cafe Resources have been update.
MAPS
February/March 2013
Volume 10 Number 3
Media Matters
Looking for the perfect answer to just about any question? Ask a librarian.
A recent interview with former First Lady Laura Bush reinforces the findings of a Pennsylvania study about the importance of school libraries. To improve test scores, staff your school libraries with certified and support staff, use a flexible schedule and sill the center with current books, computers and videos, and other reading material.
Read the Editorial here.
"Teacher-Librarians at the Heart of Student Learning" : A five-minute video produced by the Washington Library Media Association. This is what Library Media Specialists are all about.
A recent interview with former First Lady Laura Bush reinforces the findings of a Pennsylvania study about the importance of school libraries. To improve test scores, staff your school libraries with certified and support staff, use a flexible schedule and sill the center with current books, computers and videos, and other reading material.
Read the Editorial here.
"Teacher-Librarians at the Heart of Student Learning" : A five-minute video produced by the Washington Library Media Association. This is what Library Media Specialists are all about.
At the District Level
Software/Media Needs
The District Information and Technology Committee is accepting requests for 2013-2014. Please return your request form to Cathy Retzer, MAES & SES; Christie Wirz, MAMS and Kristi DeBruyne, MASH by Friday, February 22. Download from the MAPS Information & Technology page. Scroll down the left side and look for the link under Forms... If you have questions or need help in locating vendors, pricing, etc. please contact Kristi DeBruyne. The team will be meeting to look at requests and you will be notified of acceptance within a month.
Please forward any hardware requests to Dennis Hinderliter and Special Education requests to Joseph Greget.
Using Gaggletube to approve videos for students at MAMS & MASH
Youtube is blocked on all student computers in the district. If your students need to view youtube videos at school, you can approve videos via your Gaggle account. Students will then be able to watch the videos by logging in to their Gaggle accounts, searching for the video(s) on Gaggletube, and watch the videos on student computers. If you need help learning the process, talk to your LIbrary/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne.
Some Easy Web 2.0 Tools to Try This Semester!
Talktyper - Don't like to type? Dictate to your computer, copy it, email it, print it, translate it into other languages
Wallwisher - Create a "wall" and give students the link to post on it for all to view
Today's Meeting - Set up an online room where students can meet, type, and listen
BiteSlide - Set up a class scrapbook where everyone can design their own page
Tagxedo - Build a word cloud (like Wordle) but with a shape!
Symbaloo - Organize all your favorite bookmarks graphically in one place and access from anywhere
Cool Tools for Schools - Find lots of other great tools for your classroom!
Top 100 Apps & Sites for 2012
Tech & Learning magazine has released their choices for the Top 100 Education Apps and Sites for 2012. Check it out.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
The District Information and Technology Committee is accepting requests for 2013-2014. Please return your request form to Cathy Retzer, MAES & SES; Christie Wirz, MAMS and Kristi DeBruyne, MASH by Friday, February 22. Download from the MAPS Information & Technology page. Scroll down the left side and look for the link under Forms... If you have questions or need help in locating vendors, pricing, etc. please contact Kristi DeBruyne. The team will be meeting to look at requests and you will be notified of acceptance within a month.
Please forward any hardware requests to Dennis Hinderliter and Special Education requests to Joseph Greget.
Using Gaggletube to approve videos for students at MAMS & MASH
Youtube is blocked on all student computers in the district. If your students need to view youtube videos at school, you can approve videos via your Gaggle account. Students will then be able to watch the videos by logging in to their Gaggle accounts, searching for the video(s) on Gaggletube, and watch the videos on student computers. If you need help learning the process, talk to your LIbrary/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne.
Some Easy Web 2.0 Tools to Try This Semester!
Talktyper - Don't like to type? Dictate to your computer, copy it, email it, print it, translate it into other languages
Wallwisher - Create a "wall" and give students the link to post on it for all to view
Today's Meeting - Set up an online room where students can meet, type, and listen
BiteSlide - Set up a class scrapbook where everyone can design their own page
Tagxedo - Build a word cloud (like Wordle) but with a shape!
Symbaloo - Organize all your favorite bookmarks graphically in one place and access from anywhere
Cool Tools for Schools - Find lots of other great tools for your classroom!
Top 100 Apps & Sites for 2012
Tech & Learning magazine has released their choices for the Top 100 Education Apps and Sites for 2012. Check it out.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with technology support issues. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
- MAES: Cathy Retzer
- SES: Cathy Retzer (1 day/week), Wendy Fritz
- MAMS: Christie Wirz
- MASH: Pat Eloranta
CATT Chronicle Corner
We have students in our district who receive visual impairment (VI) services through CESA 10. Here are a few apps you may want to explore using an iPad 2 because they require the use of the camera.
EyeSight
A portable magnifier leaving students with the ability to read text anywhere. This app costs $29.99. To find out more check out the link:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/eyesight-app-that-replaces/id512266295?mt=8
Bigger and Brighter
Maximum magnification is up to 20 times so this app could be used as a monocle when you need to see something that is further away. To find out more check out the link:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/brighter-and-bigger/id452483657?mt=8
EyeSight
A portable magnifier leaving students with the ability to read text anywhere. This app costs $29.99. To find out more check out the link:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/eyesight-app-that-replaces/id512266295?mt=8
Bigger and Brighter
Maximum magnification is up to 20 times so this app could be used as a monocle when you need to see something that is further away. To find out more check out the link:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/brighter-and-bigger/id452483657?mt=8
News You Can Use
WI ECB Youtube Channel.
Website: WIMediaLab.org
PBS LearningMedia: ecb.pbslearningmedia.org
YouTube: youtube.com/user/WIECB
Twitter: twitter.com/WIMediaLab
Facebook: facebook.com/WIMediaLab
Website: WIMediaLab.org
PBS LearningMedia: ecb.pbslearningmedia.org
YouTube: youtube.com/user/WIECB
Twitter: twitter.com/WIMediaLab
Facebook: facebook.com/WIMediaLab
Copyright and Fair Use Cafe
We are currently working on updates to the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe website. Links have beenverified and restored. The elementary level powerpoints with examples of citing sources are almost ready to post. Locate the link to the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe on the District Office website.
We are currently working on updates to the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe website. Links have beenverified and restored. The elementary level powerpoints with examples of citing sources are almost ready to post. Locate the link to the Copyright and Fair Use Cafe on the District Office website.
Teaching Today
The monthly issue of Teaching Today, is now available online. Click the active link and bookmark to check for the lastest issue. The link as also been added to the MASH/Internet Start/Teacher page.
The monthly issue of Teaching Today, is now available online. Click the active link and bookmark to check for the lastest issue. The link as also been added to the MASH/Internet Start/Teacher page.
Copyright Corner
Netflix in the Classroom
Is it legal to use your personal Netflix account in the classroom? The answer in a word is No. When you sign up for a Netfix account, you agree to use the content for personal and non-commercial use. While a classrom is non-commercial, it is considered a public performance,not a personal use. This applies to both DVD and streaming video. The only way to legally use this account would be to get permission in writing. A staff member is attempting to secure permission. Watch for updates.
Read the full articles :
Netflix and Academic Libraries : Whether or not Netflix persues a lawsuit does not make the use legal.
A Copyright Lawyer on Netflix: Explains restrictive licenses and fair use
Is it legal to use your personal Netflix account in the classroom? The answer in a word is No. When you sign up for a Netfix account, you agree to use the content for personal and non-commercial use. While a classrom is non-commercial, it is considered a public performance,not a personal use. This applies to both DVD and streaming video. The only way to legally use this account would be to get permission in writing. A staff member is attempting to secure permission. Watch for updates.
Read the full articles :
Netflix and Academic Libraries : Whether or not Netflix persues a lawsuit does not make the use legal.
A Copyright Lawyer on Netflix: Explains restrictive licenses and fair use
MAPS
December 2012/January 2013
Volume 10 Number 2
Media Matters
Are Librarians Still Important? (click to read)
In a word... YES!, by Katie Rix, featured in Scholastic Administr@tor.
In a word... YES!, by Katie Rix, featured in Scholastic Administr@tor.
At the District Level
MAPS Information & Technology Plan Focus Goals
Our District Information and Technology Team met in October and reviewed the approved 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan. Focus goals for 2012-13 are:
Effective Teaching and Learning:
Access to Information Resources and Learning Tools:
Educator Proficiency:
Systems Support and Instructional Leadership
Current Progress on Focus Goals
Elementary Building Visits
Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES & SES each month. Staff are encouraged to sign up with Cathy Retzer for technology support in your classroom. The schedule is posted under District Technology Support Staff Contacts at this address: http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with a technology support issue this year. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
Software/Media Needs for 2013-14
It's already time to start thinking about software/media needs for 2013-14. The Software/Media proposal form is available on the Information & Technology web site at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm under Forms. The proposal will be due by February 22.
Our District Information and Technology Team met in October and reviewed the approved 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan. Focus goals for 2012-13 are:
Effective Teaching and Learning:
- Review common core standards (K-12) English/Language Arts
- Focus on research skills in Grades 3-4 English/Language Arts
- Use the current PLC procedure for reporting technology curriculum upgrades
Access to Information Resources and Learning Tools:
- Develop plan to communicate new resources to students (G7-12)
- Update MASH Library/Media Web Site
- Identify gaps in current wireless access points
- Clarify procedures for wireless access within the district
Educator Proficiency:
- Investigate venues for staff development in response to data collected on staff surveys, student assessments, new resources, and curricular focus.
- Utilize district staff development web site for future technology staff development offerings
Systems Support and Instructional Leadership
- LMSs & Tech Integrator review current telecommunications policies & procedures related to students and make recommendations to School Board
Current Progress on Focus Goals
- Met with Curriculum Director to target area for technology upgrade
- Currently updating the Copyright Cafe web site with resources for staff and students
- Updated the MASH Library/Media web site and inserviced MASH staff
- Reviewed Grade 12 Exit survey from Spring 2012 for feedback on wireless access issues
- Met with all district library/media personnel to review current telecommunications policies/procedures with recommended changes going to policies committee for first/second readings during the 2012/13 school year
Elementary Building Visits
Kristi DeBruyne visits MAES & SES each month. Staff are encouraged to sign up with Cathy Retzer for technology support in your classroom. The schedule is posted under District Technology Support Staff Contacts at this address: http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with a technology support issue this year. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
- MAES: Cathy Retzer
- SES: Cathy Retzer (1 day/week), Wendy Fritz
- MAMS: Christie Wirz
- MASH: Pat Eloranta
Software/Media Needs for 2013-14
It's already time to start thinking about software/media needs for 2013-14. The Software/Media proposal form is available on the Information & Technology web site at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm under Forms. The proposal will be due by February 22.
CATT Chronicle Corner
Apps
Occupational Therapy Apps
Click on the following link to access a spreadsheet of apps used in Occupational Therapy sessions:
https://docs.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=bWVkZm9yZC5rMTIud2kudXN8b2NjdXBhdGlvbmFsLXRoZXJhcHl8Z3g6NTExNjlkNWZmYjc4YzBlYw
Speech and Language Apps for Classrooms
Free Apps
iTalk Free- this is simply a recording app, the student can practice words or phrases from a book or ones that they come up with on their own and afterwards analyze how his/ her speech sounds.
Sparkle Fish free- this is like a mad libs, the student can record his/ her words to complete a story and then play it back to analyze it. The student can use words with his/ her targeted sound.
Apps for Purchase
Articulation Station $49.99- this app provides targeted words and sounds for commonly misarticulated phonemes. This app has a carrier phrase or sentence that primarily includes the targeted sound for maximum practice.
Articulate It $38.99- This app provides pictures and sentences of the particular sound that the student needs to practice.
Artik Pix Full $29.99 this app is very similar to articulation station and while it does present the word on an individual basis and in a sentence, the sentence does not purposefully include the targeted sound
Phono Pix Full $24.99 - this app presents to the student similar pairs that the student may misarticulate. They can hear and then say the pairs that are similar, but have two different initial or final sounds. An example of this would be wing and ring, way and ray, read and weed, etc… This app includes more than the w and r for minimal pairs.
Story Builder $7.99- the student is provided with a picture scene and several questions prompts to create a verbal story. This app allows the student to record and listen to his/ her speech.
Speech Trainer 3D $7.99- this app needs to be used with caution. There are different ways to learn a /r/. However, for those students not in speech, this may give them some guidance.
Spell Board $4.99- record, listen to, and analyze speech when practicing words that are chosen to target the specific sound. The words chosen can be vocabulary words, words with targeted speech sounds, spelling words, etc…
Occupational Therapy Apps
Click on the following link to access a spreadsheet of apps used in Occupational Therapy sessions:
https://docs.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=bWVkZm9yZC5rMTIud2kudXN8b2NjdXBhdGlvbmFsLXRoZXJhcHl8Z3g6NTExNjlkNWZmYjc4YzBlYw
Speech and Language Apps for Classrooms
Free Apps
iTalk Free- this is simply a recording app, the student can practice words or phrases from a book or ones that they come up with on their own and afterwards analyze how his/ her speech sounds.
Sparkle Fish free- this is like a mad libs, the student can record his/ her words to complete a story and then play it back to analyze it. The student can use words with his/ her targeted sound.
Apps for Purchase
Articulation Station $49.99- this app provides targeted words and sounds for commonly misarticulated phonemes. This app has a carrier phrase or sentence that primarily includes the targeted sound for maximum practice.
Articulate It $38.99- This app provides pictures and sentences of the particular sound that the student needs to practice.
Artik Pix Full $29.99 this app is very similar to articulation station and while it does present the word on an individual basis and in a sentence, the sentence does not purposefully include the targeted sound
Phono Pix Full $24.99 - this app presents to the student similar pairs that the student may misarticulate. They can hear and then say the pairs that are similar, but have two different initial or final sounds. An example of this would be wing and ring, way and ray, read and weed, etc… This app includes more than the w and r for minimal pairs.
Story Builder $7.99- the student is provided with a picture scene and several questions prompts to create a verbal story. This app allows the student to record and listen to his/ her speech.
Speech Trainer 3D $7.99- this app needs to be used with caution. There are different ways to learn a /r/. However, for those students not in speech, this may give them some guidance.
Spell Board $4.99- record, listen to, and analyze speech when practicing words that are chosen to target the specific sound. The words chosen can be vocabulary words, words with targeted speech sounds, spelling words, etc…
News You Can Use
Google Docs Now Google Drive
If you have not checked your Google Docs account recently, you may have trouble spotting the link. Look for Google Drive.
NEW! Classroom Videos, Free Online via WI Media Lab
Badgerlink and the Wisconsin Educational Communications Board have teamed up to provide some educational programs online. Use the links below to search by title or subject. Programs followed by TV can only be viewed on television. Some have Watch Now (view online) and/or Download (save for later) options. Give it a try by Title or Subject.
Appitic : http://www.appitic.com
Looking for a new app? This website organizes great apps by category, such as; Theme, Bloom's Taxomomy, Special Education, Spanish Language, MI (Multiple Intelligence), Preschool and NETS (National Education Technology Standards). Also find teacher resources and management apps. The cost is listed and Free apps are noted.
If you have not checked your Google Docs account recently, you may have trouble spotting the link. Look for Google Drive.
NEW! Classroom Videos, Free Online via WI Media Lab
Badgerlink and the Wisconsin Educational Communications Board have teamed up to provide some educational programs online. Use the links below to search by title or subject. Programs followed by TV can only be viewed on television. Some have Watch Now (view online) and/or Download (save for later) options. Give it a try by Title or Subject.
Appitic : http://www.appitic.com
Looking for a new app? This website organizes great apps by category, such as; Theme, Bloom's Taxomomy, Special Education, Spanish Language, MI (Multiple Intelligence), Preschool and NETS (National Education Technology Standards). Also find teacher resources and management apps. The cost is listed and Free apps are noted.
Copyright Corner
Lawsuit Over Reselling Textbooks
A college student who purchased and resold textbooks has been sued by John Wiley, the textbook company claiming that they have exclusive right to distribute the textbook. The student purchased the books in his native Thailand where they are much cheaper and resold them on eBay, grossing $1.2 million. The heart of the case is in the doctrine of "first sale", the right that allows individuals and libraries to buy a book to lend, gift or resell at a garage sale. Will a win for the textbook company bring sweeping changes? The Supreme Court will be ruling on the case early next year. I'll keep you posted. Read the article here.
A college student who purchased and resold textbooks has been sued by John Wiley, the textbook company claiming that they have exclusive right to distribute the textbook. The student purchased the books in his native Thailand where they are much cheaper and resold them on eBay, grossing $1.2 million. The heart of the case is in the doctrine of "first sale", the right that allows individuals and libraries to buy a book to lend, gift or resell at a garage sale. Will a win for the textbook company bring sweeping changes? The Supreme Court will be ruling on the case early next year. I'll keep you posted. Read the article here.
MAPS
October/November 2012
Volume 10 Number 1
Media Matters
Losing Librarians = Losing on Reading Tests
A recently published Colorado study looked at the impact of losing certified school librarians on standardized reading scores. The study compares the differences in 4th grade reading scores in schools that had staffing changes in the library from 2005 to 2011. We have always heard that a certified LMS has a positive impact on test scores, but does the converse also hold true? As expected where library media specialists have been retained or added, reading scores continue to rise. Where library positions have been cut, or replaced with uncertified staff, 4th graders are falling behind.
"Schools that either maintained or gained an endorsed librarian between 2005 and 2011 tended to have more students scoring advanced in reading in 2011 and to have increased their performance more since 2005 (45% and 49%, respectively) than schools that either lost their librarians or never had one ( 33% and 29%). Conversely, schools that either lost a librarian during that period or never had one (33% and 39%) tended to have fewer students scoring advanced in 2011 and to have seen lesser gains—or indeed, losses—since 2005 than schools that maintained or gained a librarian (23% and 18%)."
School Library Media Specialist make a difference.
Read the entire report here.
A recently published Colorado study looked at the impact of losing certified school librarians on standardized reading scores. The study compares the differences in 4th grade reading scores in schools that had staffing changes in the library from 2005 to 2011. We have always heard that a certified LMS has a positive impact on test scores, but does the converse also hold true? As expected where library media specialists have been retained or added, reading scores continue to rise. Where library positions have been cut, or replaced with uncertified staff, 4th graders are falling behind.
"Schools that either maintained or gained an endorsed librarian between 2005 and 2011 tended to have more students scoring advanced in reading in 2011 and to have increased their performance more since 2005 (45% and 49%, respectively) than schools that either lost their librarians or never had one ( 33% and 29%). Conversely, schools that either lost a librarian during that period or never had one (33% and 39%) tended to have fewer students scoring advanced in 2011 and to have seen lesser gains—or indeed, losses—since 2005 than schools that maintained or gained a librarian (23% and 18%)."
School Library Media Specialist make a difference.
Read the entire report here.
At the District Level
The Information & Technology Team
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. The team will be meeting on October 11. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan was reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Instruction this past summer. The team will prioritize and work toward achieving specific goals for the 2012-13 school year. To view the entire plan, visit the updated district site at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2012 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Focus Goals
Some tech-related goals for the district include: review of common core standards and curriculum upgrades incorporating technology, professional development to support curriculum changes, reviewing wireless technology in the district, looking at specific technology skills to meet district initiatives, and district technology policies related to staff and students.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with a technology support issue this year. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
MASH: Pat Eloranta; MAMS: Christie Wirz; MAES: Cathy Retzer; SES: Wendy Fritz
Our District Information and Technology Team members are: Kristi DeBruyne, Pat Eloranta, Shari Gajewski, Charlie Heckel, Dennis Hinderliter, Laura Lundy, Caroline Radlinger, Cathy Retzer, Jenny Shipman, Margo Swedlund, Lisa Vanusek, and Christie Wirz. The team will be meeting on October 11. Please feel free to contact your Library/Media Specialist or Kristi DeBruyne with any tech-related topics you would like the committee to discuss.
The Plan
The 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan was reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Instruction this past summer. The team will prioritize and work toward achieving specific goals for the 2012-13 school year. To view the entire plan, visit the updated district site at http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/index.htm.
You will also find links to results of the Spring 2012 surveys of Grade 12 and Staff Tech Support/Staff Development.
Focus Goals
Some tech-related goals for the district include: review of common core standards and curriculum upgrades incorporating technology, professional development to support curriculum changes, reviewing wireless technology in the district, looking at specific technology skills to meet district initiatives, and district technology policies related to staff and students.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with a technology support issue this year. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
MASH: Pat Eloranta; MAMS: Christie Wirz; MAES: Cathy Retzer; SES: Wendy Fritz
CATT Chronicle Corner
We currently have this new version at Medford. When it comes to correcting a word or phrase, Dragon now includes more choices to make it quicker and easier to make a change. When making a correction, Dragon learns from it resulting in an increase in accuracy. Dragon 12 continues to have an interactive tutorial. This tutorial can be accessed after user creation or at any time for reference. The text-to-speech voice is natural-sounding and it reads editable text. Options include fast-forward, rewind, speed and volume control to assist with proofing.
CATT Members: Caroline Radlinger, OTR; Lorie Schmitz, COTA; Sheryl Balciar, SLP; Eiza Decker, SLP; Ann Jochimsen, SLP; Mike Daniels, PT
CATT Members: Caroline Radlinger, OTR; Lorie Schmitz, COTA; Sheryl Balciar, SLP; Eiza Decker, SLP; Ann Jochimsen, SLP; Mike Daniels, PT
News You Can Use
Got Toner?
Please return empty printer toner cartridges to your building Library Media Specialist. She will handle recycling for your building. Orders for additional toner for each building will also be handled by the LMC. Toner orders typically arrive within a day or two.
Exercise Your Brain
Looking for brain teasers, riddles, puzzles? Loads of links to stimulate thinking can be found on Exercise your Brain.
Please return empty printer toner cartridges to your building Library Media Specialist. She will handle recycling for your building. Orders for additional toner for each building will also be handled by the LMC. Toner orders typically arrive within a day or two.
Exercise Your Brain
Looking for brain teasers, riddles, puzzles? Loads of links to stimulate thinking can be found on Exercise your Brain.
Copyright Corner
Movie Time
Each building in our district owns a license from Movie Licensing USA, to allow viewing movies for entertainment, clubs, rewards, homeroom and after school activities. Please check the official website to verify that the movie you wish to show is included in our license.
Movies directly related to the curriculum objectives of the day may be shown under Fair Use. Be sure the movie you show is a legal copy. Be aware that movies from Netflix are not legal in the classroom or library. The license agreement you have accepted states that you will use it for personal (at home with immediate household). More information on LibraryLaw Blog and Netlix in Libraries and Hyprocisy.
Copyright Trolls
My first reaction to this new term was a vision of the "Three Billy Goats Gruff". I quickly learned that a copyright troll looks for copyrighted material on the web (usually newspaper articles re-posted in blogs), files a copyright registration on the material only to turn around and sue those who have used it. The trolls will settle out of court or take you through court for damages in the thousands of dollars. The moral of this tale is to be careful about what you repost. Read more here.
Each building in our district owns a license from Movie Licensing USA, to allow viewing movies for entertainment, clubs, rewards, homeroom and after school activities. Please check the official website to verify that the movie you wish to show is included in our license.
Movies directly related to the curriculum objectives of the day may be shown under Fair Use. Be sure the movie you show is a legal copy. Be aware that movies from Netflix are not legal in the classroom or library. The license agreement you have accepted states that you will use it for personal (at home with immediate household). More information on LibraryLaw Blog and Netlix in Libraries and Hyprocisy.
Copyright Trolls
My first reaction to this new term was a vision of the "Three Billy Goats Gruff". I quickly learned that a copyright troll looks for copyrighted material on the web (usually newspaper articles re-posted in blogs), files a copyright registration on the material only to turn around and sue those who have used it. The trolls will settle out of court or take you through court for damages in the thousands of dollars. The moral of this tale is to be careful about what you repost. Read more here.
April/May 2012
MAPS | MASH | MAMS | MAES / SESApril / May 2012
Volume 9 Number 4
Media Matters
Over 20 studies in the United States and Canada have shown the strong correlation between robust library media programs and student success. A graduate class from Mansfield University, Mansfield, Pennsylvania recently summarized the research findings on the impact of school library media programs. The results are available in variety of formats on their web page. A sampling of the major findings concerning instruction includes:
"Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside a dog, it's too dark to read."
--Groucho Marx (1895-1977)
At the District Level
Information and Technology
Summmer Techology Days
Since this is our last newsletter of the year, watch for an email toward the end of the year with more information concerning summer technology workdays and preparing your room for summer cleaning. You may want to start preparing by cleaning out email sent and trash and storing all important documents on the server.
The Dates are set for summer technology help. Plan one of your two "flex" days when help is available:
SES: Monday, August 20, Tuesday, August 21
MAES : Wednesday, August 15, Thursday, August 16
MAMS: Wednesay. August 8, Thursday August 9
MASH : Monday, August 13, Tuesday, August 14
Technology Plan
The draft 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is complete. We will be presenting the plan to the School Board on April 19. Check out the draft goals and objectives here: http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/Documents/DraftGoals2012-15.pdf
Basically, our goals include: working on integrating the new Common Core Standards into library and technology use to increase student achievement; improving wireless infrastructure; updating and publicizing library media additions; providing professional development for staff and updating policies for emerging technologies.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with a technology support issue this year. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
MAES: Cathy Retzer
SES: Cathy Retzer (1 day/week), library support person
MAMS: Christie Wirz
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT Members-- Caroline Radlinger, Mike Daniels, Sheryl Balciar, Ann Jochimsen, Eliza Decker, Kelli Elmhorst
Light Box
The district just recently received a Light Box for an early childhood student from CESA 10. This tool may be useful to teach a variety of students, not only those with low or poor vision. The high contrast background by the Light Box’s illuminated surface makes a variety of visual tasks easier to perform. In addition, the brightly colored items used on the Light Box are attractive, and the novelty of the materials motivates students to utilize their vision. Some examples of activities with the light box are:
News You Can Use
The Surveys are Comings
Your opinions are needed and valued. The annual staff survey regarding technology and professional development will be distributed via Survey Monkey in May. We will also be gathering data from the Senior Class of 2012. Stay tuned for more details.
CESA 10 IMC
Our district no longer subscribes to some CESA 10 IMC services. Send CESA materials to Pat Eloranta at the MASH Library for distribution and please use two envelopes. Address the outside Inter-Department envelope to MASH, the inside envelope to CESA 10. Deliveries are on Tuesdays through April 24; Tuesday and Thursday from May 1 - June 7 and back to one day per week for the summer.
Wisconsin Educational Communication Board
News from the ECB is in the form of a blog. Click here to access and interact with news from the Wisconsin Educational Communication Board.
Copyright CORNER
Music in Projects
Music adds so much to Photostories, PowerPoints and iMovies. Be aware that full pieces of copyrighted, popular music can only be used with written permission from the copyright holder. The Fair Use Guidelines suggest 30 seconds or 10% whichever is shorter. The amount you may use of a three-minute song would only be 18 seconds (3 X 60 seconds = 180 /10 = 18 seconds). While you could loop or repeat a short section of a song, consider using Soundzabound. Provided through Badgerlink, Soundzaboundoffers short, medium and full-length music of all styles. These original pieces are arranged by style, length and author and many sound like popular music. Check with your Library Media Specialist to learn more.
Volume 9 Number 4
Media Matters
Over 20 studies in the United States and Canada have shown the strong correlation between robust library media programs and student success. A graduate class from Mansfield University, Mansfield, Pennsylvania recently summarized the research findings on the impact of school library media programs. The results are available in variety of formats on their web page. A sampling of the major findings concerning instruction includes:
- Students see that they get good grades, particularly on research projects and assignments, when there is a highly qualified school librarian to instruct and help them. (Ohio 2003)
- Schools where the librarian spends more time on instructionally-related student and teacher activities have higher WKCE scores. (Wisconsin 2006)
- School librarians help students acquire unique skills not taught in the classroom and information and technology skills essential for students in the 21st century. (Wisconsin 2006)
- Elementary students score higher on state tests when the library is aligned with the state curriculum frameworks. This fact is especially true in schools that have a high
percentage of free school lunches—the socioeconomic factor. (Massachusetts 2000)
"Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside a dog, it's too dark to read."
--Groucho Marx (1895-1977)
At the District Level
Information and Technology
Summmer Techology Days
Since this is our last newsletter of the year, watch for an email toward the end of the year with more information concerning summer technology workdays and preparing your room for summer cleaning. You may want to start preparing by cleaning out email sent and trash and storing all important documents on the server.
The Dates are set for summer technology help. Plan one of your two "flex" days when help is available:
SES: Monday, August 20, Tuesday, August 21
MAES : Wednesday, August 15, Thursday, August 16
MAMS: Wednesay. August 8, Thursday August 9
MASH : Monday, August 13, Tuesday, August 14
Technology Plan
The draft 2012-15 Information & Technology Plan is complete. We will be presenting the plan to the School Board on April 19. Check out the draft goals and objectives here: http://www2.medford.k12.wi.us:8400/infotech/Documents/DraftGoals2012-15.pdf
Basically, our goals include: working on integrating the new Common Core Standards into library and technology use to increase student achievement; improving wireless infrastructure; updating and publicizing library media additions; providing professional development for staff and updating policies for emerging technologies.
Tech Support
Remember to contact the following folks initially with a technology support issue this year. Our goal is to follow up on technology needs within 24 hours.
MAES: Cathy Retzer
SES: Cathy Retzer (1 day/week), library support person
MAMS: Christie Wirz
CATT Chronicle Corner
CATT Members-- Caroline Radlinger, Mike Daniels, Sheryl Balciar, Ann Jochimsen, Eliza Decker, Kelli Elmhorst
Light Box
The district just recently received a Light Box for an early childhood student from CESA 10. This tool may be useful to teach a variety of students, not only those with low or poor vision. The high contrast background by the Light Box’s illuminated surface makes a variety of visual tasks easier to perform. In addition, the brightly colored items used on the Light Box are attractive, and the novelty of the materials motivates students to utilize their vision. Some examples of activities with the light box are:
- Make a necklace using beads that are placed on the light box to form a pattern or teach colors.
- Do sorting activities on the light box.
- Slinky (connected to handle and hanging over lighted surface, wrap other end onto student’s wrist to encourage arm movement).
News You Can Use
The Surveys are Comings
Your opinions are needed and valued. The annual staff survey regarding technology and professional development will be distributed via Survey Monkey in May. We will also be gathering data from the Senior Class of 2012. Stay tuned for more details.
CESA 10 IMC
Our district no longer subscribes to some CESA 10 IMC services. Send CESA materials to Pat Eloranta at the MASH Library for distribution and please use two envelopes. Address the outside Inter-Department envelope to MASH, the inside envelope to CESA 10. Deliveries are on Tuesdays through April 24; Tuesday and Thursday from May 1 - June 7 and back to one day per week for the summer.
Wisconsin Educational Communication Board
News from the ECB is in the form of a blog. Click here to access and interact with news from the Wisconsin Educational Communication Board.
Copyright CORNER
Music in Projects
Music adds so much to Photostories, PowerPoints and iMovies. Be aware that full pieces of copyrighted, popular music can only be used with written permission from the copyright holder. The Fair Use Guidelines suggest 30 seconds or 10% whichever is shorter. The amount you may use of a three-minute song would only be 18 seconds (3 X 60 seconds = 180 /10 = 18 seconds). While you could loop or repeat a short section of a song, consider using Soundzabound. Provided through Badgerlink, Soundzaboundoffers short, medium and full-length music of all styles. These original pieces are arranged by style, length and author and many sound like popular music. Check with your Library Media Specialist to learn more.