One downside was the reality that many of the students were much further in their coursework than I.  Therefore, they were discussing topics, which I could not relate too, such as the internship.  The discussion of the internship was confusing to me since I am not at that point of my course work.

• having access to technologies tools, resources and services to individualize learning 24/7
• use information and communication technologies to collaborate, construct knowledge and provide solution to real-world problems and situations that are encountered
• use research-based strategies in all subject areas to improve academic achievement
• communicate effectively in a variety of formats for diverse audience

In this digital society, students must be taught to take an active role in their learning.  The skills needed to succeed in the global marketplace are collaboration, evaluation, and communication.  Teachers’ today are challenged with seamlessly integrating technology and creating a learning environment that allows for students’ development of these skills in a manner that is individualized and relevant to the student.  

This is a high challenge and task for educators today.  The district I work in, with the support of the community has taken this challenge head on by creating technology rich learning environments.  The district has provided a 3 to 1 laptop ratio at the high school level, 1 to 1 at the middle school level, provided 5 laptops per classroom in grades 3-6 and 1 desktop to students in grades PreK -2.   Each campus is also provided a minimum of one computer lab.  Is this ideal, no, but it is a step in the right direction.  The decision to create technology rich learning environments has been driven by the Texas Long-Range Plan, data collected in the district and the vision of the district.  The district places individualized, engaged instruction at the forefront of professional development for teachers.  The district makes use of technology as a learning tool that should be integrated with the learning not as a separate entity.  Overall, I think our district is well on its way to a fully integrated technology in the educational environment.  I also believe the vision of the district allows teachers the opportunity to explore new ways of teaching with technology.

The week continued with basketball and great tickets, thanks to friends, to the Mavs game!  They beat NY 99 to 94.

We are slowly getting backing into school.  This is our first full week back so the count down to summer will begin soon.

Christmas morning....oh the fun

Break was a blast…with snow and travel.  The kids had their first “white” Christmas.  It was fun seeing family and friends.  The Ohio State tour and basketball game were top on the list.  

Back on the sled again.

Sledding was great.  B2 started with a wipe out that actually resulted in some blood and tears.  But after a quick warm up in the car, out he went again.

Watching the kids play in the snow gave me a whole new appreciation for the cold.

Skating on Christmas Day

My favorite was skating in Millennium Park on Christmas Day, then coffee at Caribou.  It was definitely, a great break filled with wonderful memories!  Now we have 2009 to make some more great travel memories

Going out to eat after the race...yes, we can still walk!

So here we go again….a blog to keep connect in this crazy busy thing we call life.  Two weeks ago, I was in NYC running the marathon; what an experience!  For the full marathon, I saw nothing but runners in front of me, around me and behind me.  The people of NY were great fans!  WOW, they were out in droves giving us crazy runners support.  Best of all, I ran for SAM and raised $$ form MD.  It felt good to help others.

Basketball season is upon us….B1 is loving CBS sports fantasy basketball.  

B2 has started piano lessons and definitely has natural talent…who knows where he might go!

Stay tuned for updates as I get used to the world of blogging….