I spent the past two days at my state’s summer institute.  They brought together leaders from school systems to look through the Common Core standards and how to continue implementing them in our schools.  We began this process last summer, and this represented a time to reflect on our progress and start next steps.  Of course last year they really did not provide a technology strand, but this year they did.  Much of what we learned though, dealt with things we are already on board with.

• We know the need to collaborate with teachers and media coordinators.  We provide the expertise on tools and ways to integrate technology into the classrooms, but we just need opportunities to do this.
• We know to look for activities for higher level thinking activities.  None of this drill-n-kill software…but thing to allow students to evaluate, synthesize, and create.  I really like this Bloom chart for whatever flavor of tablet you use (http://www.schrockguide.net/bloomin-apps.html).  Schrock does a nice job focusing on iOS, Android, and then just Google Tools.  One of my frustrations at this institute was the lovefest on Apple.  Did you know, for instance, all this creativity is due to Apple.  They single-handedly revolutionize education with their creativity.  *Grumble, grumble*
• I do appreciate the focus on technology/collaboration.  This institute provided ongoing mentions of the great need for that–working with the lead district people, lead curriculum people, and other teachers.  Hopefully they go back to their colleagues and reiterate that need.

We definitely appreciate the opportunities Common Core provided.  We are in the process of a full upgrade to wifi in all of our schools.  Lots of pd opportunities abound.  We just need to make sure we do not lose this opportunity.