Tools and Tips for Coming Back to In-Person Learning

Back-to-school this fall will be monumental for many K-12 schools because it’s the first opportunity for in-person learning. And while administrators, teachers and students are likely ready to hang up their virtual classrooms, some of the technology can enhance in-person learning. Using digital tools to enhance classroom learning was happening way before the pandemic. Now, because we had to pivot to an online environment, we’re all a little savvier about which tools we’d like to keep. Here are some that you should definitely take back to school with you.

• Google Slides: Google Slides allows teachers to create, edit and share presentations and multiple students can work on a presentation at the same time, making it ideal for collaboration. Google Slides can also be used as an outline during lectures and offers templates for student engagement. Google Slides is always saving so you never have to worry about losing your work. Google for Education offers teachers tips and tricks on how to get the most out of this tool. For example, teachers can watch a quick video on how to insert audio into Google Slides or how to link presentations.
  

• Customized Desktop Icons: Mac and PC users can create customized icons for desktop folders. Changing icons is a fun way to personalize computers and laptops. Windows offers built-in options but PC users can also download icons from multiple websites. According to HowToGeek.com, PC users need to access the Desktop Icon Settings to change their icons. In Windows 10, you can access this window through Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop Icon Settings. In Windows 8 and 10, it’s Control Panel > Personalize > Change Desktop Icons. For Mac users, 9to5Mac.com says to open Finder and navigate to Applications. Click the app you’d like to change the icon for and hit Command + I. Copy your new image (Command + C), click the small thumbnail of the app icon and past the new image (Command + V). 
  

• Seesaw: Seesaw creates a powerful learning loop between students, teachers and families. Students use built-in multimodal tools to capture what they know in Seesaw’s digital lesson portfolio. Teachers see all stages of student thinking and progress and families can see what’s happening with their sons and daughters. Teachers can get started by manually entering students or integrating classes from Google Classroom. If younger students don't have email accounts, there's also an option for them to sign in using a QR or text code. Seesaw has tons of training and professional development for teachers, students and families. And it’s free to sign up.
  

• Flipgrid: Even before the pandemic, educators were flipping for Flipgrid. Flipgrid is a video discussion platform used by tens of millions of PreK to PhD educators, students and families in 150 countries. It works on Chromebooks, iPads, iPhones, PCs and Android devices. This software has tons of uses. Students can talk to each other and teachers, so everyone is engaged and on the same page. Administrators can use it to engage their professional learning network. Flipgrid can build community among staff and create conversation beyond small talk. Just returned from a conference and have something to share? Take a few minutes and use a grid.

No matter if it’s in-person, hybrid or virtual, digital tools will always have a place in learning. Tell us which digital tools you can’t teach without!

Why Tablets Are Great for K-12 Learning

Many households see laptops as tools for work and tablets for fun. But using tablets for learning just makes sense.

Benefits to Tablets

Ideal for K-3: Tablets are great for young learners. Similar to phones or other mobile devices, tablets are tech that kids are likely already familiar with. They have easy-to-use interfaces that make navigating them a snap, even for the littlest learners.

Easy on the Budget: Tablets can also be cost-effective. Most elementary school students aren’t quite adept at using keyboards yet so buying this modification isn’t necessary until at least middle school. 

Ultra-Portable: Tablets can easily be transported around the classroom or building. Tablets are generally much lighter, many weighing about one pound, so they’re easy to carry. A tablet can go from the desk, to the floor, to the library without a special carrying case.

Great App Integration. Tablets are ideal for utilizing apps as many don’t work off an operating system like a laptop. For example, Google Workspace for Education offers free collaboration tools like Classroom, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms and more, which all can be downloaded as apps.

Other Perks: There are other pros to using a tablet for learning as well. Tablets don’t take up a lot of room and have a long battery life. A tablet’s screen also makes it easy to write notes on or draw. But as with any tool, there’s always a couple of cons.

Downsides to Tablets

Using a Touchscreen Keyboard: Touchscreen keyboards have their issues. They don’t offer a keyboard feel, which can not only take some getting used to but can lead to inaccuracies. Typing on one all day isn’t as productive as a standard laptop keyboard. Researchers found the average typing speed on a touchscreen keyboard is only 25 words per minute compared to 63 on a traditional keyboard.

Not as Durable as Laptops: One of the biggest benefits to using tablets, their portability, can make them more susceptible to breakage. Kids can easily carry laptops from desk to library to lunchroom leading to more opportunities for damage. Tablets are also much thinner than most laptops so drops and bangs can easily cause damage. Investing in a shockproof case is a good solution as well as training on how to care for tablets.

A 2 in 1 Chromebook is a great solution that offers the accessibility of learning apps, like Google for Education apps, but the durability that a laptop provides. 

Popular 2 in 1s for Education

Lenovo 300e Gen 3

The Lenovo 300e Chromebook Gen3 is an 11.6-inch, flexible, 2-in-1 education laptop. Students can simply tap, scroll and swipe with a finger or use the optional garaged stylus, just like they would on a tablet. But, because it’s a 2-in-1, there’s also a full-sized keyboard. And because it is made for education, it features a tough-as-nails Corning® Gorilla® Glass panel, which allows it to stand up to scratches. It is pretty light as well, only weighing about 3 pounds. It also has multiple ports and boasts an all-day battery life. WiFi 6 connects fast and easy and with an optional 4G/LTE, it’s great for in-class and virtual learning.

Dell 3100 2-in-1

The Dell 3100 2-in-1 Chromebook is designed for interactive learning. Not only does it offer multiple ways to learn, but it is also designed to last all day and resist whatever K-12 students can dish out. It’s tested to survive 5,000 free fall micro-drops and 30-inch drops onto steel, while rubberized edges minimize impacts from drops and bumps. The spill and tamper-resistant keyboard withstands up to 12 ounces of liquid. The touch screen is also made of Corning® Gorilla® Glass which delivers eight to 10 times higher scratch resistance. The 3100 also weighs about three pounds. 

Making decisions about what EdTech will work best for you school is easier with a trusted partner. Arey Jones has been working with K-12 educators for the past three decades. We know EdTech and we’re here to help. Contact us today.

How COVID-19 is Reshaping Education

K-12 schools have never understood the importance of educational technology more than they did when the COVID-19 pandemic shut everything down across the country in 2020. Now being “technically” ready to allow kids and teachers to learn from home isn’t just a wish, it’s a necessity. K-12 schools should look to invest in a range of tech upgrades that will make a big difference in learning come fall.

1. Invest in better microphones and cameras. Pandemic-forced shutdowns forced everyone to quickly realize the importance of having good audio-visual equipment. Invest in microphones and cameras that allow instructors to move and teach, no matter if the class is online or in-person. EdTech Magazine says there are a variety of cameras with tracking functions, like AVer’s TR310 and TR530. Microphones vary with need but those that combine speaker and microphone capabilities, like AudioCodes 457, are ideal for hybrid learning as students at home can hear responses from those in class.
   

2. Choose videoconferencing tools that work for everyone. No matter if your school decides to use Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Zoom or another type of software, the most important factor to consider is how it will meet the needs of your educators and students. Not only is this essential for at-home or hybrid learning but recorded lessons can help those students with individualized learning plans or allow absent students to catch up on missed work. The software must be flexible so all parties can use it easily.
   

3. Take advantage of new cart-based technologies. Even before the pandemic, cart-based technologies helped educators easily move devices from classroom to classroom and makeshift lecture halls, like libraries and gyms. Now, they also make it easy to sanitize devices between uses. Companies like Anywhere Cart Classroom Solutions offer cabinets that both charge and sanitize. Investing in a dual-purpose cart could save you money in the long run.
   

4. Consider cloud migration. Cloud migration is the process of moving data and applications to a cloud computing environment. The migration saves valuable hard drive space but also lets educators collaborate from wherever. The argument for cloud migration could include savings by fusing cloud-based applications, like Google Apps for Education, with compatible programs.
   

5. Boost your school’s security. Thanks to the American Rescue Plan, schools will have access to funding that will help keep students and staff safe. Funds can be used to modify spaces and technology, like investing in touchless doors, screening equipment, video surveillance and more. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has truly changed how K-12 learning looks now and likely in the future. Luckily EdTech is keeping up and devising better solutions for the future. Arey Jones partners with multiple EdTech providers and we can help you develop solutions that will work for your school.

Top Pinterest Finds to Help Your Students Avoid the Summer Slide

Once the last bell of the year rings, many students simply look forward to kicking back, having fun, and completely forgetting about school. But experts say it’s a bad idea to stop all learning because students could potentially lose some of what they’ve learned during school. The term “Summer Slide” has been coined to describe how students lose significant amounts of knowledge in math and reading over the summer. In fact, one study suggests third to fifth graders lose 20% of reading gains and 27% of math gains on average during summer break. Parents don’t have to sit back and allow this to happen. We’ve compiled some ideas from Pinterest on how to help kids read, write, discover and practice academics throughout the summer break.

Download a Review Packet

Set your students up to complete a review sheet every day. Pinterest shows a variety of review packet options, in all grades, that provide parents with fun ideas to reinforce fundamentals. Many of the packets contain pages upon pages of printable lessons, allowing parents to spread a little bit of learning throughout the summer break.

Stock Up on Learning Games

Is it still learning if it’s also fun? Yes! Games that integrate reading and math are a great way to keep students learning all summer. A quick Pinterest search brings up tons of options that parents can buy or make themselves. Create your own homemade games like word hunt scavenger-type games, matching games, and addition games. Or purchase an existing game, like Bingo, Zoom, or Spelligator.

Cook with Your Kids

Getting kids in the kitchen is an easy and satisfying way to teach and reinforce skills. Following a recipe teaches kids: reading, fractions and comprehension. Plus parents get to interact with kids one-on-one, providing a fun way to take a digital break. There are many Pinterest finds for kid-friendly recipes to try out this summer. As a bonus, your kids might just eat an extra vegetable or two.

Take a Virtual Field Trip

The world may be opening up, but organizations still recognize the value of virtual tours. Many museums still offer virtual tours so your kids can take a tour and discover new things, while you’re finishing up work or dinner. Google Arts & Culture lists world-renown museums from A to Z.

Let Kids Read Whatever They Want

Reading doesn’t have to be limited to the same books and texts kids read in school. It’s summer. Let kids read their favorite comic, magazine or schedule weekly visits to the library. Pinterest is full of ideas on how to get kids reading more this summer. For example, make reading a challenge, complete with a reward for winning.  No matter which method you choose, shoot for at least 20 minutes a day.

Preventing the summer slide isn’t just a repeat of remote learning. It only takes minutes a day to make sure your students won’t fall behind come fall.

At Home Learning: Best Tech for Grades K-12

In the last year especially, our society has learned of the fundamental importance of technology to education. Not only does the access to technological support literally expand the classroom, but it also does wonders to engage students in different ways.

When it comes to at-home learning, it’s crucial to that all devices and programs are age-appropriate. Whether it’s hybrid learning, completely remote, or supplementing education at home, selecting such devices and apps requires some specific considerations. 

Check out our guidelines for at-home tech that’s best suited for K-2 students.

Recommended Devices:

• HP Chromebook x360 14b is stylish and sleek, but durable. The magnetic docking station eliminates the chances of losing the stylus (perfect for little ones), and it has a versatile 360° screen. The touchscreen is easy and engaging, allowing for pinching, tapping, zooming, and swiping. 

• It’s hard to beat the intuitive nature of an iPad. The new iPad has tremendous capability and versatility in performance. Its easy-to-use home screen makes app selection effortless, and switching between programs is seamless, even for young kids. The new iPad has all of the old one’s capabilities at a surprisingly great price.

• Google’s Pixelbook Go a flexible, highly proficient device. It features a lightweight design with a textured bottom, which is perfect for little ones and drop-prevention. Its fast connection and high-resolution duo cam is an ideal must have for virtual learning. With 12 hours of battery, this small machine packs a big punch.

Educational Websites:

With all that exists on the Internet, sometimes it’s difficult to discern educational sites with entertainment. These sites are recommended by both parents and educators.

• Starfall is a site designed for pre-K through third grade, and is focused on phonics and aims to support reading skills.

• Fuel the Brain is perfect for age-appropriate and educational games. Its activities feature all subject areas.

• XtraMath is a great site for improving mathematical computation skills.

• Stories are a wonderful way to learn, and they provide a creative outlet for applying knowledge. Storybird is perfect for curious and eager second graders who want to create and share their own imaginations; with this program, they can produce a story and even “publish” it in the library. 

• ABCMouse is a fun and functional site designed for ages 2-8. Make math, reading, science, and art interesting and engaging with over 10,000 activities. The program creates a step-by-step learning plan designed for each student.

K-2 learners are inquisitive and imaginative, and they need their technology to reflect their interests and capture (and keep!) their attention. These devices and websites are age-appropriate and created to keep young brains engaged and learning. 

Protect Your Kids’ Data With These Six Tips

Being a 21st century kid comes with some challenges; among them is having to be cautious about one’s personal information on the Internet. Through smart phones, tablets, computers, and games, children amass a large amount of data. According to Wired, 92% of the children in the United States will have a digital footprint before they turn two years old. The ramifications of this only increase in importance as children grow up and use technology more frequently and more independently. Understanding the importance of data security is especially crucial, as children have spent more time on tech devices in this last year.

Fortunately, there are several safeguards that parents can employ (along with their kids) to help protect their safety and security online.

Be involved in new applications. 

For young children, especially, the thrill of using a fun new app or device surpasses any concern (or knowledge) of risks. Discuss with them the importance of privacy; that passwords shouldn’t be shared with anyone other than a parent or teacher, and that an authority figure needs to approve an application before it’s purchased or downloaded. Make having the parent approve the application part of the routine.

Check privacy settings. 

After a new app’s initial set up, go back and make sure you’ve handled the privacy settings. Disable location sharing and the application’s request to post on other social media platforms. For apps that include messaging ability, make sure to choose “friends only” to filter users who are allowed to send your child messages. These steps take a just few minutes, but are hugely beneficial.

Disable location sharing.

This one has can lead to serious repercussions, but it’s often overlooked when setting up a profile. Be thorough with reviewing the location settings on your kids’ devices and apps. Likewise, set expectations for photo sharing as it relates to location; it’s not prudent to publicly broadcast being out of town, for example, due to home security reasons. Young people need guidance to make prudent choices.

Pay attention to fine print. 

Terms and conditions are tedious, but they’re key to understanding what you’re agreeing to. Read the T&C together with your kids, modeling meticulously good online habits. This way, if something appears that you don’t feel comfortable with, you can cancel the download without unintended consequences.

Utilize parental blocks.

Parental blocking technology is designed primarily to protect children from illicit material and unknown Internet dangers. It’s important to keep your own information safe as to not accidentally provide your kids with administrator access. While there is no replacement for vigilant supervision from real parents, a parental block can help provide another layer of protection.

Establish a VPN network.

If you’re interested in greater Internet anonymity, you may want to consider a Virtual Private Network. There are two primary benefits to using a VPN. The first is that all of your family’s data will travel through an encrypted virtual tunnel, making you less susceptible to cyber attacks. The second benefit is that this tunnel also hides your IP address (the online equivalent of a postal address). This provides you with more anonymity and less vulnerability.

Young people are spending more time with technology, both for academic purposes and for entertainment. In this digital age, it’s incredibly important to closely manage kids’ data online. These precautions will help you and your children enjoy the use of your devices while knowing you’re protected.

How to Keep Kids Excited About Reading During a Pandemic

It’s been nearly a year since COVID turned our world upside down, changing the structure of school and our social lives. Since then, parents and teachers everywhere have been worn thin by the new expectations and ever evolving forums. What’s remained unchanged is our mutual commitment to both students’ safety and success.

In the educational landscape, reading is fundamental. It connects all disciplines, growing a child’s fluency and comprehension. That’s why it’s more important than ever to nurture children’s love of learning, even during unpredictable times.

Take a look at these four tips for keeping reading an educational priority.

Check in with your local library.

Depending on your location and city’s current status, your library may be open. Seasonally, most libraries offer reading challenges- complete with fun rewards and book recommendations. Sometimes, a little extra incentive is what kids need to keep them encouraged. Many libraries across the country are offering curbside pickup for easy exposure-less experiences. Check out your library’s website to see how they’re handling the current challenges.

Take turns reading aloud.

Reading fluency is an important skill that requires practice. With your child, take turns reading aloud. This can take many forms: a page in a book, a list from a recipe, or even directions from a new board game. Parents can begin a bedtime tradition of reading to their children from an engaging chapter book. For teachers, using read aloud excerpts is an effective way to expose students to nonfiction and more complex passages. 

Let students make recommendations.

Like everyone, kids love to share their perspectives. Allow them to assume the role of Book Reviewer for their peers. If you’re still teaching in your classroom, designate a visible place where students can display their book reviews, or carve out a spot on Google Classroom specifically for this purpose. Students will feel like their opinions are heard, and their reviews can help other kids choose a book that is well rated and loved by friends.

Change the format. 

Sometimes, a change in medium can pique kids’ interest enough to keep reading. There are countless tech toys that are both fun and educational: The Touch and Teach Word Book and LeapStart 3D Learning System are two great choices or younger children. Kindles ebooks work well to provide efficiency, choices, and fun for older children. For kids of all ages, audiobooks provide a different way to enjoy texts.

Pandemic life has altered the way we live, and education is no exception. Educators and parents know that reading is absolutely fundamental to young people’s development. Luckily, with the help of creative ideas and technology, we can keep kids excited about reading through these uncertain times.

Four Tips for Storing Tech Hardware in the Classroom

Modern teaching has been revolutionized by the use of electronic devices. And if you’re a teacher nowadays, it’s likely that you have quite the collection of tech gadgets in your classroom. They’re undeniably useful when it comes to instruction, but undoubtedly require some planning regarding their use and associated routines.

One of the challenges of classroom tech use is deciding how and where to store your varied devices. Get some guidance and ideas with these four helpful tips.

Sort and de-clutter.

It’s wise to begin any organizational process by sifting through everything you have. Use this time to decide what you want to keep, and to identify items that are not useful and/or are damaged. For broken items, make a plan for how to dispose of them responsibly.

Get creative with storage.

For Chromebooks, the best way to store them is with a mobile cart that doubles as a charging station. Label each slot with a number (as well as each device) to make sure that all are accounted for as you collect them from students. For other, smaller devices and accessories, there are lots of innovative ways that teachers have chosen to keep them neat and orderly. Letter trays or wire dish racks make for inexpensive and easy structures to house tablets. Small accessories, such as ear buds, can be stored in clear, plastic containers (like bead organizers) for easy recognition. Some teachers store larger earphones and cords in plastic calculator storage pockets, which hang on walls.

Location matters.

Classroom technology is valuable, and as such, needs to be treated with care. When selecting where your devices will be spending the majority of their time, be mindful of the environment. Choose a spot for the tech items where they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight, unnecessary heat, or any chance of getting wet.

Keep an Inventory.

All teachers know that classrooms can quickly descend into chaos. Even though an instructor's time is short and precious, it is always prudent to use some of it to stay organized. Use a digital spreadsheet for easy access, editing, and sharing with other instructors.

How do you store your tech hardware in the classroom? Share your expertise in the comments!

Microsoft 365: Highlighting Office’s Best Features

The beginning of another year means that it’s out with the old and in with the new. Among our many hopes for 2021 is embracing change: including new technological innovation. In honor of the upcoming 12 months of the year (and in an effort to highlight the best features of the new Office), we’re counting up our 12 best tips for Microsoft 365.

1. Restore older versions of the document. 365 automatically saves previous versions so that you can compare your current document to your older work. When using PowerPoint, the restore option even allows for users to see editing history, which can help maximize collaborative efforts.
   
   

2. Smart Lookup is the game-changing feature that every teacher needs. Without opening a web browser and searching, you can fact check and confirm a definition. After highlighting the word or phrase, right click and select “Smart Lookup”.  Bing Features will pull up relevant links without needing to exit the document.
   
   

3. Remember that happy and helpful little paperclip, Clippy? He’s had a major upgrade. In Microsoft 365, there’s a ribbon at the top of the screen that reads, “Tell Me”. Clicking here will connect you with an intelligent services feature that can provide feedback and help.
   
   

4. Now you can collaborate online and watch updates occur in real time with co-authoring. It makes working together efficient and easy. Access necessary items at all times by using your OneNote notebook and moving it from your desktop to your own cloud folder. From here, you’ll be able to access the document from different devices, as well as share it.
   
   

5. Make the most of your time by managing your calendar with Outlook. Block unavailable “you time”, and set recurring commitments for regularly scheduled events.
   
   

6. An often-dreaded electronic task- converting a file into a PDF- is now made simple. Use the Save as PDF feature on your document, presentation, or spreadsheet.
   
   

7. Microsoft Teams in app integrations in 365 let you effortlessly chat with coworkers. You can also share screens and have a video or audio conversation. Perfect for small staff meetings, which need to be remote.Never again will you send an email without the needed attachment!
   
   

8. Keep things efficient by inserting links into stored files instead of having to send the whole file. First, upload your document to 365’s cloud storage. Compose an email with outlook, and then insert the link to the file on your cloud.
   
   

9. Turn your mouse into a laser pointer for PowerPoint presentations by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+P.
   
   

10. Make your data visual and interactive with Power Map in Excel. Power BI helps turn excel data into a visual meant for analysis. Power Map also includes three different data filters.
    
    

11. No Internet? No problem. OneDrive storage is synched to your device, so you can work while offline. When you reconnect to the Internet, the new version will be uploaded automatically.
    
    

12. Nothing sounds more magical than an inbox that helps to de-clutter itself. The Clutter feature uses your mailbox rules to automatically organize high-priority messages, and move the unimportant things to a clutter folder for later viewing.

So there you have it: a subscription to Microsoft 365 includes the latest office apps, and at least 12 superbly fun features.

Six Steps to Follow for Digital Cleanup

Spooky season is upon us, and to teachers and admin everywhere, there’s nothing scarier than clutter. As far as stressful messes go, classroom clutter takes the cake: disheveled books, piles of unsorted papers, and stale dry erase markers littered all over the place. 

However, there’s another type of clutter that is arguably more important (and therefore, more disruptive to teachers), and that is digital debris. Although less noticeable to others, digital messes take up space, both electronic and mental.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your electronic messes, don’t be afraid! Just follow these six, must-do steps for digital cleaning.

1. Get your email in good shape. Unless you’re someone who automatically sorts email as soon as it arrives (a tough, but good habit), you’re probably due for an email inbox overhaul. This is a good time to trash useless mail, and while you’re at it, unsubscribe from some pesky auto-mailings. Create specified folders (ex. parent communication, observations, extra-curricular activities) to stay organized.
   

2. Be smart about storage. For smart phones specifically, loading your device with unused apps, dormant text messages, and too many pictures slows the efficiency of the machine (and uses precious battery power). This is especially important if you’re using teacher apps like Plickers or Class Dojo on your personal device. Rid your phone of excess “weight” by deleting apps you no longer use, comb through your photo albums, and delete old text messages.
   

3. Cleanup your Google Classroom. Keep your GC nice and tidy by archiving old classes and deleting old class calendars. Consider creating a folder specifically to store exemplary work for students’ future reference. Remember to not delete the Classroom folder; it’s necessary and difficult to recover.
   

4. Make your desktop presentable. If you’re too embarrassed to screen share your desktop with the class, then it’s time for some organizational overhaul. Sort documents, pictures, and other files into existing folders, or create new ones. While you’re at it, sift through old folders, trashing documents that are no longer relevant.
   

5. Give your devices a dusting. Literally. Dust and particles can damage the efficiency of your machine over time. To clean it, wipe the exterior and screen with a dry, microfiber cloth. Gently turn over the keyboard to allow the debris to fall. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, use compressed air to ensure that it’s as clean as new and running smoothly.
   

6. Backup the important stuff. It’s an easy task to forget, but one that will serve you well in the future: offload pictures, videos, and important files to a safer location. Dropbox and Google Drive provide perfect locations to safely store files, but you can also opt to use an external hard drive.

Implementing these steps will give you (and your devices) renewed energy and a fresh outlook.

Back to School Icebreakers for 2020

Whether in person, online, or a hybrid model, school is sure to look different this year. For teachers and for students, it’s crucial that routines and expectations remain as normal as possible. Some of that normalcy includes the importance of back-to-school rituals; among them is building rapport between students and teachers. Icebreakers are fun games and activities that are intended to create a comfortable environment for everyone.

Regardless of the educational model, there are plenty of creative ways to engage and get to know your students.

In-Person:

The Number Game: In a small group, or as a whole class, sit in a large circle. The goal is the count to ten aloud, and that each number is spoken by a different student. Anyone is able to call out a number, but if more than one person speaks at the same time, the game starts over. Repeat as many times as is necessary to reach 10, and then try for a larger number.

“What Am I?” Game: Provide students with sticky notes with names of every day items, famous people, books, or movies. They’ll team up with a partner, and then the partner will give clues about their mystery item. If the guesser correctly identifies the object, they get a point. Take turns with different notes.

Letter to Yourself: Have students compose a letter to their future selves. Prompt them to talk about their interests, strengths, and hopes for the year. Keep the letters in a special location and give them back on the last day of school.

Virtual:

Show and Tell 2.0: Get creative with video conferencing! Students can be instructed to share their favorite object in their room, give a room tour, or even introduce a pet to their classmates. 

Desert Island Share-Out: Project a picture of a desert island, and then ask students to identify (and share) two items that they would want to bring. The items can be for survival, or even just for fun. Either way, this is a entertaining and creative way to get to know students.

Head and Shoulders: For this game, all students should be visible on individual screens. Prepare trivia questions beforehand (ones that have a clear yes or no answer). For “yes”, have students put their hands on their heads, and for “no”, students will place hands on shoulders. Observe the movement and enjoy the laughter that will ensue!

In-Person or Virtual:

Names Word Search: Help kids learn each other’s names with this non-intimidating activity. Using Puzzlemaker, create a custom word search filled with names of classmates.

About Me Backpack: Using this awesome resource from Teachers Pay Teachers, have students fill a “backpack” with small items that best represent themselves. Have them take turns sharing their objects in small groups, partners, or with the whole class.

For educators or students looking to upgrade their technology this year, HP has released the Chromebook 11A G8 EE. Built specifically for educational purposes, the G8 is durable, convenient, and affordable. With its spill-resistant keyboard and battery life of over 13 hours, this machine is perfect for the demands of the school year, no matter the circumstances.

The Ten Best Apps for Education

Among the challenges of the 2020-2021 academic school year will undoubtedly be the need for teachers to implement creative forms of instruction. Luckily, the technological world is brimming with interesting and effective resources. Below are ten of the best, most effective educational apps; there’s something for every age and every subject.

• Google Classroom is one element of Google’s G Suite for Education. It provides teachers with an easy to use and very well organized forum, and students enjoy the ability to easily view and access assignments and other resources. Discussion forums and teacher-student messages provides an opportunity for collaboration or extra help.
  

• Let little ones learn through play with Kids Academy app. The app, created by experts in early education, is aimed at children pre-K to third grade. The features include handpicked interactive activities, plenty of entertaining game-like lessons, and weekly performance reports.
  

• Khan Academy is a robust, free, personalized learning resource for students between Grades 3-12. The engaging instructional videos and practice exercises allows students to study at their own pace. In addition to test preparation (such as SAT, Praxis, and even the LSAT), subjects include math, science, computing, history, and art history.
  

• Designed to strengthen communication and connection, Edmodo’s learning app helps teachers reach their students while achieving better educational outcomes. Parents are also able to create accounts, giving them the opportunity to check on their child’s assignments, grades, and calendars.  
  

• The preschool curriculum by ABCmouse focuses on skills in Reading, Math, and a Social Studies and Science combination called World Around Us. Each game or interactive activity is intended to strengthen knowledge and understanding of basics, such as sounds, numbers, shapes, and alphabet. Parents and kids love the fun that ABCmouse has to offer.
  

• ShowMe Interactive Whiteboard is perfect for teachers who may be instructing remotely or with a hybrid model in this upcoming school year. It allows teachers (and students) to create presentations and share them- either individually or to an audience. In the presentation, the user can record helpful voiceover, making it simple for students to follow along.
  

• Nearpod lets teachers design interactive lesson plans, presentations, and assessments. The lessons themselves are composed of slides, which the teacher creates; these can include text, video, websites, polls, and other features. This gives students the option of using their own devices on their own time, or teachers can lead a synchronized session in real time. This app is ideal for middle or high school students.
  

• Quizlet offers 21st century students a modern way to study. Choose an existing Quizlet, or you can create your own to perfectly fit the content. Kids can compete for high scores and play study games. It’s a great way to encourage collaboration at a distance.
  

• Introduce your students to another world with NASA App. They’ll navigate the universe through photos, videos, live feeds, and unlimited text information. Whether the topic is Mars, the International Space Station, or Black Holes, young astronomers are sure to find what they’re looking for.
  

• Duolingo is a highly rated English language app for beginners. It’s friendly and gamified, giving users a fun and non-intimidating setting for learning a new language. The lessons are twenty minutes long, and are created around a topic and seven related vocabulary words.

Which apps do you love to use with your students? Leave us a comment below.

Four Ways to Keep Kids Academically Motivated During the Summer

Summer Slide- the term used to describe students losing academic growth- is a concern shared by parents and teachers. It’s unfortunately not uncommon for students to lose up to 25% of their school-year gains over the course of the summer break. Especially after the challenging spring semester, it’s especially crucial for students to be adequately prepared for their next grade level.

Luckily, there are abundant resources at our fingertips. Here are some ideas designed to keep young minds learning. 

Read. Research shows that independent reading for 20 minutes a day is enough to maintain comprehension and decoding skills. At this rate, elementary students should complete about six books during summer break. 

• Choosing age appropriate books- those which are not too easy or too hard- is the sometimes a challenge. To do so, seek recommendations from friends, your local librarian (most likely, digitally), or your child’s teacher. 
  

• GetEpic is a vast digital library for young students. Books are grouped by age, interests, language, and award winners. With over 40,000 titles available, there is something for everyone. The website offers a free 30 day trial to get started.
  

• Audio books are great for substituting “read aloud” titles: books that a teacher would read to the class, but that may be above students’ individual reading levels. Listen to a book during long car rides, or make cuddling up on the couch an evening tradition for the family. 

Write. Typically, kids aren’t excited about recreational writing, which is just the reason to get creative. 

• Gift your child with a fun summer journal to document the day’s activities and thoughts. Consider using a daily question to prompt a few sentences.
  

• Put a positive spin on social distancing by helping your kids discover letter writing. Arrange with a friend or family member to become a pen pal. Your child will continue to practice writing, and they’ll love getting mail.

Discover. Depending on your location and circumstances, travel may be limited this summer. Visiting different areas is a great way to keep brains occupied, and the good news is- you can still go (from the safety of your living room).

• Countless destinations are offering free, virtual tours. Choose a place such as Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park, the British Museum, or the San Diego Zoo. After the tour, talk to your kids about what they saw; color a handmade postcard, or find a corresponding book to read.

Practice. Many academic skills are already there, but they need to be practiced in order to stay retained.

• The Homer app, created for kids ages 2-8, offers personalized learning related to reading skills and success. They offer a free 30-day trial, and the monthly or yearly subscriptions. The app is well loved by kids, is easy to use, and has been featured in several renowned publications.
  

• Put a summer spin on any simple concept by adding chalk. Whether your child is practicing lower case letters or solving a long division problem, colorful chalk and some sunshine makes it fun and different.
  

• Bring measurements and math to life by baking a recipe together. It doesn’t feel like homework, and there’s a delicious payoff. 

When it comes to maintaining academic skills, consistency is key. These tips will help you find some creative ways to keep your young ones learning.

The Next Crop of Chromebooks

Chromebooks are the go-to edtech tool for classrooms across the country. They are durable, rugged, ultra-portable, easy-to-use, have a long-life battery and, most importantly, affordable. Many Chromebook options land in the $200 to $300 price range with the next performance level up costingabout $500 to $600. 

With so many new options, school administrators should easily be able to find one to meet their students’ needs and budget just in time for fall semester. 

Dell Education Chromebook  

Dell’s Chromebooks 3000 series is dedicated to education by being designed to endure the entire school day. It features tamper- and spill-resistant keyboards and ports that are covered and secured with reinforced brackets so students can connect and disconnect over-and-over. The New Chromebook 3100 features an 11-inch screen and up to 14 hours of battery life and a low price of $249. The 3100 also comes in the 2-in-1 option for a bump in the price tag. The New Chromebook 3400 is a 14-inch laptop that offers an optional, expansive full HD display that boots up in less than 10 seconds. It starts at $329.  

HP Chromebook x2 

While at the top of Chromebook’s price range ($599), the HP Chromebook x2 is the first Chrome Detachable PC and comes with high-performance specs; it is HP’s most powerful Chromebook yet. It features a long-lasting, 12-hour battery life and dual-core Intel M3 processor. It features front and rear facing cameras, audio by B&O Play and the durable Corning Gorilla Glass display. 

Lenovo Chromebook 500e (2nd Gen) 

Lenovo offers several Chromebooks for classroom use, including the 500e, the brand’s top model. It blends on-the-go technology with powerful processing and a premium classroom experience. With a 360-degree hinge, it can be used in four ways and includes a digital pen for on-screen writing and notetaking. It also features two HD cameras and a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protective screen that resists chips and scratches. Depending on features, it costs anywhere from $279 to $329. 

Samsung Chromebook 2 & 3 

Samsung’s Chromebooks for education offer options in size and affordability. The Chromebook 3 features an 11.6-inch screen starts at $199. It offers schools a way to embrace 1:1 digital learning with a limited budget. This economical solution still delivers a rugged design, built-in education software and up to 11 hours of battery life. The Chromebook 2 offers a bigger screen, faster performance and a full HD 1080 display for $399. The increased lightning-fast performance reduces battery life to 8.5 hours. 

Questions about Chromebook? We can answer them. Contact us today. 

The Best Tech for Summer

The school year’s end is an exhausting but rewarding time. Both educators and students experience the mixed feelings that accompany the conclusion of their grade levels and classes. Due to the unprecedented challenges caused by COVID-19, the end of this school year is particularly bittersweet.

Still, the summer season is always a welcome occasion for rest and renewal. In addition to keeping busy with physical activities and lots of outdoor adventures, it’s equally important for students and teachers alike to continue to exercise their brains. The following tech tools aim to blend playing and learning.

• In the world of convenient devices, HP’s Probook x 360 11 is top notch. This versatile machine is perfect for writing, drawing, reading, and creating. The durability provided by the Probook makes it practical and user friendly, and its spill resistance makes it Popsicle friendly.
  

• The Windows 10 operating system has always been fast and reliable and it also boasts new features that are fun and unique. With just the touch of a few keys, you can talk instead of type. Finding photos is quick and easy with automatic added tabs. Maximize your time by snapping apps side by side.
  

• Microsoft OneNote is ideal for the fast-paced brain of a teacher, and perfect for when you’re inspired with a great lesson idea. Spend a few August afternoons jotting down some lesson plan ideas and getting organized for the coming year. OneNote’s multi-user collaboration allows for sharing ideas with colleagues.
  

• With most summer vacations being put on hold, take an exploratory yet educational adventure with Google Expeditions. Create one to fit the needs of your students, or take an exciting tour created by one of the world’s most well known institutions. 
  

• Keep your mind sharp while having a great time! Geoguessr is an enjoyable way to blend the lines between work and play. The game places you in an unknown location. Using Google Street view, the player will begin to navigate their way home with the help of logic, clues, and the world of technological tools.

What tech tools do you love for summer? Drop your suggestions in the comments!

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Digital Resources for Learning At Home

The novel coronavirus is forcing people all over the world to change the norms of their every day lives. One of those norms is traditional in-school learning. Extended spring breaks that turned into indefinite closure periods have transformed most of the country’s schools into online forums. 

Parents and teachers are going to be tasked with the continuation of education in the home. Even for tech-savvy educators who are well versed in digitized tools are going to face challenges in the coming weeks. During this unpredictable time, many organizations and websites are offering free educational resources. These online opportunities allow learners the ability to continue to explore the world (and expand their minds) from the comfort of home. 

• Scholastic’s Learn at Home is providing 20 days worth of active educational material. It includes cross-curricular journeys to keep students engaged.  

• Students can embark on free, virtual field trips though Freedom Homeschooling. From Buckingham Palace to the San Diego Zoo to Mars, there is a relevant and interesting location for almost any unit. 

• Explore the Louvre, Sistine Chapel, and Guggenheim museum while remaining cozy on the couch. The Washington Post thoughtfully curated a list of historic sites that are offering virtual tours.  

• Tours of other iconic museums are available through with Travel + Leisure’s online offering. Peruse Van Gogh’s work up close at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam or “stroll” through the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City. 

• For as long as schools are closed, Audible is providing free story listening. The collection of audiobooks is available to stream on desktops, laptops, phones, or tablets. 

• Over 3,000 e-book titles are available to borrow through the New York Public Library. From Winnie the Pooh to Atlas Shrugged, there’s something for every age.  

School closures are difficult for all. These resources will help combat loneliness by providing a lens into the wonders of the world.

Six Key Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Data

The downside to being a 21st century kid is obtaining an online presence long before you’re able to make fully informed decisions. Through smart phones, tablets, computers, and games, children amass a large amount of data. According to Wired, 92% of the children in the United States will have a digital footprint before they turn two years old. The ramifications of this only increase in importance as children grow up and use technology more frequently and more independently. 

When people consider the consequences of young people and the Internet, their essential concern is social media. Their fears focus on the idea that short-term pictures can cause long-term problems. Sound social media decisions are undoubtedly important, but they aren’t the sole worry of online privacy violations. When security breaches occur, the hackers are mining for both personal and consumer information.  

Fortunately, there are several safeguards that parents can employ (along with their kids) to help protect their safety and security online. 

Start the conversation.  

For young children, especially, the thrill of using a fun new app or device surpasses any concern (or knowledge) of risks. Discuss with them the importance of privacy; that passwords shouldn’t be shared with anyone other than a parent or teacher, and that an authority figure needs to approve an application before it’s purchased or downloaded. 

Check privacy settings.  

After a new app’s initial set up, go back and make sure you’ve handled the privacy settings. Disable location sharing and the application’s request to post on other social media platforms. For apps that include messaging ability, make sure to choose “friends only” to filter users who are allowed to send your child messages.  

Disable location sharing. 

This one has can lead to serious repercussions, but it’s often overlooked when setting up a profile. Be thorough with reviewing the location settings on your kids’ devices and apps. Likewise, set expectations for photo sharing as it relates to location; it’s not prudent to publicly broadcast a vacation, for example, due to home security reasons. Young people need guidance to make prudent choices. 

Read the fine print.  

Terms and conditions are tedious, but they’re key to understanding what you’re agreeing to. Read the T&C together with your kids, modeling meticulously good online habits. This way, if something appears that you don’t feel comfortable with, you can cancel the download without unintended consequences. 

Use parental blocks. 

Parental blocking technology is designed primarily to protect children from illicit material and unknown Internet dangers. It’s important to keep your own information safe as to not accidentally provide your kids with administrator access. While there is no replacement for vigilant supervision from real parents, a parental block can help provide another layer of protection. 

Establish a VPN. 

If you’re interested in greater Internet anonymity, you may want to consider a Virtual Private Network. There are two primary benefits to using a VPN. The first is that all of your family’s data will travel through an encrypted virtual tunnel, making you less susceptible to cyber attacks. The second benefit is that this tunnel also hides your IP address (the online equivalent of a postal address). This provides you with more anonymity and less vulnerability. 

The Internet provides countless advantages. But with more interconnectedness and information sharing, the importance of privacy intensifies. These precautions will help you and your children enjoy the use of your devices while knowing you’re protected.  

How to Get Kids Excited About Reading

Among the many healthy habits that parents hope to instill within their children is a life-long love of reading. In addition to the emotional and recreational benefits of reading, the academic advantages are innumerable. While most parents are in agreement about its importance, many parents and teachers struggle to motivate their reluctant readers.  

Luckily, there are plenty of creative strategies that adults can employ to help cultivate kids’ love of literacy. Below are five ideas about how to get children excited about reading. 

For parents: 

1. Start them young.  Studies show that exposure to a vast spoken vocabulary in infancy helps young ones with language development.  While it may feel silly at first, reading books to brand new babies is important; they are absorbing not just words, but the sound and cadence of your voice. The good news is that babies aren’t picky, so you can read aloud whatever you want.  
   
   

2. Set an example. Children will emulate what they see, so if you want to raise a reader, be a reader. When parents open up the newspaper or a new library book, they send cues to their kids that reading is an important use of time. Create a Saturday morning family routine where everyone spends 30 minutes reading silently in the comfort of the living room; carving out special time shows that reading is something to be prioritized. 
   
   

3. Change the format. Sometimes, a change in medium can pique kids’ interest enough to keep reading. There are countless tech toys that are both fun and educational: The Touch and Teach Word Book and LeapStart 3D Learning System are two great choices or younger children. Kindles ebooks work well to provide efficiency, choices, and fun for older children. For kids of all ages, audiobooks provide a different way to enjoy stories. 

For teachers: 

1.  Credit their opinions. Like everyone, kids love to share their perspectives. Allow them to assume the role of Book Reviewer for their peers. Designate a visible place in the classroom where students can display their book reviews, or carve out a spot on Google Classroom specifically for this purpose. Students will feel like their opinions are heard, and their reviews can help other kids choose a book that is well rated and loved by friends. 
   
   

2. Start a tradition. Create a classroom culture that values books and celebrates their value. One way to do this is to start a tradition based on the excitement brought by a book. After finishing a book as a class, think about hosting a movie event; spend time afterwards comparing and contrasting the upsides to the book and movie versions of the same story. Another fun tradition is a “read in”. Designate an afternoon for silent reading only; encourage students to bring in a cozy blanket and a book of their choice. Oftentimes, these simple, extra details work well for nurturing that extra bit of enthusiasm.

Motivating young readers, although sometimes challenging, is worth it. With a little creativity, parents and teachers can encourage a life-long love of reading. 

The Device to Upgrade in 2020

The beginning of a calendar year means that it’s time for out with the old and in with the new. In the educational and business worlds, the adage applies to the ongoing need to assess the efficacy of technologies. Although most quality devices are designed to last for several years, it’s still prudent to evaluate how well they are meeting the user’s needs. 

For teachers, middle-of-the-year technological changes (especially to their own device) can be difficult to integrate. When the year is in full swing, lesson planning and grading take precedence over navigating a new gadget. Because of this, it’s best to consider implementing the upgrades at the close of the school year. Summer will provide some time to become familiar with the upgraded technology, allowing for comfort and confidence in the new device just in time for school to begin.  

As you’re looking ahead and preparing for the upcoming year, take stock in the efficacy of your computer. If it’s not meeting the needs of yourself or your staff, here is the upgrade we recommend for 2020. 

The Elite Desk 705 is the latest and greatest desktop model from HP’s Z Lineup. Its lag-free performance allows for more productivity in shorter time. And just like teachers, the Elite Desk 705’s strength is multitasking. Windows 10 Pro3 with advanced security, collaboration, and connectivity helps the user effortlessly power through the day. 

With students’ interests in mind, its multifaceted capabilities are designed to handle the best STEM software including SolidWorks, AutoDesk AutoCAD, and AutoDesk REVIT. And with the potential to expand to more bays and slots, it’s the perfect investment that will meet the needs of the upcoming decade. 

Discover more about the Elite Desk 705 and the entire Z by HP Lineup here. 

Best of 2019: This Year’s Favorite Blogs

At the end of the year, it is said (or sung) that old acquaintance should be forgot. But as we prepare to close out the calendar and delve into a new one, we’re focused on what should be remembered from 2019: lessons learned, skills acquired, and relationships built.  

Our end-of-year reflections also include the informational impacts made from the year’s blog posts. Below is a collection of our favorite Arey Jones blogs from 2019. 

Most Popular Devices of 2018 topped the list of most popular blogs. Its comprehensive guide gave shoppers, educators, and administrators an inside look the latest and greatest in Chromebooks. The feature comparison between several different brands helped readers discern which model would best fit their needs. 

Intended for teachers, It’s Time to Redesign Your Learning Spaces, explained how EdTech is challenging the norm of classroom design. The blog also offered helpful and practical suggestions for changing up classroom layout in an effort to increase collaboration and efficacy.  

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with technological clutter. That’s why Clean Out Your Electronic Files Like a Pro was a hit with readers. This piece provided detailed instruction aimed at helping computer-users simplify and organize their documents.  

In the spirit of March Madness, The Biggest Players in Tech highlighted two major tech companies and their respective, successful products. Looks like a win-win to us! 

The struggle to stay organized is one that all educators bear. Teaching Tips: How to Stay Organized All Year provided teachers with valuable advice and practical tools for effectively and efficiently completing workday duties (so that they didn’t become evening and weekend chores). 

So here you have it: Arey Jones’s favorite blogs of the year. What content would you like to see highlighted in our 2020 blogs? Comment below!