While classroom websites and blogs are not new, teachers in the Knox County Public Schools are taking a fresh new approach to using these web-based tools to involve students and parents.
In a regional math workshop held at the Knox County Board on September 20, trainer Tiffaney Lavoie shared with teachers how these frequently used tools can transform classrooms and increase parent involvement.
“I do feel teachers were very excited about the potential for Blogger and Edmodo as tools for extra practice, communication with parents, and differentiation with our mastery groups,” said Lavoie.
During the workshop teachers started creating their own blogs and Edmodo websites during the hands-on presentation. Edmodo, which is new to some teachers, is an online classroom environment that allows students to submit assignments electronically, similar to the BlackBoard system used by colleges and universities.
“As we revise our curriculum to reflect the new common standards and work to ensure that we are preparing next generation learners, online teaching tools are becoming a necessity instead of a luxary,” stated Frank Shelton, director of Public Relations and the district’s communication efforts.
Below are a few of the teacher blogs that are currently being developed:
Alan Bradshaw, Lynn Camp Elementary – 6th Grade Math
http://bradshaw6thgrade.blogspot.com
Tracy Saunders, Lynn Camp Elementary – Curriculum Coach
http://saunderslynncamp.blogspot.com
Melissa May, Lynn Camp Elementary – 4th Grade Math
http://may4thgrade.blogspot.com
Megan Carnes, Lay Elementary, 4th Grade Math
http://misscarnesclass.blogspot.com
Selina Dunaway, Knox County Middle, 7th Grade Math
http://dunawaysdiscussion.blogspot.com
Leeann Mills, Knox Central High School, 9th grade Pre-Algebra and Curriculum Coach
http://leeannmillsblogs.blogspot.com
Virgie Patterson, Dewitt Elemenatry, 3rd Grade
http://vpattersons3rdgrade.blogspot.com
Amy Shields, Knox Central High School, 9-12 Math
http://missshieldsmath.blogspot.com
Marci Messer, GR Hampton Elementary, 3rd Grade
http://messersmusings.blogspot.com
Dorothy Warren, GR Hampton Elementary, 2nd Grade Math
http://dorothywarren.blogspot.com/
Jason Cornett, Flat Lick Elementary, 4-6 Grade Math
http://flatlickmath.blogspot.com
Marti Partin, Central Elementary, 4th Grade Math & RTI
http://centralpanthers.blogspot.com