Wednesday July 31st is the annual #NYCSchoolsTechSummit. I am excited to be presenting twice this year! In my first presentation, I will be sharing ways to use Microsoft accessibility features and tools to create inclusive content. In the second, we will be sharing ways we use tech tools and projects to engage and empower our awesomely autistic students. The problem with presenting though is that you don’t get to go to all the other awesome sessions. This year, I’m devastated to be missing presentations by Clay Smith on enhancing PBL with Google Forms script and by Eileen Lennon on creating an inclusive website, and so many more fascinating and informative presentations by #NYCSchoolsTech educators, including Sean Arnold, Cindy Wong, Laura Ogando and Kerry McGarvey. I will get to see the keynote speaker though Jason Green Cofounder and Co-CEO of LINC Learning Innovation Catalyst. This year includes a whole digital inclusion track which I’m really looking forward to.
My first #NYCSchoolsTechSummit was in 2016 on recommendation of the fabulous innovative educator, Lisa Nielsen who is one of the chief organizers. I hardly knew anyone who was going. Nervously, I collected my badge, Teq swag bag, and some coffee and ventured into the social media lounge. Here I was immediately greeted by Clemencia Acevedo, another awesome presenter. She gave me a scavenger hunt of Tweets to complete. A task! Naturally shy in new situations, having a task is a really helpful way for me to begin to find people, socialize and network. I had such fun that day and met so many wonderful people who have since become good friends. Everyone on the vendor floor was also super informative in answering specific tech questions I had about their products.
My eyes were also opened to some of the amazing projects going on in NYC schools utilizing tech to promote 21st Century skills. This is where I found my tribe. I recommend any educator attend the summit whether you consider yourself a techie or not. You are bound to find at least one resource or tool you can use to improve your instruction. There are still some registration spots available. Get thee to NYCSchoolsTechSummit Registration right now and claim yours. And don’t forget to come say ‘Hi! when you’re there.
If you teach a teacher... 