Hi Catherine - Thanks so much for your question. We learned a lot from our teachers in regards to creating "remote hands-on" technology enriched lessons. One thing we learned is how important coaching was to this process. Having the support of the one on one coach who understands the teacher, content, technology and learning environment was something teachers really utilized during COVID. Also, we found that our remote summer training with teachers and the grant use of TEAMS helped teachers prepare in advance for fall classes as they felt better prepared for use of educational technology in classrooms.

Hi Jaime- thanks for your question. We are mixed on the hybrid model (no pun intended). Teachers in most of our districts lacked supporting infrastructure for really implementing hybrid experiences at a high level. Many teachers who tried to use paired experiences (one at home, one at school) were not allowed to share computer screens between just 2 parties. (had to be whole class). This made it a little difficult for teachers, but they managed to create experiences for students using methods and platforms available to them. The findings were that engaging instruction works for both in class and at home students. The challenges is that infrastructure and PD support for teachers is needed to create engaging hybrid experiences for students.

Hi Saira - Thank you for your question. We have teachers fill out technology logs weekly, and many of our teachers report issues for both remote and hybrid students around lack of internet connectivity. Many districts have worked with internet providers to bring low/no cost internet to students, and yet it is not sufficient for online learning environments and programs. We have also had teachers report that in addition to training students in the technology, there was a real need to train parents and guardians in the technology. Some of our most successful teachers took time to create SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) or videos for the parents which showed them how the technology worked and what they would do with it for the lesson.

Wow, yes, training parents would be a crucial part of this entire endeavor, wouldn't it? A book is a powerful medium but it's next to useless if you can't read.

The internet connectivity part... that seems insurmountable for now, doesn't it. I'm certain in 10 years time it won't be but for now the infrastructure can't support low/no cost internet everywhere.

Saira - yes I agree. I wonder was this an issue in Seattle?

Hi Channa - the remote PD went well in all cases. It was a lot of work up front for the coaches to plan an engaging remote PD, but it really helped them understand how technology can be incorporated to build understanding. Teachers also learned a lot about using some of the new technology we were bringing in, things like Nearpod, peardeck, mentimeter, whiteboarding, and teachers brought these aspects back into the classroom for students.