Growing Minds Project virtual training will be learning to utilize hydroponic gardening systems to integrate data collection & analyzing data with nutrition and biology concepts. We will collaborate and create computer science based integrated lesson plans to inspire inquiry and engagement with data in the classroom. This is a slightly condensed version of the face-to-face training; it is strongly recommended to attend the face-to-face training if possible.

Please note: This session is by invitation only.  You will need a registration key provided by Anna McCrumb to register for this session prior to December 1.

Give your students the tools to make their voices heard! This session spotlights the 21 Things 4 Students Creative Communications Thing, where learners explore how to transform ideas into powerful digital creations. Through interactive Quests, students experiment with slides, visuals, and multimedia tools to discover the art of communicating clearly, creatively, and responsibly.

Teachers and curriculum teams will see how this Thing:

• Introduces students to a variety of digital media tools for expressing complex ideas.
• Helps students compare the strengths and weaknesses of different communication platforms.
• Guides students in selecting the right tool for the right purpose.
• Teaches responsible use and remixing of digital resources.
• Encourages creativity through a design process that results in polished, student-created digital artifacts.

Whether built into core lessons or used as stand-alone Quests, Creative Communications equips students with essential skills for sharing their ideas in ways that captivate, inform, and inspire.

Growing Minds Project training will be learning to utilize hydroponic gardening systems to integrate data collection & analyzing data with nutrition and biology concepts. We will collaborate and create computer science based integrated lesson plans to inspire inquiry and engagement with data in the classroom.

Please note: This session is by invitation only.  You will need a registration key provided by Anna McCrumb to register for this session prior to December 1.

Discover how to use powerful digital tools to support diverse reading needs. This course explores tools that address phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, reading rate, and comprehension, with a special focus on supporting English learners and students with specific or special needs. Participants will examine common reading challenges, identify roadblocks through informal and observational assessments, and apply these insights to their own target audiences. By the end of the course, you will walk away with a practical toolkit of apps and strategies to strengthen reading skills across a wide range of learners.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Generative AI and its distinctions from traditional AI, along with the vital skill of prompt engineering to effectively engage with AI tools. Delve into the capabilities and limitations of popular AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and Perplexity. Connect with MI educators to learn how others think about and apply Generative AI in their work. The session promises a collaborative hands-on learning experience, empowering participants to apply newfound knowledge seamlessly. 

What if your students were in charge of making the internet a safer place? This session highlights the 21 Things 4 Students Cyber Smart Thing, where learners step into the role of video game safety experts. Through immersive Quests, students investigate online safety, digital etiquette, and the real impact of cyberbullying—all while “reporting back” to developers to ensure safe and fun experiences for players worldwide.

Teachers and curriculum teams will see how this Thing:

• Builds digital citizenship skills in a highly engaging, game-based context.
• Equips students with strategies for safe and responsible online behavior.
• Encourages empathy and awareness by addressing the effects of online bullying.
• Reinforces positive digital habits through interactive, scenario-based challenges.

Whether used in full or as stand-alone Quests to address classroom needs, Cyber Smart makes digital safety practical, meaningful, and fun for middle-level learners.

Are you looking to learn more about the possibilities and impacts of AI on education?  Join a Community of Practice cohort! Cohorts will run from August to December, and encourage participants to: engage with networking opportunities with peers, exploring practical strategies for AI-driven practices, participate in resource sharing to deepen understanding of effective Gen AI integration in practice and the classroom. This cohort will focus on Student Engagement for teachers, and will include integration of ethical and responsible use of AI. 

This five-session professional development series is designed to empower educators with actionable strategies to enhance student engagement in the classroom. The program focuses on building upon proven student engagement techniques while exploring the potential of AI tools to support and elevate these practices. Each session will provide collaborative discussions and opportunities to experiment with AI-supported strategies.

Optional SCECHs will be available for participants.