Wednesday, October 16, 2013
5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Conference Registration Fitness Center
Housing Check-In
Thursday–October 17, 2013
7:30 a.m. Conference Registration Lobby – Erickson Hall (EH)
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Exhibits Veranda (EH)
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Opening Keynote-Islesboro Ballroom – Erickson Hall
Al Miller: Theater in the Classroom: Creative Energy
(No meal at this session)
9:30-10:00 Coffee and Exhibits Erickson Center
All Day Individual Consultation
Drop by with your questions and individual issues:
• Apple Computer – Aroostook (Education Center)
• HP Help Desk—York (Education Center)
• Bea McGarvey (MCL) – Grindle Point Veranda (Erickson)
10:00 – 11:00 Best Practice Session A
Theater in the Classroom: Creative Energy – Al Miller, The Theater Project
Kids are creative. Long before adolescence, they are making pictures, telling and acting stories, dancing and making music. Where does all of this go when they get to middle school? It’s in them, so why not use it? This participatory workshop – no watching from the sidelines! – offers ways to tap that creative energy. It’s based on work I’ve been doing with teachers, students, seniors, people with disabilities and actors for the last forty years. DUCKTRAP (ERICKSON HALL)
Meet Apple’s iBooks Author – Hands On Workshop! (Double Session A & B) – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
Teachers have been making books with their students forever. Real publication brings out the best in all writers, and teachers know this. But what if those books could be digital? And what if those books could include all types of media, from text and still images to video, 3-dimensional objects, independent assessment, note-card generation, interactive images, and more? Apple’s new iBooks Author does all of this, allowing users to create highly interactive and engaging content that can be leveraged to help a teacher improve a lesson, or to help a student tell the story of their accomplishments. Information will be applicable across all grades and curriculum areas. Check out www.apple.com/ibooks-author/ to learn more, and then come to this session to see how easy it is build these books, and to view them on iPad. By having multiple Apple staff on hand, this session will offer an introduction to iBooks Author as well as a “workshop environment” where folks who have already begun work can either refine book, or begin the development of a new book. AROOSTOOK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Ancient Civilization Book Keystone Project – Michael Edgar & Tom Partridge, Saco Middle School
We love to see our students involved and excited about learning. We have developed a hands-on project in which students use their knowledge and creativity to have fun while showing understanding of content material! In this session you will be provided with all necessary materials and instructions necessary for your students to create a hard cover book that will highlight several of the important civilizations in history using the components of culture with a modern day connection. KNOX (EDUCATION CENTER)
Models of Courageous Citizenship: Connecting students to themes in social studies, language arts, science and other curriculum areas – Connie Carter & Robert Shetterly
Americans Who Tell the Truth (AWTT) portraits have been used in classrooms around the country to engage middle school students. Participants in this session will gain tools for connecting students to important themes in American history, social studies, language arts, science and the arts. As AWTT´s “Models of Courageous Citizenship” link to core standards, they teach students how to be leaders in their schools and communities and offer them skills that will empower them to participate in our nation´s democracy through direct engagement. HANCOCK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Meet OS X Mountain Lion – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
In this session, participants will learn about the newest features of the Mountain Lion operating system including customizing settings, accessibility, airplay, and more! WASHINGTON (EDUCATION CENTER)
Education for the 21st Century – Patricia Dunphy, MSAD #59
In this day and age of budget cuts, and world event happening faster than textbooks can be printed; how do we get students the information they need to know to be successful? A laptop, a projector, a pointer, and a Ladibug just might hold the answer. Come explore the ways information and learning can be shared in any classroom, and don’t b afraid to “click”! PENOBSCOT (EDUCATION CENTER)
Writing In Science – Courtney Belolan & Gretchen Feiss, Mt Ararat Middle School
Writing is front and center in the NextGen Science Standards, as well as the Common Core. At Mt. Ararat Middle School, science teachers have been working with the literacy leaders to figure out how to use what is already known about writing to support teachers, and students, in working to raise the level of writing rigor in their classrooms. Come talk with us about what we did, how we did it, and what we learned. SAGADAHOC (EDUCATION CENTER)
The 7 Things You Need to Know about Customized Learning – Mike Muir, Auburn School District
There are still lots of questions about Customized Learning. Teachers are excited by the promise, but horrified by anecdotes and tales and assumptions and rumors and scenarios. Which should you believe and which should you put out of your mind? What should every educator know about Customized Learning? FRANKLIN (EDUCATION CENTER)
Reading to Learn (RtL) in all Disciplines (Double Session A & B) – Kevin Perks, WestEd Featured Presenter
With the advent of the Common Core State Standards and the increase in reading standards for teachers in all disciplines, may educators are wondering how to best support students’ reading development. This workshop will describe a process for reading to learn that all teachers can use to support classroom literacy in a consistent and effective manner. Participants will become familiar with the process of Reading to Learn and how it can be used to develop objective-driven text-based lessons. The workshop will also explore strategies for implementing the process of Reading to Learn school- and district-wide. CAFE (EDUCATION CENTER)
HP and Windows Media: Using Digital Media as a Tool in Learning (DOUBLE SESSION A & B) – HP Professional Development Trainers
Digital tools allow us to take the age-old practice of storytelling and engage our students with text, narration, images, and music. Through the use of many free tools, including Live Movie Maker, Autocollage, Photostory, and Photosynth, we will explore ways in which students and teachers are effectively integrating digital storytelling into their learning environment to help students with creativity, communication, and collaboration skills. Learn how these digital tools will enhance content creation for your students, engage students in sharing their own voice and enlist tools to support flipped learning in the classroom. CUMBERLAND (EDUCATION CENTER)
11:15 – 12:15 p.m. Best Practice Sessions B Education Center & Erickson
Who’s the Expert Now? – Mary Hebert & Students, Middle School of the Kennebunks
What do autism, bullying, and scoliosis all have in common? These are some of the self-selected topics students have investigated for their “I-Search Project.” This project is an ideal way to foster these Common Core Habits of Mind: curiosity, creativity, engagement and persistence. In this session Alec, Madeline, Chloe, and Merredith will share their research and their personal stories. DUCKTRAP (ERICKSON HALL)
Meet Apple’s iBooks Author – Hands On Workshop! (Double Session A & B) – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
Part II – Continued from Best Practice Session A AROOSTOOK (EDUCATION CENTER)
T3 (Terrific Teaming Tips) – Cristy Beaupre & Robin Stinson, Saco Middle School
Have some great ideas for organizing the many tasks of being on a middle school team? Interested in learning some new tricks? This is the session for you! Our four-teacher team has been together for 12 years. We have ideas on locker schedules, open house; step up day, birthday recognition, homework websites/hotlines, student organization, parent conferences and more! Come prepared to share any tips you have… we are lifelong learners! KNOX (EDUCATION CENTER)
School of Roots: Why it Works (Aquaponics) – Ann Boover; Alex Brasili, Herring Gut School & George Masterson, St. George School
For twelve years Herring Gut Learning Center has worked in collaboration with the RSU 13 Alternate Education Program at the St. George School serving middle school students. Jim Masterson, the lead teacher at St. George School and teachers at HGLC work in a project-based learning environment teaching aquaponics. The students, most who have struggled in the traditional school setting, strengthen academic skills and build confidence by managing a business called the School of Roots, a business that grows and sells produce and fish to local markets. Teachers Ann Boover, Alex Brasili, and Jim Masterson with the students will be here to give a presentation on School of Roots: Why it works. HANCOCK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Meet iWork – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
In this session, participants will learn about how iWork makes creating impressive documents, spreadsheets, and presentations a snap! WASHINGTON (EDUCATION CENTER)
Developing Teacher Expertise – Stacy Schatzabel & Mick Roy, Bonny Eagle Middle School
iObservation is a web-based tool from Learning Sciences International LLC that assists educators with developing expertise using Robert Marzano’s five-part framework form his book, Effective Supervision. The five conditions are attended to in a systematic way: 1) A well-articulated knowledge base for teaching, 2) Opportunities for teachers to practice specific strategies or behaviors and receive feedback, 3) Opportunities for teachers to observe and discuss expertise, 4) clear criteria for success and help constructing professional growth and development plans, 5) Recognition of the different stages of development progressing toward expertise. A demonstration of the iObservation tool will be presented, along with sharing of thinking behind the professional growth model that supports Robert Marzano’s, The Art and Science of Teaching. PENOBSCOT (EDUCATION CENTER)
Watch Out Ken Burns – Student-Created Documentaries – Joyce Bucciantini, Auburn Middle School
Meeting the Common Core Standards has never been so much fun or informative. Using a few simple steps, participants will learn how to lead their students to academic success while creating Ken Burns style documentaries. No experience necessary. Participants will be able to view student created examples. Please bring your own tech device and we will create a short documentary in the session. SAGADAHOC (EDUCATION CENTER)
Authentic Writing – Historical Fiction about the Popham Colony – Amber Snell, Phippsburg Elementary School
The Untold Adventure of the Popham Colony is the title of the historical fiction book published by the Phippsburg Elementary fifth graders. Learn about the process they took to create this student-driven book and the authentic learning that took place along the way. FRANKLIN (EDUCATION CENTER)
Thursday 11:15 in Piscataquis
Liberate Your Inner Blogger! Barbara Greenstone, Boothbay School District, Jill Spencer, Learning Capacity Unlimited
Have you ever thought about blogging? MAMLE is looking for contributors to our new website, http://mainemamle.org/. Come learn about what’s involved and what the guidelines are, and maybe even write your first blog. Join the online conversation about best practices in the middle grades in Maine. PISCATAQUIS (EDUCATION CENTER)
Reading to Learn (RtL) in all Disciplines (Double Session A & B) – Kevin Perks, WestEd
Part II – Continued from Best Practice Session A CAFE (EDUCATION CENTER)
HP and Windows Media: Using Digital Media as a Tool in Learning (DOUBLE SESSION A & B) – HP Professional Development Trainers
Part II—continued from Best Practice Session A CUMBERLAND (EDUCATION CENTER)
Luncheon: Islesboro Ballroom – Erickson Hall
12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Exemplary Practice Awards
2:00 – 3:00 Best Practice Session C
I Tamed my Classroom with an iPad – How Using One has Made Teaching Easier – Jim Carmichael, Auburn Middle School
We all hear how great iPads are for student learning. Here’s a session devoted solely to showing how a teacher switched to teaching with an iPad, a digital projector with an AppleTV, and did away with the white board, overhead, chalkboard, and textbooks. Applications that will be demonstrated include iAnnotate, Dropbox, AirSketch, Notability, and websites like Wimp, Khan Academy, MathTV, PatrickJMT, Edmodo, YouTube, etc. Come see the many digital teaching possibilities for your class. DUCKTRAP (ERICKSON HALL)
Apple’s New iTunes U & iTunes U Course Manager – Hands On Workshop! (Double Session C & D) – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
You probably know Apple’s iTunes U as a wonderfully rich collection of teaching & learning resources. All sorts of things – from Library of Congress text, image and video content to materials posted by the Maine Department of Education in support of the MLTI, and so much more. But things have changed – the new iTunes U app for iOS allows access to iTunes U courses that can contain all sorts of content along with assignments and commentary. Great content – curated as a course. In addition, through iTunes U Course Manager, K-12 institution faculty can now create these courses independently. Head here: www.apple.com/education/itunes-u/ to learn more, and then plan to come to this session to experience iTunes U & iTunes U Course Manager in action. By having multiple Apple staff on hand, this session will offer an introduction to iTunes U Course Manager as well as a “workshop environment” where folks who have already begun using the tool can either refine an already created course, or begin the development of a new course.
NOTE: Please come with your Apple ID and password, as this will allow you to begin building courses right away. AROOSTOOK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Meet iLife – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
In this session, participants will learn about how the features of iPhoto, iMovie, and GarageBand enhance creativity in the classroom. WASHINGTON (EDUCATION CENTER)
What Do We Really Know about Standards? An Essential Question – Chris Milliken, Wells Junior High School
Chris Milliken, a 20-year classroom veteran has spent the last two years studying Standards-based education and assessment. He highlights strengths as well as limitations we should all keep in mind when exploring standards in our schools and classrooms. In this hands on presentation participants will learn the art of collaborative planning to approach essential questions and prioritize assessment methods across the curriculum in new a vital ways. Laptops will he helpful. PENOBSCOT (EDUCATION CENTER)
No More Digital Natives and Immigrants? – Matt Mervis
We need new ways to think about digital learning in a world where 6 out of the 7 billion people on earth are connected to rich sources of information and each other. This engaging session will equip you with the tools needed to chart an effective digital learning strategy with any tablet:
• Making Sense of The New Rules – When Everyone is a Tech User/Expert
• What to Do About All These Devices? Crafting a Doable 1:1 Plan
• Getting Teachers Back in the Driver Seat Managing Mobile Learning
• Building Meaningful Out of School Access for All Learners
In this hands-on session, you will use a range of innovative planning tools and apps including the School Fuel Mobile Learning CMS. Participants will learn how to curate mobile learning content using School Fuel and will have ongoing access to the platform after the session for free. KNOX (EDUCATION CENTER)
Revitalizing the Core: Democratic Education and Experience in The 21st Century – Thomas Steele-Maley, Kieve-Wavus Education
James Beane’s Curriculum Integration: Designing the Core of Democratic Education is now sixteen years old and more important than ever to the middle level and education in general. This session will offer a chance to re-invigorate a discussion on curriculum integration in the 21st Century through examples of schools and projects working toward curriculum integration, the practical tools available to scaffold the process and an emerging network of practitioners sharing experience and co-creating a future for curriculum integration and beyond. HANCOCK (EDUCATION CENTER)
BAM – Saco Middle School Wellness Day – Taryn Watts, Nicole Wise, Sam Blunda and Tina Rogers
BAM (Body and Mind) is a full day of Life Long Wellness Activities. The day was designed to increase overall wellness and physical activity for students and staff during the long winter season. The activities vary from Skiing and Tubing to Scrapbooking and Photography. Session will include an overview of activities, planning, handouts, hints on staffing and transportation. Join us to find out how you can incorporate BAM day into your curriculum. EXEMPLARY PRACTICE AWARD WINNER SAGADAHOC (EDUCATION CENTER)
Quest, Changing the Climate and Culture in a School Building – Dana Barrows, Westbrook Middle School
In our presentation we will discuss the important role of incorporating Quest into our middle school. The idea of Quest was initially proposed by a former assistant principal at Westbrook Middle School, Bob Griffin. The purpose of this program is to have all adults in the school choose an activity that they enjoy and would like to share with the student population. The activities are as diverse as our student population, such as: Knitting, Outdoor Photography, Dodgeball, and a plethora of other choices. The program was adopted to lessen student absenteeism and create a more friendly environment conducive to learning. During our presentation we will attach relevant photos and provide pertinent data to prove its integral place at Westbrook Middle School. FRANKLIN (EDUCATION CENTER)
We’re All A-Twitter! – Carl Bucciantini, Auburn Middle School
Students have been passing notes and talking during class practically since the beginning of time. In this session, participants will have the opportunity to experience a variety of ways to encourage student voice and participation via laptops, iPads, phones, iPods and any other way they can connect with each other to harness this need to talk in a way that does not interfere with learning and teaching. BYO device!
EXEMPLARY PRACTICE AWARD WINNER CAFE (EDUCATION CENTER)
Supporting the HP Solution with Access to Really Useful Free Resources (DOUBLE SESSION C & D) –
HP Professional Development Trainers
Investigate and explore a wealth of free tools and professional development resources available to you, through the HP MLTI solution, which enhances learning and instruction in your classroom. Learn how these tools may be applied in your classroom to engage students in 21st century learning activities to deepen and expand content and curriculum. Flip your classroom experience and empower students to take charge of their learning. This workshop will help support you in making the transition, with tools from Microsoft, Intel, Common Sense Media and Atomic Learning. We will also introduce you to the Partners in Learning Network and Intel Teachers Engage where you can join a supportive system of educators all over the world, exchanging ideas, lessons and success stories. CUMBERLAND (EDUCATION CENTER)
3:15 – 4:15 Best Practice Session D
Apple’s New iTunes U & iTunes U Course Manager – Hands On Workshop! (Double Session C & D) – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
Part II – Continued from Best Practice Session C AROOSTOOK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Cultivating Engaged Youth Leaders through Meaningful Service-Learning Experiences – Anita Stewart McCafferty, USM
Interested in high-quality examples of problem-based learning in practice? Interested in how three middle level educators effectively engage their students, schools, and communities in solving authentic problems while demonstrating proficiency in curricula standards? Interested in meaningful ways to cultivate youth leadership and effective citizenship? Betty, Tracie, and Anita will share varied service projects and tried and true instructional strategies and tips couched in the research around the power of engaging youth in high-quality service-learning experiences. PENOBSCOT (EDUCATION CENTER)
4 Energizing Strategies for Building Community – Jill Spencer, Learning Capacity Unlimited
Building a positive and safe classroom or team community that invites all students to learn is an all year process. Taking time for team building is “time on task” because a healthy climate leads to fewer disruptions, better attendance, and an esprit de corps that is inclusive. We will try out at least 4 different activities that build community and can be linked to content learning in surprising ways. KNOX (EDUCATION CENTER)
Panel on MCL – Bea McGarvey, Bill Zima, Wally Alexander
Many districts across the state are exploring mass customized learning as an approach for organizing their curriculum. If you are curious or have some questions about MCL, please join others in this informal discussion on the veranda designed to explore this timely topic.
GRINDELL POINT VERANDA (ERICKSON HALL)
Digital Storytelling with Cut Paper Animation – Barbara Greenstone, Boothbay School District
Cut paper animation is a technique that allows students to create animations with simple materials. We will share an animation project where 8th graders recreated Aesop’s fables using construction paper drawings and cut outs, still cameras, and iMovie. With the addition of music and voiceover narrations, the students created engaging videos and published them on our website. This project is easily adapted for other grade levels and content areas. CAFÉ (EDUCATION CENTER)
Senior Citizen Picture Book – Donna Farrington, Alyssa Dickinson, Rick Davis, Michele Charette, Medway Middle School
Open up a dialogue with your students and those who lived their childhood two generations ago. Students interview; gathering pictures, songs, and stroll down a path to a different era. View finished electronic picture books and leave with a sequence of lessons/activities that lead up to the finished product with rubrics and score sheets. FRANKLIN (EDUCATION CENTER)
Supporting the HP Solution with Access to Really Useful Free Resources (DOUBLE SESSION C & D) –
HP Professional Development Trainers
Part II—continued from Best Practice Session C CUMBERLAND (EDUCATION CENTER)
4:15 – 5:15 p.m.
“Meet Us in the Middle” Discussion & Happy Hour Lobby & Veranda (EH)
OR
Active Networking with John Keane Meet at the Fitness Center
Dinner on your own
8:00 – 11:00 p.m. Music, Dancing, Recreation, Veranda (EH)
Team Meetings
Friday, October 18, 2013
7:30 a.m. Conference Registration and Coffee Lobby – Erickson Hall (EH)
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Exhibits Veranda (EH)
8:30 – 9:30 a.m. General Session (No meal at this session)
Jack Berkemeyer Keynote Middle Level Education–Living It, Loving It, Laughing About It Islesboro Ballroom (EH)
9:30 – 10:00 a.m. Coffee and Exhibits Veranda (EH)
Cabin Check-out if you have not already done so
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All Day Individual Consultation – Drop by with your questions and individual issues:
Apple Computer – Aroostook (Education Center)
HP Help Desk – York (Education Center)
Bea McGarvey – Grindle Point Veranda (Erickson Hall)
10:00 – 11:00 Best Practice Session E
Language Arts Strategies that Motivate Young Adolescents – Jack Berckemeyer
Looking for fun and motivating ideas for your middle level classroom? This session is a hands-on session that provides real quality strategies in the areas of reading, writing, spelling, grammar, listening and speaking skills. No philosophy here just creative ideas to motivate the middle level learner. DUCKTRAP (ERICKSON HALL)
Explore Science and Social Studies in the Arctic – Mary Morton Cowan, Author
Mary Morton Cowan offers a slide presentation and discussion based on her award-winning biography, Captain Mac: The Life of Donald Baxter MacMillan, Arctic Explorer. Highlights of MacMillan’s adventurous career, his many expeditions, scientific research, and cultural contributions are featured, including sailing north on his specially-designed schooner, Bowdoin. Participants will explore ways to use this resource to support science and social studies curricula, including exploration, geography, civil rights, technology (radio), physics (magnetism), climatology, and more. KNOX (EDUCATION CENTER)
Civil War Integrative Unit – Ernie Easter, New Sweden School
The Civil War, an integrative unit, is taught through History, English Language Arts, Music, and Art. Making extensive use of photographs by Civil War Era photographers as well as resources from the Library of Congress, Maine Memory, and the National Park Service, students spend time analyzing photographs and creating their own photographs in the style of Mathew Brady. Also, students read primary and fictional sources to develop their own role-playing character to help them appreciate what is going on as they keep their own diary and react to the events that lead up to and events during the Civil War. A formal research paper and student presentation round out the unit. HANCOCK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Meet Explain Everything and Notability – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
In this session, participants will be introduced to the Explain Everything and Notability, apps on the iPad that allow students to annotate, animate, and narrate explanations and presentations… and discuss how these apps can enhance student engagement and learning. WASHINGTON (EDUCATION CENTER)
Learning Progressions – Courtney Belolan & Jon Beede, Mt. Ararat Middle School
Understanding and using learning progression is the key to successfully implementing proficiency- based education. Both the English and Social Studies teachers at Mt. Ararat Middle School have jumped into the work of developing and using learning progressions to support assessment and instruction. Come talk with us about what a learning progression is, how we created ours, how we use them, and what we plan to do next. PENOBSCOT (EDUCATION CENTER)
Effective Vocabulary Instruction (Double Session E & F) – Kevin Perks, WestEd
Vocabulary is an essential element within any set of standards – particularly the CCSS and the NGSS. Therefore, effective instruction in any content area is partially dependent upon how well teachers integrate vocabulary learning throughout units and lessons. This workshop will describe a five-stage process for integrating vocabulary instruction into any unit within any discipline. Participants will also become familiar with and practice using a variety of techniques that help students effectively master and use vocabulary.
SAGADAHOC (EDUCATION CENTER)
The Teenage Brain: Stress, Exclusion, Homework, Systemic Thinking, and You! – Ward Willis & Luke Howell, Middle School of the Kennebunks
Join Middle School of the Kennebunk’s educators Ward Willis (Batman) and Luke Howell (Robin) for a discussion about brain chemistry and anatomy. This interactive discussion will address brain activity, its influence on teen behavior, and how we can intentionally shape school culture to support the unique needs of our communities. Mr. Willis is an RTI Behaviorist and past MAMLE presenter, while this will be Science-Guy Luke Howell’s first foray into the MAMLE adventure.
FRANKLIN (EDUCATION CENTER)
Grouping and Regrouping to Meet Student Learning Needs – Holly Tupper & Hope Herrick, Messalonskee Middle School
Holly Tupper (ELA) and Hope Herrick (Math/Science) teach at Messalonskee Middle School. They teach on four person teams that work together to meet the needs of all learners. One of the ways in which they meet individual needs is to group and regroup students for different learning goals. This presentation will focus on some options for how to group and regroup students based on several different variables (interest, level, content). The presentation will also discuss how groups are formed using data.
PISCATAQUIS (EDUCATION CENTER)
Taming the Paper Tiger – Joyce Bucciantini, Auburn Middle School
Taming the paper tiger while customizing instruction: One language arts teachers story of differentiation in the classroom while leaving the printer behind. This presentation will include examples of using free web-based resources to customize student learning and feedback for vocabulary, reading discussions and conferencing. Bring your own tech devise and leave with ideas to customize learning paperlessly.
CAFE (EDUCATION CENTER)
Digital Literacy and Citizenship: Best Practices for Districts (DOUBLE SESSION E & F) – Phil Brookhouse, MLTI
Young people today are growing up in a digital world that has the potential to enrich their learning. Yet administrators face daily challenges dealing with behavioral issues that arise from students’ use of technology. Although digital citizenship skills have become essential for students in the 21st century, neither students nor schools have a roadmap to guide them. With the new CIPA/E-Rate education requirements that mandate that all schools receiving E-Rate discounts educate students about Internet safety, it’s even more critical that administrators have resources to teach students basic Internet safety skills. Attend this session to learn more about Common Sense Media’s free digital citizenship resources and how Common Sense Media is helping to support administrators in raising a generation of good digital citizens. You’ll leave with ideas and tools you can implement immediately in your school community CUMBERLAND (EDUCATION CENTER)
11:15 – 12:15 Best Practice Session F
Learning Endeavors – Elizabeth Firnkes, Messalonskee Middle School
Elizabeth Firnkes teaches at Messalonskee Middle School where they have made a commitment to providing a customized learning environment for students. In RSU 18, educators work in teams with learners to build visions for learning using a three part model of curriculum: content knowledge, habits of mind and complex reading. This presentation will focus around building a multi-disciplinary unit called “Learning Endeavors” using digital portfolios in Google sites and data from a student management program called “Educate”. These Learning Endeavors help create a culture of “growth mindsets” and use invention reasoning and problem solving situations that honor each student’s readiness to learn and builds in learner choice as a key motivator. DUCKTRAP (ERICKSON HALL)
Meet Apple’s iBooks Author – Hands On Workshop! (Double Session E & F) – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
II – Continued from Best Practice Session E AROOSTOOK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Middle School 101 – Jill Spencer, Learning Capacity Unlimited
New to the middle grades? Need to reignite your passion for effective & developmentally responsive instructional strategies in the age of extreme testing? Join us as we explore what over 30 years and 3000+ research studies tell us about the young adolescent and their educational needs. Needless to say, this session will be an interactive and hands-on! KNOX (EDUCATION CENTER)
Zero Waste: Two Teachers’ Journey into Deeper Learning – Sarah Rubin & Sherry Coyne, Gorham Middle School
Learn about the journey of two regular education teachers as they bring deeper learning experiences into their classroom using Chewonki’s Zero Waste Contest as a jumping off point. Sarah and Sherry will share how they used the Zero Waste contest to meet Common Core State Standards and engage students in an effort to make a real difference in our school. HANCOCK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Panel on MCL – Bea McGarvey, Bill Zima, Wally Alexander
Many districts across the state are exploring mass customized learning as an approach for organizing their curriculum. If you are curious or have some questions about MCL, please join others in this informal discussion on the veranda designed to explore this timely topic.
GRINDELL POINT VERANDA (ERICKSON HALL)
Meet Xperica and WolframAlpha – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
In this session, participants will be introduced to Xperica and Wolfram, apps that give students access to data, allow them to calculates answers across a range of topics, and provide students experiences in science that foster learning. WASHINGTON (EDUCATION CENTER)
Beyond Words: Writing Protocols – Toby Haber, Gray-New Gloucester Middle School
Most of our middle level students can write sentences, but writing must meet different purposes. We must teach the structure of writing, which organizes thought and word. As we strive to help our students meet CCSS, we know writing has to be intentional. Higher order thinking skills are required to perceive the task and organize the response. Explicit writing skills instruction techniques can help your students work smarter, not harder.
PENOBSCOT (EDUCATION CENTER)
Using the iPad in the mathematics classroom – Lisa Hogan, EDC
This session will introduce participants to interactive iPad apps for use in mathematics and science classrooms that can be used to target CCSS and NGSS standards and practices. Bring your devices to join related hands-on exploration. PISCATAQUIS (EDUCATION CENTER)
Effective Vocabulary Instruction (DOUBLE SESSION E & F) – Kevin Perks, WestEd
Part II – Continued from Best Practice Session E SAGADAHOC (EDUCATION CENTER)
Assessment in the Customized Classroom – Sarah Irish, T.W. Kelly Dirigo Middle School
Assessment is a key component to a customized classroom, but how do you design authentic assessments for students? In this session you will learn how to design traditional paper and pencil assessments as well as out of the box thinking assessments. FRANKLIN (EDUCATION CENTER)
Integrative Learning and Technology: Building Dynamic Connections Between Content and Community – Heather Libby & Diana Carson, Auburn Middle School
Based on Common Core learning targets, come to this session and see examples of teaching, collaborating and learning through project-based learning activities. Through the integration of science, art, humanities, and technology, students experience real-world problems and gain a greater understanding of self and community. Presenters will show examples of student work, organizational techniques, complex-reasoning schema, helpful apps and assessment tools. Units on “Kids as Curators” and “Public Art in our Community” will be emphasized. CAFE (EDUCATION CENTER)
Digital Literacy and Citizenship: Best Practices for Districts (DOUBLE SESSION E & F) – Phil Brookhouse, MLTI
Part II – Continued from Best Practice Session E CUMBERLAND (EDUCATION CENTER)
12:30-1:45 Luncheon Islesboro Ballroom Erickson Hall
Janet Nesin Reynolds Outstanding Educator Awards
2:00 – 3:00 Best Practice Session G
Using Zooniverse To Support Standards-based Learning – Phil Brookhouse, MLTI
Argumentation from evidence. Asking questions. Using data. Analyzing investigations. Do these practices sound familiar? Using citizen-science based investigations, students can make authentic contributions to the world of knowledge, and work at a pace that suits them in a performance-based environment. In addition, they can work with NGSS and even some cross-discipline standards. Zooniverse has many projects that are non-platform specific and web based. AROOSTOOK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Digital Reading and Writing with Blogs – Barbara Greenstone, Boothbay School District
In this session we will explore how students can use blogs to improve their reading and writing skills to meet some of the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy and the ISTE NETS for Students. We will discuss how students can find, read, analyze, and evaluate blogs on topics of their choosing, and then create their own blogs where they will publish their writing to a worldwide audience. This session is not platform or grade-level specific. With internet access on any device, students can read and write blogs!
KNOX (EDUCATION CENTER)
Rehearse for Success! – Jill Spencer, Learning Capacity Unlimited
Hemingway said, “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” Unfortunately some of our students “bleed” more than others when it comes to writing. Rehearsal strategies allow students to try out ideas, vocabulary, and organizational strategies. They are beneficial whether students are gifted writers or struggle with the written word. Come explore both digital and face-to-face activities that build students competence, confidence, and understanding of content material.
HANCOCK (EDUCATION CENTER)
Meet the Apple Professional Development Catalog – Maine-based Apple PD Specialists
In this session, participants will introduced to the APD Catalog, have a chance to ask questions about the offerings, and become aware of the process for requesting these sessions or their school. WASHINGTON (EDUCATION CENTER)
Cultivating Engaged Youth Leaders through Meaningful Service-Learning Experiences – Anita Stewart McCafferty, USM
Interested in high-quality examples of problem-based learning in practice? Interested in how three middle level educators effectively engage their students, schools, and communities in solving authentic problems while demonstrating proficiency in curricula standards? Interested in meaningful ways to cultivate youth leadership and effective citizenship? Betty, Tracie, and Anita will share varied service projects and tried and true instructional strategies and tips couched in the research around the power of engaging youth in high-quality service-learning experiences. PENOBSCOT (EDUCATION CENTER)
Technology In The Customized Classroom – Sarah Irish, T.W. Kelly Dirigo Middle School
In order for customization to occur in the classroom successfully effective implementation of technology is critical. In this session you will learn about a variety of tools to use in your classroom to help facilitate elements of customized learning. These free digital tools will help the teacher facilitate learning, as well as the student access and demonstrate their learning. FRANKLIN (EDUCATION CENTER)
7 Powerful Uses of Technology for Learning – Mike Muir, Auburn School District
Do you ask yourself, “What am I supposed to do with these?” or wonder, “What else could I do with these?” as you look at your students’ technology? This session will explore awesome strategies teachers might use to leverage technology to improve learning for their students.SAGADAHOC (EDUCATION CENTER)
Coding is Cool: Project>Login for Middle-Level Learners – Jay Collier, Educate Maine – Project > Login
Project>Login is Educate Maine’s business-led campaign to expand the network of K-12, college, and adult learners who discover, explore, and pursue pathways toward high-demand computing and info tech careers in Maine. In this presentation, you’ll learn about our new strategies for sparking curiosity among middle-level learners about the power of coding, including co-curricular learning activities, computational thinking curricula, and career awareness materials. PISCATAQUIS (EDUCATION CENTER)
Jumping in with Both Feet: A Customized Math Classroom – Peggy Brown, Melissa Cribby, & Marybeth Latti, Mt. Ararat Middle School
Students learn in different ways at different rates. In this session participants will experience a “snapshot” of how the teachers at Mt. Ararat Middle School are working to customize their math classrooms using the Common Core State Standards. Participants will leave this session with the tools they need to begin to customize their own classroom: ways to use assessment, on-line resources, management tools, and ideas for creating a classroom culture where students are in charge of their learning. CAFE (EDUCATION CENTER)
3:15 – 4:15 Closing Session
“We do not learn from experience…we learn from reflecting on experience.” – John Dewey
Before we climb into our cars and head off, it is important to take a few moments to reflect on the ideas we have encountered and discussed over the past two days. This short, interactive session will help us think about what we have learned and how to adapt strategies to our individual situations back home. Also, the door prizes will be awarded and the name of the winner of the kayak will be drawn!
AROOSTOOK (EDUCATION CENTER)
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