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AGENDA
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Conference Registration
10:00 am – 6:30 pm
Location: Wildwood Ballroom Registration Desk
Exhibitor Registration/Setup
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Wildwood Ballroom Pre-Function
General Session:
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Location: Avalon #5/#11
Keynote Speaker: Kristina Ishmael
Kristina Ishmael is an educator, learner, advocate, and agent of change. As the leader of the Office of Ed Tech, Ishmael executes the office mission of developing national edtech policy that enables everywhere, all-the-time learning and supports digital equity and opportunity.
Ishmael most recently worked as an educational consultant and Sr. Research Fellow at New America working at the intersection of open education, digital equity, and culturally responsive and sustaining education. She previously worked in OET leading the #GoOpen initiative, as well as serving the state of Nebraska as the Digital Learning Specialist. Ishmael started her education career as an early childhood and elementary teacher to emerging bilingual learners in Omaha, Nebraska.
3:00 pm – 3:15 pm Refreshment Break
Location – Avalon Pre-Function Area
Group Sessions
Session 1
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #1/#2
Automating Your Standard Response Protocol
A uniform, planned, and practiced response to any incident is the foundation of a safe school. Join us and hear how Hillsborough Public Schools seized the opportunity of their old failing intercom systems to improve, automate and enhance their Standard Response Protocol. By implementing the phone system with a mass notification solution and deploying IP speakers and message boards, we now have automated responses and easy activation of the district's SRP across all schools. Integrated functionality with other systems, such as fire and door access has made emergency management seamless. Now everyone in the district is on the same page.
Presenters:
Joel Handler
Director of Technology
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
Sean Dawson
IT Consultant
ePlus Technology
Rick Kelsten
Principal Architect
ePlus Technology
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
sdawson@eplus.com
Session 2
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #3/#4
Solving the Mysteries of Cybersecurity
As ransomware and other cybersecurity threats accelerate in frequency and sophistication, how can you protect your schools? As threats to the education and public sector communities continue to rise, it's more important than ever to be prepared for an attack, but budgets have not increased accordingly.
In this session we’ll discuss: real-world tested, prioritized mitigation strategies for state of the art attacks and how you can achieve optimum threat readiness to enhance operational continuity, raise cybersecurity awareness, and demonstrate budgetary benefits such as reduced rise in cybersecurity insurance premiums.
Presenters:
Evan Abramson
Director of Technology and Innovation
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
Dawn Dunkerley
Chief Information Security Officer
NJ Edge
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
eabramson@mujc.org
Session 3
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #6/#7
Using Microsoft 365 in a Google Environment
Have you gone to a full Google environment and realize, wow I am missing out on some great Microsoft apps, Office 365 etc.? Learn how Monmouth Regional runs a dual platform district and uses Microsoft on Google chromebooks.
Presenter:
Theodore Ragavas
Technology Supervisor
Monmouth Regional High School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://www.monmouthregional.net/Page/2703
Session 4
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #12
Data Discovery Pathways
Join West Windsor-Plainsboro's leadership team to learn how our district has strategically rolled out a comprehensive multi-year plan to make data actionable across ten schools. This session will highlight three key transitions:
1-Shifting from disparate assessment and data systems to LinkIt to provide all staff with secure and efficient access to all their student performance and intervention data
2-Creating student agency by helping students and parents view assessment as something done with them, not to them
3-Encouraging data discoveries and providing tools to strategically group students by areas of strength and potential growth
Presenters:
Dr. Christine Capaci
Director of Data, Assessment, and Accountability
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
Lindsay Jablonski
Language Arts, Supervisor, K-5
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
Dr. Pamela Nathan
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
Dr. Melissa Pearson
Mathematics, Supervisor, K-5
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1acQEk1-PKMAqikUIWHUp-mw5-WC1BrkjNh_kdkOs8GE/preview
Session 5
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Wildwood #3/#4
More Than Robots
Come meet Hillsborough High School's Robotics Team 75, the RoboRaiders. Whether your district has a team or may be interested in starting one, Team 75 is here to help! Our student leaders will explain how First Robotics Competitions work, provide an overview of our team, and explain how our team, or yours, can make a big difference in the lives of students and your local community.
Presenters:
Daniel Cyckowski
Computer Support Teacher
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
Todd MacDonald
Head Coach, Hillsborough High School Robotics Team 75
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
tmacdonald@htps.us
Session 6
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #8
Tackling the Tiers: One District’s Path Toward Adopting an NJTSS Framework
Operationalizing a high-quality NJTSS Framework requires buy-in and significant shifts across any learning organization. Learn about the fundamental changes in philosophy, leadership, responsibilities, professional learning, and processes, and platforms (LinkIt's Intervention Manager) that have helped us adopt a more meaningful and targeted approach to I&RS and tiered systems of support to proactively address and strengthen our responses to the diverse needs of students. This realistic and practical behind-the-scenes view of our coordinated (albeit nonlinear) approach will highlight some of the critical points that have helped us move student data forward in our district with an emphasis on data to identify needs and measure progress toward goals - whether for academic intervention or enrichment.
Presenters:
Kate DeRosa
Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction
Franklin Lakes School District
Liesel Steines
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Franklin Lakes School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
kderosa@franklinlakes.k12.nj.us, lsteines@franklinlakes.k12.nj.us
Session 7
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Wildwood #1/#2
Past, Present, Future: Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality in Education
In this session, attendees will learn about the evolution of augmented and virtual reality starting with the early uses of the technology through the lens of a district's middle school pilot program fifteen years ago and the current uses and progression of these emergent technologies in schools today. Now, in 2022, schools are afforded the opportunity to provide students with unique DEI global perspectives, hands on experiences that are otherwise irreplicable, and creative approaches to learning that are simply unparalleled through this medium. The learning experience is undergoing a massive transformation as augmented and virtual reality become ubiquitous.
Presenters:
Christine Lion-Bailey
Director of Technology & Innovation | Principal
Morris Plains School District
Fil Santiago
Director of Technology and Administrative Services
West Orange Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
bit.ly/CLBresources
Session 8
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #13
Google Classroom for Teacher Collaboration
Google Classroom can be used to leverage collaboration among teacher teams (even at the early childhood level). In this session, participants will learn how a kindergarten team of teachers from Westfield, NJ took years of lesson planning and preparation and shifted these practices to Google Classroom to stay connected and organized during the Pandemic. Three years later this system has proven to not only be effective and time efficient but has allowed for team members to strengthen their connections with each other and their students.
Presenters:
Jeanine Gottko
Master Technology Teacher
Westfield Public Schools
Tiffany Jacobson
Principal
Westfield Public Schools
Toni-Nicole Redman
Kindergarten Teacher
Westfield Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
tredman@westfieldnjk12.org
Session 9
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #14
Creating Customized Graphics to Increase Student and Community Engagement
This presentation will discuss the district-wide use of graphic resources to increase student learning and community engagement. From overall district branding to teacher-created graphics to student design projects, Ocean Township Schools thrive to engage stakeholders and increase learning through the use of free and easy-to-use software and websites - like Canva, Adobe Express, and Google Drawings. Presenters - both Educational Technical Teaching Specialists - will discuss district branding, social media tips, strategies for teachers, and graphic design lessons for students. Find out how your district can improve engagement through the use of branded graphics.
Presenters:
Kristin Gasser
Educational Technical Teaching Specialist - Intermediate School
Township of Ocean Schools
Tim Spaeth
Educational Technology Teaching Specialist - High School
Township of Ocean Schools
Session 10
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #15
Wrangle Your App Sprawl: Use Single Sign-On & Rostering to Streamline the User Experience (and Improve Your Cybersecurity Posture Too!)
Four years ago we set ourselves a goal to create a curated list of district approved apps, streamline how users access the district approved apps/textbooks, and improve how faculty manage textbook licenses. Single sign-on in conjunction with rostering was our solution and we now believe that every district can realize amazing benefits from implementing them. Come learn about our journey and how single sign-on can help you solve issues you may be facing such as reducing tickets for login issues, securing more than just email with 2FA, and more!
Presenters:
JJ Keveanos
Systems Administrator
Montville Township Public Schools
Austin Thomsen
Director of IT Services
Montville Township Public Schools
Dr. Andrea Wallace
Educational Technology Teacher Coach
Montville Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://bit.ly/techspo23-sso
Session 11
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #16
Everyone Can Code
Teaching and learning to code provides essential skills such as creativity, collaboration, and problem solving while also preparing students for future careers. Explore Apple’s Everyone Can Code curriculum and how you can learn how to introduce students to coding and app design with the fun Swift Playgrounds app on iPad and Mac.
Presenters:
Durell Burress
Technology Educator
Linden Public Schools
Howard Schulz
Technology Educator
Linden Public Schools
Lauren Basselini
Education Leadership Executive
Apple
Paul Vassak
Education Leadership Executive
Apple
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
pvassak@apple.com
Session 12
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Avalon #17
Utilizing LinkIt! For ALL Your Assessment Needs
You might be using LinkIt’s yearly benchmark assessments already; but did you know you and your staff can create your own assessments within the platform? With thousands of standard-aligned questions from K-12, there’s something for everyone. You can even go in and create your own questions with a dozen different question types. Results from your assessments will live within the LinkIt platform so you can use the data to make instructional decisions to impact student learning. Come learn how you and your staff can easily create assessments to fit your district's needs!
Presenters:
Liz Bacskai
BSI Teacher/Lead Teacher of Technology
Little Egg Harbor School District
Rich DiMauro
Instructional Technology Coach
Pinelands Regional School District
Session 13
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Wildwood #8/#9
Securing Staff and Students from Evolving Email Threats
Email remains the top attack vector for cybercriminals. In this session, we will review the different email security tools available, such as SPF, DKIM, DMARC, Behavior Analytics, Sandboxing, and more, to protect your staff, students, and district reputation against these cybercriminals. Hear first-hand from local NJ school district IT staff about their implementation of these tools and how they've avoided becoming a victim to email threats.
Presenters:
Lenny Libitz
CTO
South Bound Brook Public School
Chris Peluso
COO
Libraesva
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
chris.peluso@libraesva.com
RECEPTION
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Wildwood #11/#16
(Exhibit Hall)
Join us in the Exhibit Hall as we welcome old acquaintances
and meet new friends!
Thursday, January 26, 2023
Conference Registration
7:00 am – 5:30 pm
Location: Wildwood Ballroom Registration Desk
Exhibit Hours
8:00 am – 4:15 pm
Exhibit Hall Opens!
8:00 am
Continental Breakfast
Location: Wildwood #11/#16 (Exhibit Hall)
General Session:
9:00 am – 10:15 am
Location: Avalon #5/#11
Keynote Speaker: Laura McBain
Laura McBain (she/her) (@laura_mcbain) is a designer, educator and serves as managing director of the Stanford d.school and the co-director of the K12 Lab. Her work focuses on how human-centered design can be used to provide equitable and innovative educational experiences that will help all students thrive in a changing world. In this role she leads design challenges in education, designs new learning experiences for educators and serves as an adjunct professor at Stanford University. She is the author of My Favorite Failure: How Setbacks Can Lead to Learning and Growth which provides insights and narratives into how you can create the conditions to take risks and experience failure together. Prior to the d.school, Laura worked for 15 years at High Tech High serving as the Director of External Relations, principal of two school sites and a founding teacher. She has taught middle and high school students in both charter comprehensive schools. Laura has a Bachelors from Miami University-Oxford, Ohio and a Masters from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Take a Break!
10:15 am - 10:30 am
Exhibit Hall Refreshments/Networking
Location: Wildwood #11/#16 (Exhibit Hall)
Group Sessions
Session 1
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #1/#2
Build Student Capacity Through a Technology Internship Program
Student Technology Internships provide opportunities for students to work directly with technicians and learn real-world skills in break/fix, device troubleshooting, and customer service. Join Hamilton Township School District leaders in learning about the planning and implementation of the Internship program and ways to organize your own in your district.
Presenter:
Cara Flodmand
Instructional Technology Coordinator
Hamilton Township School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
cflodmand@htsdnj.org
Session 2
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #10
STEM Maker Tales
STEM Maker Tales! Where writing, coding, and maker space collide into a creative lesson. Maker Tales is a STEM-based lesson that allows our younger students to create digital stories and build props in maker space. To complete this project students use robots and coding skills to share their stories. This lesson is a creative way to incorporate the NJ Learning Standards for Computer Science and Design Thinking.
Presenters:
Maureen Baldwin
STEM Teacher
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
Jessica Estlow
Technology Teacher
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
Glenn Robbins
Superintendent
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jestlow@brigantineschools.org
Session 3
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #6/#7
Go Global! Virtual Class-to-Class Connections for Climate Action
Come see how your school can connect virtually with schools from across the world in a shared commitment while meeting the new New Jersey Climate Standards. The Morris-Union Jointure Commission, a public school for students with disabilities, has joined Take Action Global (TAG) in being a climate action school. Participants will learn how technology and engaging project-based learning is making a difference in empowering students to take action for the planet.
Presenters:
Dr. Janet Fike
Superintendent
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
NJASA Immediate Past President
Denise Smallacomb
Assistant Superintendent
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
Dr. Jennifer Williams
Executive Director
Take Action Global
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
dsmallacomb@mujc.org
Session 4
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Wildwood #6/#7
Personalizing Every Child’s Path to Literacy Success Through Choice and Agency: Best Practices, Engagement, and Student Choice in a Blended Learning Classroom
Strong links exist between motivation and reading comprehension. We will demonstrate by using multi-faceted ebook solutions adaptable to all facets of the literacy block by providing authentic, culturally responsive and engaging literature for students. In an effective and adaptable platform, teachers will support the tenets of language development and academic language while fostering the joy of reading and be provided with actionable personalized data. The flexibility of the platform promotes impactful blended learning and empowers students with a sense of agency in their reading.
Presenters:
Soany Cummings
Supervisor of Bilingual & ESL Education
Passaic Public Schools
Karolin Fernandez
Supervisor of Bilingual & ESL Education
Passaic Public Schools
Dr. Karen Burke
SVP Education
Scholastic
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
avaldes@scholastic.com
Session 5
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #12
Three Practical Tips for Your Overwhelmed Data Person
Data-informed, data-driven, yadda yadda. We’ve heard it all a million times, but most districts still struggle to make data worth the effort. Dr. Marc Mancinelli, founder of the South Jersey Data Leaders Partnership, specializes in building capacity in K-12 data leaders. In this workshop, we’ll share three actionable takeaways for your data teams, including: a) how data REALLY works in education, b) frameworks for a sustainable data improvement cycle, and c) one powerful technique for detecting meaningful correlations between academic and non-academic factors. Hosted with OnCourse Systems for Education.
Presenters:
Dr. Marc Mancinelli
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
Lindenwold Public Schools
Tre Gonzalez
Director of Growth
OnCourse Systems for Education
Session 6
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #18/#19
Going from Good to Great: Purposeful Assessment and Data Analysis
Our session will focus on how Fair Haven Public Schools has continuously improved student achievement through the strategic use of data. We recently shifted from adaptive benchmarks to LinkIt’s NJSLS fixed-form assessments that provide transparent access to question content. This has allowed our staff to examine the rigor of complex questions and what each standard truly measures. We will also review our use of local percentiles vs national norms to inform our tiered systems of support and determine program eligibility. Finally, we will share examples of student/parent reports measuring standard, topic, and skill progress that help serve as individualized learning plans.
Presenters:
Sean McNeil
Superintendent
Fair Haven Public Schools
Cheryl Romano
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Fair Haven Public Schools
Chad Marcus
Chief Academic Officer
LinkIt
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
romanoc@fairhaven.edu
Session 7
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #14
Using Data to Develop Students' Soft Skills
A healthy learning environment allows students to engage in discourse and work collaboratively as they develop new understandings. This type of classroom also provides organic moments for students to develop their social-emotional learning skills with context. But how can these soft skills be measured and how can that data be analyzed and communicated with students and families in a way that helps students grow? This session will explore how a middle school science class is doing this using free tools such as Google Forms, Google Data Studio, and Autocrat.
Presenters:
Thomas Clayton
Teacher of Science
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
Dr. David Greer
Assistant Superintendent
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
Jeremy Marx
Instructional Technologist
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
Dr. Melissa Varley
Superintendent
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jmarx@bhpsnj.org
Session 8
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #9
The Security of Things
The safety and security challenges schools face today are more complex than ever before. Protecting students and staff requires a comprehensive and continual approach to these challenges, encompassing both physical and cyber security. Please join Westfield School District and Core BTS for an interactive discussion on how security needs to be adapted and modified based upon the ever changing security landscape.
Presenters:
Brian Auker
CTO
Westfield Public Schools
Joe Marateo
Assistant Network Manager
Westfield Public Schools
Arvin Vidal
District Network Manager
Westfield Public Schools
Michele Kramer
Account Manger
Core BTS
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
michele.kramer@corebts.com
Session 9
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #13
Education 4.0 is Here, Has Your District Taken the Leap?
Did you know that we are in the 4th Industrial Revolution? This shift has created Education 4.0, which is the new wave of learning, in which technology has become a necessary life skill, and no longer just a resource. New Brunswick Public Schools has taken the leap and approached this challenge with the adoption for new curriculum, technology, innovative experiences, and professional development.
Presenters:
Dr. Aubrey Johnson
Superintendent
New Brunswick Public Schools
Jamie Schoenbach
Supervisor of Instructional Technology
New Brunswick Public Schools
Carla Segarra
Director of Digital Learning and Innovation
New Brunswick Public Schools
Session 10
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #15
Welcome to Canvasland: Rolling Out a New LMS
In this session, we will offer our experience as a blueprint for adopting Canvas as a new learning management system in your district. Attendees will get a tour of how Canvas is being practically used in a high school setting, will learn more about how Canvas saves teachers time, and will better understand the value of unifying the online student experience with an LMS.
If you’ve ever wondered why some schools adopt learning management systems, or if you’re just curious about what an LMS is capable of offering your students and staff in 2023, this session is for you!
Presenters:
Dr. Marc Cicchino
Director of Innovation
Northern Valley Regional High School District
Dr. Jennifer Mezzina
Director of Data, Compliance, and State Reporting
Northern Valley Regional High School District
James Santana
Superintendent
Northern Valley Regional High School District
Session 11
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #8
Helping CTE Learners Make Academic Gains
The challenges of CTE instruction with varied learners can be addressed with digital supports. Students’ skill gaps can be filled in with digital core courses. Upper level CTE concepts can be broken down to smaller skill sets.
Presenters:
Dr. Dawn Stokes-Tyler
Assistant Director of Teaching and Learning and Innovative Projects
East Orange School District
Sheila Miller
Partnership Manager
Edmentum
Session 12
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #3/#4
Cyber Security and Data Privacy: Trends, Risks and Best Practices
This session addresses ways in which districts can manage cyber risks by instituting best practices to reduce their operational, financial, legal, and reputational risks. Participants will engage in discussions to address the following:
- Management of Cyber Risk via internal policies/procedures;
- Mitigation strategies and operational tactics to minimize exposure and risk
- Awareness and prioritization to combat cyber security threats
- The challenges of the trending shift to Off-Premise services (SaaS)
- Management of cyber security risks through formal, ongoing Vendor Risk Programs, internal policies, procedures and controls.
Presenters:
Joel Handler
Director of Technology
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
Fil Santiago
Director of Technology and Administrative Services
West Orange Public Schools
Session 13
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Wildwood #5
Supplement Your District’s Programs with NJ Virtual School!
In this session, educational leaders from Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission (MOESC) will highlight ways that districts throughout the state are utilizing New Jersey Virtual School (NJVS) to offer students flexibility and diversity in their learning. The presenters will share information on NJVS dual enrollment programs, College Board approved Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive and credit recovery courses, and unique elective options. A demonstration of the online learning platform will also be provided.
Presenters:
Dr. Bill George
Superintendent
Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission
Dr. Wendy Morales
Assistant Superintendent
Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission
Dr. Derek Tranchina
Director of Special Projects
Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
wmorales@moesc.org
Session 14
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Wildwood #3/#4
Google Update 2023: Takeaways Guaranteed to Ensure Your District is Productive, Efficient, & Progressive
Change happens. Let’s face it. Google for Education is one of the most dynamic and incredible resources we have access to as educators. Google is constantly updating all of their applications, so it is essential to keep current on the constant updates to ensure that your district is efficient, progressive, and taking advantage of the full extent of the Google platform. Come see the most important updates that will make you more efficient and productive. If your district doesn’t follow the updates and leaves Google to chance, you will leave this session with enormous Google takeaways!
Presenters:
Michael Ballone
Assistant Superintendent
Marlboro Township Public Schools
Dr. Eric M. Hibbs
Superintendent
Marlboro Township Public Schools
Session 15
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Wildwood #1/#2
Apple's Vision for Learning
When you invest in Apple technology, you’re providing your community with a powerful ecosystem for learning -one that’s informed by more than 40 years of experience working with educators and supporting research on the impact of technology in learning. We provide products, services, and support to enable learning that’s connected, collaborative, creative, and personal for every individual, no matter how they learn, where they learn, or what they love to do. This session will give you a deeper understanding of the four design principles of Apple’s vision for learning, as well as inspiration for how you can empower all learners today and prepare them for tomorrow.
Presenters:
Dr. Joan Mast
Superintendent
Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools
Lauren Basselini
Education Leadership Executive
Apple
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://education-static.apple.com/leadership/vision-for-learning-ipad.pdf
Session 16
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Wildwood #8/#9
MERGE-ing Instruction with Augmented Reality
Want to hold the world in the palm of your hands? Participants in this session will get hands-on experience with Merge Augmented Reality cubes and software. The Merge Cube works with Merge EDU, a hands-on digital learning platform that enhances students’ educational experiences with 3D objects and simulations they can touch, hold and manipulate. Students are engaged using these digital manipulatives and the software provides opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be possible in a classroom setting. Using minimal setup and peripherals, teachers will seamlessly integrate these simulations into their curriculum. Students will then directly manipulate elements of the content, contributing to deeper learning and further questioning.
Presenters:
Julie Spoerl
Elementary Technology Coordinator
New Providence School District
Nick Zipeto
Technology Coordinator
New Providence School District
Session 17
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #17
3 Free Tools for Securing Your On-Prem Active Directory
We will be discussing and doing a live demo of three free tools that can give you some easy cybersecurity wins! The tools are: PingCastle - scan your active directory for common misconfigurations and vulnerabilities; Lithnet Password Protection - has a number of password related features, but we’ll be focusing on blocking compromised passwords from being used; and Lithnet Access Manager - safely delegate just-in-time administrative access to servers/workstations in a modern and user-friendly way.
Presenters:
Austin Thomsen
Director of IT Services
Montville Township Public Schools
JJ Keveanos
Systems Administrator
Montville Township Public Schools
Mario Zagorski
Jr. Systems Administrator
Montville Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://bit.ly/techspo23-secureAD
Session 18
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #16
NEWSFLASH: The Best PD Does NOT Always Happen on District PD Days
The greatest lesson we have all learned from the pandemic is that flexibility is non-negotiable when it comes to educating students. Students enter our classrooms with a host of academic and social emotional challenges. Offering flexible online PD can engage our staff in professional learning opportunities that suit their hectic schedules and specific needs. We will share with you a robust platform that houses current content with live and recorded webinars. Your staff will be eager to engage in while driving to work, taking leisurely walks or in groups with colleagues all while meeting district goals and student needs.
Presenters:
Robin Knutelsky
Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment and Human Resources
Northern Highlands Regional High School District
Tracy Leigh
Teacher Technology Coordinator
Wayne Township Public Schools
Kathryn Licwinko
Teacher Technology Coordinator
Wayne Township Public Schools
Donna Reichman
Assistant Superintendent
Wayne Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
edWeb.com
Session 19
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #20/#21/#22
Surviving a Cyber-Attack: Our Experiences
Join us as we share our experiences with a cyber-attack last summer. We will cover the initial discovery and engaging our insurance carrier, the days afterwards as we executed our recovery plan, and the weeks afterwards as we dealt with the impact. Learn what was helpful as we found ourselves in the middle of the incident and what lessons we took from the incident. We hope that you can benefit from our experience and be better prepared to minimize the impact of an attack.
Presenters:
Steven Creel
Director of Technology
Cinnaminson Township Public Schools
Stephen Cappello
Superintendent of Schools
Cinnaminson Township Public Schools
Tim Latimer
Vice President
The Barclay Group
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://cinn.link/techspo-2023-slides
EXHIBIT HALL ACTIVITIES
11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Box Lunches
Location: Wildwood #11/#16
Refreshments
Prizes!
Your TECHSPO® 2023 badge is your ticket for a box lunch.
No competing sessions or activities at this time.
11:30 am – 1:30 pm
NJASA Executive Committee Meeting
Location: Avalon /#23/#24/#25/#26
(This is a closed meeting for Committee Members and invited guests)
Group Sessions
Session 1
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #6/#7
TA to Teachers- Fostering Future Educators
In this session, we will highlight the TA to Teachers Program that is hosted in partnership between the Morris-Union Jointure Commission and Ramapo College of New Jersey. This ground-breaking program allows teaching assistants (instructional aides) to pursue their teaching certification and subsequent MA in Special Education while remaining employed by their district and leveraging their professional assignments as credit toward their degree completion. Hosted by the MUJC and accredited by RCNJ, this program is transforming the path for TAs by providing them with an affordable, attainable, accessible road to certification.
Presenters:
Dr. Janet Fike
Superintendent
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
NJASA Immediate Past President
Christine Lion-Bailey
Director of Technology & Innovation | Principal
Morris Plains School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
bit.ly/CLBresources
Session 2
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #1/#2
PD LIFT: The Future of Professional Development - How to Improve the PD Culture in Your Building or District Using Online, Blended, and In Person Learning
Quality Professional Development, sharing, collaboration, and feedback needs to be at the forefront of continuous growth and improvement for teachers. Through the PD LIFT (Learning and Innovation From Teachers) model, participants will learn how to incorporate innovative PD, feedback and growth strategies to help move all teachers forward!
Participants will learn how to design PD programs that capitalize on technology to provide on-demand, asynchronous, and live learning opportunities. Participants will learn how a simple tech based feedback system helps teachers to continuously improve. Participants will learn how to create and sustain a culture of PD to support all stakeholders.
Presenters:
Max Achtau
Principal
Hamilton Township School District
Rich Czyz
Principal
Hamilton Township School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
www.fouroclockfaculty.com
Session 3
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #10
Welcome to BCC, Digital Announcements by Middle School Scholars
After many years, Brigantine Community School has brought back the morning news program that is written and directed by our middle school scholars. Scholars Pre-K through 8th grade as well as members from the community, come together daily to create a daily broadcast for our morning announcements. Come see how we produce a daily morning program with the help and support of our entire community.
Presenters:
Jessica Estlow
Technology Teacher
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
Kelly Grimley
Art Teacher
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
Glenn Robbins
Superintendent
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jestlow@brigantineschools.org
Session 4
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #20/#21/#22
The Educational Technology Innovation Forum
Come and experience an interactive roundtable discussion led by a diverse group of Technology Coaches and District Leaders from around the state of NJ. Within the time period, attendees will rotate between small groups to have in depth discussions involving a wide variety of topics that affect everyone from school leadership to teachers, followed by a panel discussion where all questions will be answered by the expert panelists.
Presenters:
Evan Abramson
Director of Innovation and Technology
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
Lorena Dolan
School Principal
Livingston Public Schools
Cara Flodmand
Instructional Technology Coordinator
Hamilton Township School District
Amy Mele
District Technology Coach
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
eabramson@mujc.org
Session 5
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Wildwood #6/#7
Flexible Digital Solutions Keep Students Engaged in Rigorous Literacy Learning
Are you struggling to collectively interpret and use the data collected through the digital platforms available in Scholastic Literacy? During our first year of implementation, our biggest hurdle was figuring out how to connect and interpret all of the data collected from the NSGRA, Reading Measure, Reading Readiness and digital tools and then translating them into real-world next steps that could be communicated to teachers during data meetings/goal setting. This session will provide a general overview of how to use digital performance data to plan PD, target instructional practices and identify resources supporting a multi-tiered system of support.
Presenters:
Chantal Gudzak
Supervisor of English Language Arts (Grades K-5)
Long Branch Public Schools
Julie Guadalupe Barbella
Account Executive
Scholastic Education
Dr. Karen Burke
SVP Education
Scholastic Education
Session 6
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #17
The Paperless Office
Burlington Township School District, Liz Scott, Director of Human Resources and Heather Garfield, Office Manager are constantly using their combined superpowers to create a paperless office which has boosted productivity and efficiency while also saving money and making work processes easier and more convenient as digital documents can be easily shared between users. This presentation will allow attendees to receive information on ways to streamline the hiring and onboarding process and eliminate the need for paper files.
Presenters:
Heather Garfield
Office Manager
Burlington Township School District
Liz Scott
Director of Human Resources & Community Relations
Burlington Township School District
Jen Andre
Educational Sales Executive
Frontline Education
Jason Kunkle
Educational Sales Executive
Frontline Education
Session 7
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Wildwood #5
Workflows and Software for Collaborative and Student-Centered Master Schedule Development
Master scheduling is a delicate balance between student needs, District curriculum, room type and use of space, use of time, and staff capability. Together with the holistic, are important minutiae details of ensuring no room or roster conflicts. Finding success when working through big picture, and fine detail complexity together, requires close collaboration between various stakeholders, using readily available software tools, while following a workflow-based approach.
Learn how North Warren Regional School District uses software tools, and a collaborative workflow approach to build a master schedule that is ready before summer, meets student needs, and satisfies the constraints of the facility, and staffing.
Presenters:
Jeff Louw
Director of Instructional Technology
North Warren Regional School District
Carie Norcross-Murphy
Acting Principal
North Warren Regional High School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Will be provided at presentation.
Session 8
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #9
Online Simulations for Engaging and Innovative DEIB Teacher PD
In this session, participants will engage in small groups in an online Simulation where they will play a teacher in a 3rd Grade Classroom and be challenged with a DEIB Situation. They will have to make decisions and address challenges such as: How to support a curriculum that teaches diversity of families, while supporting the individual desires of families? How to support students’ interest in the curriculum while considering school policies? How can you build allyship among families and colleagues while respecting differences? These challenges have tradeoffs that they will have to deal with and hear different perspectives in their small group work.
Presenter:
Ken Spero
President & Founder
SchoolSims
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
www.schoolsims.com
Session 9
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #3/#4
MTSS: How a Small District Took on the Task of Revamping an Outdated I&RS Model to a Data and Student-Centered MTSS Model
This session will outline the process a small district took in revamping an outdated I&RS model to create a student-centered MTSS model that includes both tiered supports and enrichment, individualized academic instruction, and a WINN schedule. We will discuss how the integration of technology, such as LinkIt!, benchmark assessments, and Intervention Manager software helped the stakeholders to collect data that allows for instruction to more directly meet students’ specific needs. Subsequently, with the addition of intuitive and adaptive student programs and apps, we are seeing increases in our students’ confidence and abilities despite the last nontraditional years of school.
Presenters:
Caryn Bennington
Gifted and Talented
Spring Lake Heights Elementary School
Danielle Holter
Assistant Principal/Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Spring Lake Heights Elementary School
Shannon Sakelaris
Interventionist, Intervention Coordinator
Spring Lake Heights Elementary School
John Spalthoff
Superintendent/Principal
Spring Lake Heights Elementary School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
ssakelaris@slheights.org; cbennington@slheights.org
Session 10
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #12
Democratizing Data for Peak Professional Engagement
When leaders develop a plan for progress they are consistently met with a host of reactive feelings and behaviors. Yet planning for those reactions to build motivation and ensure success is often limited. In this session, leaders will learn to spark the investigative nature in their teams by providing access to data that peaks curiosity. Participants will learn to build 'initiative momentum' through an entanglement with relevant data that provides a sense of meaning and purpose.
Presenters:
Sancha Gray
SVP of EEI
Kean University
Michael Salvatore
SVP of Administration
Kean University
Brian Zychowski
VP of EEI:
Kean University
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
msalvato@kean.edu
Session 11
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #14
Leveraging the Power of Google Workspace Apps for Administrators: Improving Efficiency and Managing Day-to-Day Routines
Join central office and building-based administrators from the Mendham Borough School District for this interactive session and learn a variety of strategies to make day-to-day administrative tasks more efficient. Through the creative implementation of Google Workspace apps, including Classroom, Calendar, and Forms, administrators can save time, increase organization, centralize communication, and streamline systems. The tips and tricks presented do not require advanced level knowledge of Workspace; instead will leave you saying, “Why didn’t I think of that?!” Leave with a new idea (or two) to implement when you return to your district on Monday.
Presenters:
Mary Joy Falcone
Technology Coordinator
Mendham Borough School District
Dr. Mitzi Morillo
Superintendent
Mendham Borough School District
Aimee Toth
Principal, Mountain View Middle School
Mendham Borough School District
Session 12
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #18/#19
Explore, Play, Share! - 25 Tools for Personalized Learning
Raise your hand if you're overwhelmed with the multitude of edtech tools out there! Which would be the best to personalize learning? Check out a portal of tools, then explore and evaluate them in Jigsaw teams! Come to join in some fun, collaborative learning!
Presenters:
Lee Nittel
Superintendent
Mine Hill School District
Jamie Saponaro
Director of Educational Success
Classlink
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://difftech.weebly.com/support-with-technology.html
Session 13
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Wildwood #8/#9
Create a More Inclusive Classroom with Microsoft Learning Tools
Every student is unique with different strengths and abilities. Microsoft provides learning tools to help personalize learning experiences, thus empowering students to access and engage with the content being taught. Accessibility tools such as Immersive Reader, Read Aloud, Dictation, and Translator give students inclusive tools to access reading and writing in ways that meet diverse needs. Products such as Teams, Word, and OneNote Notebook not only allow for collaboration with peers, but also allow students and educators to organize their workflow. We will examine these tools through the eyes of a classroom teacher and how they enhance student performance.
Presenters:
Cathy Famelio
Science Teacher
Monmouth Regional High School District
Theodore Ragavas
Supervisor of IT
Monmouth Regional High School District
Session 14
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #5/#11
Deconstructing Uvalde: Leveraging Technology to Improve Your School Safety Ecosystem
Our workshop is designed to assist school leaders with understanding how best to leverage technology to create safer school environments. We’ll explore challenges schools face when dealing with a threat like an active shooter and why the basic legal requirements do not go far enough to fully protect our schools. Referencing the events that took place in Uvalde, Texas as a case study, we’ll break down the vulnerabilities that led to loss of life. We’ll offer insights schools need to prevent tragedies from happening through examining the components that comprise a comprehensive safety ecosystem. Those include emergency notification, phone and paging systems, video surveillance, and outside door monitoring.
Presenters:
Michael Jordan
Superintendent
Maywood Public Schools
Paul Jenne
Account Director & School Safety Advisor
Eastern DataComm
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://easterndatacomm.com/events-and-media/industry-events/
Session 15
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #15
SiLAS and SEL Combined: A Recipe for Success
It is no secret that students are drawn to video games and social media. In addition, social-emotional learning (SEL) and SEL skills are vital for academic, social, and life success. To be sure, the most effective learning occurs when students are engaged, motivated, and become active participants in the learning process. So why not combine technology and SEL? Join us as we explore the rationale, framework, and nuances of a simple and motivating technology that can be used to teach students at all levels to develop important SEL skills. We will illustrate how students at Bright Beginnings Learning Center have benefited from the SiLAS program, its breadth, simplicity, and efficacy.
Presenters:
Noa Elbaum
Speech Language Specialist
Educational Services Commission of NJ
Ettie Luban
Speech Language Specialist
Educational Services Commission of NJ
Gary Molenaar
Assistant Superintedent
Educational Services Commission of NJ
Chris Duddick
CEO
SiLAS Solutions
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
www.escnj.us
Session 16
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #16
Let's Play to Learn!
Are you currently using platforms such as Kahoot, Quizlet, Flippity, Nearpod, Classkick, Wordwall etc., but would like to find ways to reinvent the use of these platforms and increase student engagement? We have implemented ways to make them “fresh” and will be sharing these strategies with you. We will show variations of some technology platforms you are already using and introduce some platforms that may be new to you! This presentation will be highly interactive using both high-tech and low-tech activities. Make sure to bring your devices!
Presenters:
Jen Edson
Teacher
Franklin Lakes School District
Tania Zaporoshan
Teacher
Franklin Lakes School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jedson@franklinlakes.k12.nj.us
Session 17
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Avalon #13
Transform Your Teaching with ChatGPT and DALL-E: Using Artificial Intelligence in the Modern Classroom
Are you ready to revolutionize the way you teach? Join us for an interactive workshop to learn how to use cutting-edge tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E to create dynamic and interactive learning experiences for your students. Discover the potential of AI, Web 3.0, and more to improve student outcomes and prepare them for the future. [Note: bring a Wi-Fi-enabled device to practice using the featured tools.]
Presenter:
Bruce Henecker
Director - Office of Planning, Research, and Development
Freehold Regional High School District
Education Technology Leader and Trainer/Ed Tech Paradigms, LLC
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://www.edtechparadigms.com
Session 18
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Wildwood #3/#4
How To Be a Digital Tools & Data Superhero
Have you ever wanted to be a Digital Tools & Data Superhero? Data and digital tools are two of the most important resources we have as educators to meet the individual needs of our students. It is essential to have a systems approach to both data and digital tools; you can’t leave these two processes to chance. When you leave these plans to chance, there is the distinct chance the outcome you seek will never come to be. This session will leave you with real takeaways that will enable you to become a Digital Tools & Data Superhero at the district, school, teacher, and student level. You are guaranteed to leave this session with real ways you can ensure your plans are effective, progressive, and comprehensive.
Presenters:
Michael Ballone
Assistant Superintendent
Marlboro Township Public Schools
Morgan Gross
Director of Instructional Technology
Marlboro Township Public Schools
Dr. Eric M. Hibbs
Superintendent
Marlboro Township Public Schools
Session 19
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Wildwood #1/#2
Augmented Reality
With augmented reality, you and your students can experience the world in new ways that would be impossible or impractical otherwise. This session highlights how teachers can easily bring augmented reality apps into existing lessons to spark curiosity and enhance understanding across subject areas, from mathematics and science to history and the arts.
Presenters:
Kim Kefalas
Elementary Technology Teacher, Vanguard
Linden Public Schools
Leah Push
Elementary Technology Teacher, Vanguard
Linden Public Schools
Lauren Basselini
Education Leadership Executive
Apple
Kelly Calabrese
Account Executive
Apple
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
lbasselini@apple.com
Take A Break!
2:30 pm - 2:45 pm
Exhibit Hall Refreshment Break
Location: Wildwood #11/#16
Group Sessions
Session 1
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #1/#2
Engagement Challenge: Encouraging Teachers to Use Thoughtful Tech Integration
The Engagement Challenge encourages the implementation of lessons infused with developmentally appropriate instructional technology. The month-long challenge features a choice board for teachers, built by the Instructional Technology Team and Curriculum & Instruction Supervisors, with a variety of lesson ideas and activities to engage students in the classroom. Teachers are given the chance to implement as many activities as they'd like throughout the month and submit them for a chance to win prizes and bragging rights! Come learn how you can implement something like this in your district.
Presenters:
Kaylee Baldwin
Instructional Technology Facilitator
Hamilton Township School District
Chris Corney-McGee
Instructional Technology Facilitator
Hamilton Township School District
Cara Flodmand
Instructional Technology Coordinator
Hamilton Township School District
Ashley Shanley
Instructional Technology Facilitator
Hamilton Township School District
Session 2
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #10
Cybersecurity at the Elementary Level
As cybersecurity is being introduced at the high school level, it is never too early to introduce our younger scholars to vocabulary and lessons pertaining to their digital world. This presentation focuses on cybersecurity for the K-8 level in mini-lessons created for both the STEM lab and technology class. Join us as we share what we have learned about implementing our cybersecurity curriculum with younger scholars.
Presenters:
Maureen Baldwin
STEM Teacher
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
Jessica Estlow
Technology Teacher
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
Glenn Robbins
Superintendent
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jestlow@brigantineschools.org
Session 3
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #6/#7
Practical Implementation of Technology in the Special Education Classroom
Instruction for Special Education classrooms has changed significantly over the last few years. Please join us to discuss various ways to incorporate technology into your special education classrooms while continuing to make progress with your students. Presenters will discuss electronic data collection, voice integration with interactive boards, and Esports as it relates to the special education classroom. Presenters will explain some of the pitfalls but also the successes of this incorporation of technology.
Presenters:
Jason Parenti
Business Administrator
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
Daniel Sanacore
Principal
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
Session 4
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Wildwood #3/#4
The Science of Math: Firing Up the Hippocampus to Accelerate Learning
Discover how applications of neuroscience-driven insights can enable students to learn math in a new way. Attendees will learn scientific approaches to how the brain learns, namely the hippocampus’ role in the perception-action cycle. Additionally, attendees will hear how this type of learning has been successfully implemented firsthand in Marlboro Township Public Schools. This process and its application to learning mathematics will empower teachers and set the foundation for students to create new knowledge while solving unfamiliar problems.
Presenters:
Dr. Eric Hibbs
Superintendent
Marlboro Township Public Schools
Nigel Nisbet
Vice President, Content Creation
MIND Research Institute
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
info@mindresearch.org
Session 5
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #13
Virtual Learning Platforms: Meeting World Language Graduation Requirements
As districts continue experiencing teacher shortages in World Language, learn how a suburban district with over 50% free and reduced lunch population and a 30% ESL population implemented a virtual solution fulfilling NJDOE high school graduation requirements Aligning expectations for high-quality virtual instruction continues to remain a priority as we navigate a new digital educational experience that is meeting the needs of students with state-certified educators, from core courses to foreign languages. Let's elevate your course offerings by learning how to leverage technology to meet the needs of your students, based on the compelling experience of a local district.
Presenters:
Dr. Joseph Cirillo
Superintendent
Palisades Park School District
Andrew Garcia
Principal
Palisades Park High School/
Palisades Park School District
Michael Koblan
Director of Information Systems
Proximity Learning
Dr. April Willis
Senior Manager of HR
Proximity Learning
Session 6
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #17
The Missing Link- ClassLink for School Districts
In this session our administration, along with our ClassLink account representative, will discuss the transition Morris Plains made to ClassLink. We will discuss the thought process behind making the decision to move from one platform to the other, the experience of making the transition, and the impactful learning/management outcomes of having ClassLink in place for all students and staff across the district. Additionally, we will explore how the data/reporting from ClassLink has informed our digital resource renewals and, in turn, resulted in improved fiscal responsibility. Transitioning to ClassLink has served as a time, money, and organization saver, leading it to be the missing link.
Presenters:
Christine Lion-Bailey
Director of Technology & Innovation | Principal
Morris Plains School District
Bevin Nittel
Senior Engagement Director
ClassLink
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
bit.ly/CLBresources
Session 7
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #12
Leveraging the Power of Technology to Implement an Effective Multi-Tiered System of Supports
Attendees will be shown how utilizing LinkIt's new platform Intervention Manager can support a streamlined and efficient system of multi-tiered system of support. Learn how to leverage technology to create Tier I documentation logs and fluid Intervention plans that are tied to student data and shareable amongst various stakeholders.
Presenters:
Jessica Alfone
Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
Middletown Township Public Schools
Chad Marcus
Chief Academic Officer
LinkIt
Session 8
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #3/#4
Technology in the Kindergarten Classroom
Integrating technology to enhance learning in your Kindergarten classroom. Learn how to find programs to align with your curriculum, utilize devices across subject areas, and strengthen the school-home connection through technology. We will share how to incorporate technology to find the right balance within the classroom alongside play and conventional learning. This session will explore specific, research-based, programs and how to employ them in your kindergarten classroom. Many of these programs are intuitive and meet students at their own level; they provide an alternate avenue for learning, increase technology skills, and foster autonomy and independence in the kindergarten classroom.
Presenters:
Kimberly Grigoli
Kindergarten Teacher/Monmouth County Teacher of the Year 2023
Spring Lake Heights School District
Paige Majka
Elementary School Teacher
Spring Lake Heights School District
John Spalthoff
Superintendent/Principal
Spring Lake Heights School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
kgrigoli@slheights.org
Session 9
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #9
Building a Safe School Community Through Microsoft Forms and Teams
Looking for a way to keep track of students location throughout the day or want to have a one stop shop for all visitors to check in? Want to create an online community within your district? Attend this session to learn more about Microsoft Forms and Teams!
Presenters:
Tiffany Correa
Supervisor of Special Projects
River Dell Regional School District
Brian Pepe
Principal
River Dell High School/
River Dell Regional School District
Session 10
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #14
Essential Cybersecurity Checklist
Everyone wants to secure their environment, but where to start! Join Michael Estrada, Chief Technology Officer of South Plainfield School District along with Scott Brousseau, Chief Technology Officer of PBG Networks as they define the steps needed to get your district protected. Checklist elements will include open-source and professional options to fit any districts budget!
Presenters:
Michael Estrada
Chief Technology Officer
South Plainfield School District
Scott Brousseau
Chief Technology Officer
PBG Networks
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
mestrada@spboe.org
Session 11
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #8
Supporting Tech Integration with Student Tech Teams
Since going remote in March of 2020, many districts and schools have seen an increase in technology devices and applications. Most students are utilizing devices for consumption, communication, collaboration, and creativity, but many are learning how to troubleshoot and navigate the technology. Come walk through how Millburn High School selected a team of students to support the technology use of students, teachers, and staff. We’ll walk through the application process, the types of projects the students manage, and what’s in the pipeline for the future.
Presenter:
Lisa Nydick
Technology Facilitator, Millburn High School
Millburn Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://www.edtechwithlisa.com/new/student-tech-teams
Session 12
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #15
Empowering Divergent Learners and Early Finishers
Have students who are always finished early, or seem a step ahead? This session will highlight activities and platforms that allow students to pursue learning in their own areas of interest and strengths. Incorporate rigorous, technology-rich choices to invigorate your divergent learners by allowing extended learning opportunities and challenges to students who have already mastered, or can quickly master, the basic curriculum. Give students more time to study concepts with greater depth, breadth, and complexity to demonstrate understanding with gamification, content-based challenges, and digital platforms that are fun, educational, and teacher-approved.
Presenter:
Maura Camasta
Teacher
Franklin Lakes School District
Session 13
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #18/#19
The 4 Cs of Esports: Community, Collaboration, Competition, and Creativity
Learn how esports is changing the lives of NJ students by creating safe spaces that foster community and competition. Follow the inspirational journey of Morris-Union Jointure Commission’s esports program from imagination to implementation. Understand how MUJC is leveraging esports to support the social, emotional and academic needs of students and engage a broader community of learners. Attendees will learn how to identify strategic partnerships and engage available resources to help create esports programs in any school, at any level, for any budget.
Presenters:
Evan Abramson
Director of Innovation and Technology
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
Chris Aviles
Teacher
Keyport Public Schools
President, Garden State Esports
Alyssa Miller
Edtech Specialist and Esports Coach
Middletown Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
eabramson@mujc.org
Session 14
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Wildwood #8/#9
Using eGlass to “Draw In” Students and Teachers
eGlass is an illuminated, transparent writing glass board with a built-in camera that captures a teacher’s face and writing in the same picture, boosting student engagement and fostering a social emotional connection with the class/audience. eGlass can be used live in the classroom or to record professional learning videos that teach a concept which can be shown in multiple learning spaces at students’ own pace or as a class. Join us as we share ways we have utilized eGlass and the many potential opportunities it can provide to support student engagement and connection, and utilize best instructional practices within your school or classroom.
Presenters:
Kathryn Lemerich
Math Coach
New Providence School District
Julie Spoerl
Elementary Technology Coordinator
New Providence School District
Session 15
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Wildwood #1/#2
A Social Media Strategy for Educators
More and more educators are using social media to build a professional identity and portfolio, connect with peers, and share critical content. In this presentation, Rutgers Professor Mary Chayko will provide an overview of the most useful social platforms for education professionals and explain how to use them productively, effectively, and strategically. Benefits and hazards of social media use, on the job and in everyday life, will be discussed.
Presenter:
Mary Chayko
Professor
Rutgers University
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
mary.chayko@rutgers.edu
Session 16
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #20/#21/#22
NJ District Technology Leadership Roundtable
Round table discussion for Technology leaders around the state to discuss technology issues, what's new in technology and more.
Presenters:
Theodore Ragavas
Technology Supervisor
Monmouth Regional High School
Jason Smith
Technology Technician
Monmouth Regional High School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://www.monmouthregional.net/Page/2703
Session 17
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Wildwood #6/#7
A Model for Flexible, Personalized PD and Tech Coaching
Come learn about Hillsborough's model for Professional Development and Tech Coaching. Our flexible, peer-to-peer training program, now in its 10th year, has undergone some drastic changes to keep up with changing district goals and expectations for effective teaching and learning. This program, now paired with ongoing access to tech coaches, has allowed teachers to thrive during the pandemic and beyond.
Presenters:
Joel Handler
Director of Technology
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
Todd MacDonald
Technology Integration Coordinator
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jhandler@htps.us
Session 18
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Avalon #16
Journalistic Writing and Publishing for a Worldwide Audience
In a time when claims of Fake News pervade the internet and print publications are dwindling, how can schools teach meaningful journalism? 2022-2023 Hunterdon County Teacher of the Year, Brian Smith, and English Supervisor, Tara Civitillo, share how Del Val reinvigorated a dying school paper to become an award-winning digital publication. They will provide resources for finding webhosting sites that fit your school's budget, fundraising strategies, branding, social media techniques and competition opportunities. The art of journalism and journalistic integrity are too important to the American identity to be lost, and digitizing the news is its future.
Presenters:
Tara Civitillo
English Supervisor
Delaware Valley Regional High School District
Scott McKinney
Superintendent
Delaware Valley Regional High School District
Brian Smith
Journalism Teacher
Delaware Valley Regional High School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
sno.dvrhs.org
Session 19
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Wildwood #5
The Evolving Cyber Threat Landscape & Adapting to Cyber Warfare
Geo-Political events in the last year have had a major impact on the current cyber threat landscape. Organizations updated their cyber security defenses in response to impacts from Covid-19; they need to evolve once again.
Discover how not only the Tactics Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) of the threat actors have changed, but also how their motivation has changed. Understand how your Information technology systems are being attacked and how to adapt your current defenses in the Data Center, in the Cloud, on the road, or wherever your assets are.
Presenters:
Jeremy Schwarz
Information Technology Manager
Somerset Hills School District
Howard Adler
President
Pascack Data Services, Inc.
John Phil
Senior Solutions Architect
Sonicwall Corporation
EXHIBIT HALL!
3:45 pm - 4:15 pm
Networking and Refreshments (cash bar)
Location: Wildwood #11/#16
Grand Prize Drawing!
(You must be present to win)
RECEPTION
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
The Pool
(On the left if facing the Conference Center)
Friday, January 27, 2023
Conference Registration
7:30 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Wildwood Ballroom Registration Desk
Exhibit Hours
8:00 am – 11:45am
Exhibit Hall Opens!
8:00 am
Continental Breakfast
Location: Wildwood #11/#16
General Session
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Location: Avalon #5/#11
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Adam Phyall
Dr. Adam Phyall is a former high school science teacher and currently serving as the Director of Professional Learning for All4Ed's Future Ready Schools network. He recently left his position as the Director of Technology and Media Services for Newton County School System in Covington, GA. Since Adam got his first laptop in college, he has been hooked on the fantastic things that technology can add. Early in his teaching career, Adam began having students create videos and podcasts to explain advanced science concepts. Once Adam saw the impact that technology had on learning in his classroom, he began to share his activities and strategies with his peers. This lead to Dr. Phyall working as a Building Instructional Technology Leader, later as a Technology Facilitator, and now serving as a Director of Technology & Media Services.
Throughout his professional career, Dr. Phyall worked extensively with Title I and Urban schools to improve technology integration with economically disadvantaged students. He has planned and developed Mobile Learning plans for school districts in Georgia and Missouri that have led to 1:1 device initiatives. His philosophy on teaching is “if you’re having fun teaching it, then your students will have fun learning it.”
Take a Break!
10:15 am - 10:30 am
Exhibit Hall Refreshments/Networking
Location: Wildwood #11/#16
Group Sessions
Session 1
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #1/#2
Mr. Rogers Community Project
During the 2021-2022 school year Brigantine Community School, in coordination with our local chamber of commerce, launched the Mister Rogers Community Project. This was the perfect timing, with COVID-19 restrictions being lifted, scholars were encouraged to meet new people and explore their community. During this project, our scholars worked with a variety of business owners on technology-based projects in a real world environment. Scholars learned about the local economy, branding, marketing and promoting businesses on social media through use of creative outlets such as Canva and Google Suite and share their technology skills with the community.
Presenters:
Jessica Estlow
Technology Teacher
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
Glenn Robbins
Superintendent
Brigantine Public School District/
Brigantine Community School
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jestlow@brigantineschools.org
Session 2
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #10A
Strategies for Engaging Families in the Educational Program
This presentation will outline our efforts as an administrative team to engage families in our instructional program virtually, including a live course selection guidebook with curriculum guides, student programmatic testimonials on Flipgrid, an Assessment Hub involving our township library, multiple curricular resources pages, parent information sessions on sensitive curricular topics (i.e. Health curriculum/mandates), and more. Participants will learn how to develop transparent and parent-friendly digital communications, mostly using Google Apps for Education, to engage all families in an efficient manner.
Presenters:
Jessica Alfone
Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
Middletown Township Public Schools
John Kerrigan
District Director of Evaluation, Assessment, and Special Projects PK-12
Middletown Township Public Schools
Devyn Orozco
District Director of Educational Programs PK-12
Middletown Township Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
kerriganj@middletownk12.org
Session 3
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #9
Digital Portfolios as a Standards Based Grading Tool
This session provides tools and templates for guiding students to create a digital portfolio of their schoolwork. Increasingly, criteria beyond transcripts and GPAs are being used to evaluate students in the postsecondary world. Maintaining a digital portfolio empowers students to showcase their best work, document process, and foster a growth mindset. Using tools like Behance, Google Sites, and Flip, teachers can help students to create and use digital portfolios as part of proficiency-based grading and DEI initiatives.
Presenters:
Athena Maxwell
High School Teacher
Ridgewood Public Schools
John Wohner
High School Teacher
Ridgewood Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
amaxwell@ridgewood.k12.nj.us
Session 4
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #8
How Manalapan Englishtown School Combats Vaping and Simplifies Security Across Campus
Join Rich Oppegaard, Director of School Safety & Security, and Michael Vaccarino, Director of Information Systems at Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District for a joint presentation to learn how our presenters implemented a proactive security solution for their campus which enables the team to increase efficiency with: Sensor and camera integration for vape detection - Ease of use to search for footage with motion grids, heat maps, and people analytics - Reduced server and maintenance issues by eliminating NVRs and DVRs
Presenters:
Rich Oppegaard
Director of School Safety & Security
Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District
Michael Vaccarino
Director of Information Systems
Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District
Cati Kilpatrick
Account Executive
Verkada
Joyce Zheng
Field Marketing
Verkada
Session 5
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #3/#4
If Netflix Can, So Can We: Building School Media Programs for Creativity and Community
We are teaching in a tremendous moment for digital media and video creation. Our students are growing up in a digital world eager to speak up, share, and connect. Schools can foster media programs that impact school culture in a powerful and unique way. School leadership can collaborate with media programs toward empowering students and fostering community. This discussion will center around why media programs are so important for schools, and how schools can utilize educational technology, student creativity, and progressive educators to create unique opportunities for 21st century learning experiences.
Presenters:
William Andresen
Social Studies/Film Teacher
Park Ridge High School/
Park Ridge School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1cegDGd8e9KWJqQrIa14oq5TvHRVt7rkf_-BDNuSM1Ok/edit?usp=sharing
Session 6
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #12
Get Proactive About School Security
To achieve safety in schools, you must have a strong network infrastructure, a physical security solution capable of surveillance and permission-based access and AI integration for search and analytics. Moreover, you need tools to ensure compliance with Alyssa's Law. Learn best practices on these things and more.
Presenters:
Mark Rudnick
Manager of Instructional and Infrastructure Technology
Ewing Township Board of Education
Lauren Cassel
Account Manager
Millennium Communications Group, Inc.
Mike Sferrazza
Account Manager
Millennium Commnications Group, Inc.
Session 7
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #6/#7
"Meet the micro:bit: Using a Low-Cost, Codeable Computer Across the Curriculum" (Presented by the Long Beach Island Grade School STEAM Club Students)
Are you looking to inspire your students' creativity and collaboration skills through physical computing activities? This presentation will feature a hands-on exploration of the micro:bit, a low-cost, microcomputer that can be programmed and coded to design games and create fun projects. Discover innovative uses of this pocket-sized computer for integrating students' digital skills in computational thinking and programming with classroom lessons.
Presenters:
Dr. Peter Kopack
Superintendent
Long Beach Island Consolidated School District
Cathy McBride
Science Teacher
Long Beach Island Consolidated School District
Shelley Smith
Technology Teacher/Coordinator
Long Beach Island Consolidated School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
www.lbischools.org
Session 8
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #18/#19
Introducing 3D Printing and Design for Any Classroom
The attendees will be able to introduce 3D printing in ANY upper elementary classroom without any previous experience! From free CAD software (Tinkercad) to how to print and troubleshoot, you'll have the skills needed to implement your own 3D printing program. Attendees will be able to turn key 3D printing lessons we present into their classroom using Chromebooks and Tinkercad. They will feel confident in using a 3D printer with students and understand why students are so excited about bringing their designs to life.
Presenters:
Matt Bokey
Technology
Little Egg Harbor School District
Megan Costello
STEAM Teacher
Little Egg Harbor School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
mbokey@lehsd.org
Session 9
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #13
Level Up with Gaming Into Your Lessons
Are your students not as engaged as you would like? Have you requested IT to block certain video games? This is the session for you! Our students learn and thrive presently in a digital-based world. Why not compromise and meet in the middle and integrate that into the classroom setting? We joined both of those worlds by incorporating Minecraft Edu into our curriculum to meet learning outcomes set forth by teachers. While students are learning the standards across content, they collaborate in an interactive way by creating in virtual environments. Game-based learning is the way to level-up and engage students by sparking their learning curiosity and creativity. Additionally, it provides a platform to learn skills like communication, delegation and teamwork. Come learn how to roll this out in your school and go one step further by pushing it competitively after school in an in-house Esports league.
Presenters:
Keri Hennessy-Wilson
EdTech Innovation Coach
Asbury Park Public Schools
Perry Medina
Principal
Asbury Park Public Schools
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
hennessy-wilsonk@apboe.org
Session 10
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #14
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) as a Tool for Invoking Critical Thinking About Student Nutritional Choices
Are your students being taught to think critically about how their nutritional choices affect their cognitive, affective, and physiological domains? This session will demonstrate how Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) can give accurate information about one’s dietary and exercise choices and how this affects levels of glucose in the blood. With so many autoimmune issues tied to hyperinsulinemia, students should be encouraged to analyze accurate data beyond the limits of MyPlate and the Food Guide Pyramid. Learn how to incorporate CGMs into your Health and Wellness programs to positively impact student outcomes over the span of their lifetime.
Presenters:
Victoria Rozema
Guidance Counselor
Harrington Park School District
Mark S. Torrie
Health and Physical Education Teacher
Harrington Park School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://marktorrie.weebly.com/
Session 11
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #15
Using Video to Highlight and Enhance Classroom Projects (Pre-K to 12)
Videos are a great way to highlight and enhance the work being done in your classrooms. In this session we will share many of the video projects and ideas that we have used in our district. We will also discuss how we film, edit, and produce final videos to share with our community. From creating a lesson library to differentiating instruction for all learners, videos are a dynamic way to enhance instruction and communicate clearly with all stakeholders.
Presenters:
James Doyle
Educational Technology Teaching Specialist
Township of Ocean School District
Mike Huston
Media Specialist/Educational Technology Teaching Specialist
Township of Ocean School District
Ryan Pringle
Educational Technology Teaching Specialist
Township of Ocean School District
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
rpringle@oceanschools.org
Session 12
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #16
Teach Coding Without the Code
Students, as young as 1st grade can be introduced to coding concepts way before they ever maneuver their first block of code. In the session, we will show you how to teach coding concepts without the actual code! We will be demonstrating different techniques to get students to think like programmers so they can understand the functions behind writing code. With these basic techniques, students should be able to dive into actual coding with more confidence and better understanding of what code should do.
Presenters:
Paulette Salomon
Supervisor of Educational Technology
East Orange School District
Adam Fragale
Curriculum and Professional Development Support Specialist
Teq, Inc.
Matthew Thaxter
Director of eLearning
Teq, Inc
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
matthewthaxter@teq.com
Session 13
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Location: Avalon #17
Threat Assessment Through Safegaurding
Is the inevitable preventable? When it comes to threat assessment, “Safeguarding” allows school districts to mitigate risk by initiating a case management system of proactive supports for students demonstrating at-risk behaviors. With Safeguarding, New Jersey school districts can:
- Successfully launch a Behavioral Threat Assessment System
- Implement systemwide private and secure case management software
- Access real-time disaggregated data
- Guarantee safety and support for students and staff
- Support the wellness and mental health needs of students, both victims and perpetrators
Safeguarding moves schools from high-stress crisis response to proactive case management, making the inevitable preventable.
Presenters:
David Cittadino
Superintendent
Old Bridge Public Schools
Mike Glanville
Chief Safeguarding Officer
The Safeguarding Company
Curtis Linton
Executive Director
The Safeguarding Company
The Website where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
www.thesafeguardingcompany.com/NJ
11:45 am
Box Lunches will be available for the ride home! (One per person please!)
Location: Wildwood Pre-Function Area
Your TECHSPO® 2023 badge is your ticket for a box lunch.
GRAND PRIZE DRAWING!
11:45 am
You Must Be Present to Win!
Location: Wildwood Ballroom
Registration Desk
