Presentations at NASB 2013 State Conference
The annual Nebraska Association of School Boards Conference was held on November 21-22. Several students and staff from District 145 served as presenters.
Waverly High School Science teachers Laura Turner and Pam Wendel shared their instructional practices to a group of more than fifty school board members and superintendents from across the state. Their session was entitled "Flipping the High School Science Classroom." A summary of the presentation was how to differentiate instructional practices for students; attendees learned how science teachers at Waverly High School have designed a layered curriculum to meet the needs of students and “flipped” the classroom to place more responsibility for learning upon the students. The instructional strategies have allowed teachers to more effectively use the time they have in the classroom and spend more time facilitating learning activities. These practices have increased student engagement, decreased off-task behaviors, and deepened student understanding of science concepts. The use of technology expands learning opportunities for students outside the traditional classroom setting.
During the technology showcase, students from various school districts across the state were able to share how technology is integrated into their classroom and is enhancing how students are learning. Waverly students talked to many conference attendees about "Google Documents" and other applications that allow students to access information and materials, collaborate with teachers and their peers, even when they are not in school. They are able to use these tools to access information in a timely manner, and when it best suits their schedule.
Technology director, Mr. Lucas Bingham, was part of a panel of technology personnel, including Dr. Herr from Educational Service Unit #6, and technology directors from Norris and York Public Schools.
This panel shared information about how to integrate technology into the classroom, and how districts can utilize the devices (smart phones, handheld electronic devices) that many students already have. They shared how policies and practices to teach students to use these devices and to learn digital citizenship practices are more advantageous than placing a barrier between students and the technology they are accustomed to using outside of the school day.
It was a great learning experience for our students and staff, as well as an opportunity to share practices in our district with others to enhance the learning that occurs in Nebraska.
