Conference Sessions
Seminar topics will include language arts and literacy, math and science education, character education, technology integration in the classroom, and much, much more!



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Personal Finance for students
Personal Finance for young students is a passion of mine. This is a vital class that should be offered in all schools. I would propose teaching the basics that can last a lifetime: savings/checking accounts, credit cards, credit scores, basic investing.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Mr. Peter Rosica - Adjunct Professor , Rutgers University Audience: Beginner

Tech4less- The Web Design Edition
This session will cover free and low cost web design solutions.
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Mr. Phil Polsinelli - Assistant director , SRI/ETTC
SubCategory: Advanced Technology
Audience: All are welcome

Distance Learning
Videoconferencing Based Distance Learning Resources in NJ and Beyond
The Garden State Distance Learning Consortiums (GSDLC) mission is to create a learning network, focused on expanding classroom experiences for the educational community at large through an association of schools and affiliates, using the mediums of teleconferencing and web based collaboration tools. This session will provide an overview of the content available in New Jersey and the region available via Teleconferencing. Presenters from the actual content sites will be present to review their programs. Issues such as technical requirements, classroom infusion, lesson planning, and other topics will be covered.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Mr. Anthony DePrince - Project Coordinator , Camden County Technical Schools
SubCategory: Distance Learning
Audience: All are welcome

Wimba through Web 2.0 Lesson Applications
Come experience a virtual learning session that demonstrates Web 2.0 tool applications in K-12 lessons. Session attendees will: "Apply instructional systems design model to Web2.0 exploration "Demonstrate online assessment techniques using collaborative tools "Identify a framework for incorporating Web2.0 into lesson plans with linkage to 21st Century Learning Skills and NJ Core Curriculum Content Standards "Demonstrate how to boost student engagement and interaction by using Web2.0 tools "Transfer sample products to other environments Through Blackboard and Wimba Live Classroom, we tour excerpts of these Web2.0 instructional applications that were developed as part of a blended learning course in the Master of Arts in Instructional Technology program offered by The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. Results are shared with video segments of authentic tryouts on digital native audiences. Surprises and challenges are described for those who wish to adopt similar strategies for analysis and educational application of Web2.0 tools that pop up daily.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Dr. Amy Ackerman - Assistant Professor, Instructional Technology , School of Education, The Richard Stockton College
Kate Juliani - Technical Assistant , School of Education, The Richard Stockton College
SubCategory: Distance Learning
Audience: All are welcome

Language Arts
Around the World in 80 Books
Participants (grades K to 6) will learn how to teach critical thinking and life skills through the incorporation of multi-cultural picture books in the classroom. This will be accomplished through an examination of online resources and the processes which allow children to become active participants in the book sharing experience. As a result of attending this presentation, participants will be able to " Access student schema in order to create hooks for hanging new learning; " Increase student motivation by creating a purpose for learning; " Select books which emphasize learning and innovation skills such as creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, and communication; " Select books which emphasize life and career skills such as initiative, accountability, leadership, and responsibility; " Locate resources for maximizing the value of the shared reading experience.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Mr. Keith Schoch - Reading/Language Arts Teacher , Bedminster Township School
SubCategory: Language Arts
Audience: All are welcome

Math / Science
Introduction to Google Sketchup
Come learn the basics to start using Google Sketchup with your students. It is a free program that lets you create 3-D objects which can be shared. Google Sketchup can be integrated into math, science, social studies, art or technology education. Our students love this program and have thanked us for introducing it to them.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Miss Carla Hockenbury - Technology Facilitator , William Davies Middle School
SubCategory: Multidisciplinary Strategies / Special Needs
Audience: Beginner

Teaching Geometry with the Geometer's Sketchpad
An introduction to the Geometer's Sketchpad, a versatile software that can be successfully used both to teach geometry and to prepare handouts. No previous knowledge of the software is required.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Dr. Juan Tolosa - Professor of Mathematics , richard stockton college of new jersey
SubCategory: Math

Multidisciplinary Strategies / Special Needs
21st century supports for struggling readers
Come join us to learn about tools and strategies to support students struggling in the area of reading. Participants will experience a wide range of tools from low tech (such as e-text readers) to high tech (such as scan and read tools like Kurzweil 3000). We will also explore the innovative use of commercial technology tools, such as the iPOD, Amazon Kindle and Barnes and Noble Nook, to support individuals. Participants will be provided with resources and examples of many of the tools used during the session.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Mr. Mike Marotta - Assistant Director , Assistive Technology Services, Advancing Opportuni
SubCategory: Language Arts

Cross- Curricular Activities
This is a great workshop for subject Area teachers other than the Language Arts teachers. Have you ever wondered what activities can you do to support the Language Arts teacher? We have a great information sharing workshop to help you!
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Ms. Dawn Bell - Classroom Teacher , Wallace Middle School
Kimberly Rone-Foster - Classroom Teacher , Wallace Middle School
SubCategory: Other
Audience: All are welcome

Effective Strategies of 21st Century Teachers in a 21st Century Learning Environment
In this workshop, we will examine a typical 21st Century Learner and discuss why 21st Century skills are important. A foundation for understanding the 21st Century learning movement will be presented and the six key elements of 21st Century learning that have been identified by the Partnership for 21st Century Learning will be identified and explored in detail. Participants will walk away with a variety of successful strategies, software and websites that support each of the six key elements and reinforce their 21st Century teaching.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Mrs. Susan Ross - technology teacher , Middle Township Middle School
SubCategory: Multidisciplinary Strategies / Special Needs

Identifying and Responding to Dating Violence
Many teachers and counselors witness dating violence and are unsure how to respond. This workshop will help educators to identify and appropriately respond to dating violence, as well as demonstrate programming options for the discussion and prevention of dating violence. Healthy relationships are what any school would want for their students as they enter adolescence and adulthood.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Ms. Erin O'Hanlon - Coordinator of Community Initiatives , The Women's Center of Atlantic County
Michelle Duffy - Community Educator , The Women's Center of Atlantic County Audience: All are welcome

Intervention and Referral Services for the Classroom Teacher
Join us for an introduction to the Intervention and Referral Services process and learn the who, what , when, where, why, and how of requesting assistance from your I&RS team. Learn the key pieces of a successful I&RS program, and your role and responsibilities as a classroom teacher involved in the I&RS process. Discussion will include developing specific observable behaviors and SMART objectives, the problem-solving process, and choosing and implementing effective interventions. Grade levels: all
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Dr. David Dunlevy - Associate Director of Special Projects , SRI & ETTC
SubCategory: I&RS
Audience: All are welcome

Intervention and Referral Services for the Classroom Teacher
Join us for an introduction to the Intervention and Referral Services process and learn the who, what , when, where, why, and how of requesting assistance from your I&RS team. Learn the key pieces of a successful I&RS program, and your role and responsibilities as a classroom teacher involved in the I&RS process. Discussion will include developing specific observable behaviors and SMART objectives, the problem-solving process, and choosing and implementing effective interventions. Grade levels: all
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Dr. David Dunlevy - Associate Director of Special Projects , SRI & ETTC
SubCategory: I&RS
Audience: All are welcome

Managing Anxiety and Stress in the Classroom
Join us to learn techniques for managing anxiety and stress in the classroom-- in your students, and for yourself! Students today are exhibiting more and more anxiety and stress-- testing, increasing academic demands, social pressures, family situations. These stressors can affect student success-- academically, socially, and emotionally. We will discuss effective and creative strategies for helping your students (and yourself) deal effectively with anxiety and stress. Audience: any level
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Ms. Laura Pelouze - I&RS Program Coordinator , SRI & ETTC
SubCategory: I&RS

Strategies to Build Peace, Respect and Community Within Your Classroom
This highly interactive training session will teach participants strategies they can use to build peace, respect and community within their classroom. These include teaching students community building skills such as conflict resolution, holding regular classroom meetings, providing students with opportunities to take ownership of the classroom atmosphere and enabling students to support each other emotionlly, socially and academically. Participants will also have the opportunity to discuss the challenges and successes they have had in building peace, respect and community within their classrooms.
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Mr. Nate Terrell - Trainer/Consultant , Organizational Growth, Inc.
SubCategory: Character Education

Understanding and Responding Effectively to Challenging Student Behaviors
This highly interactive training will teach participants strategies to respond effectively to challenging student behaviors including how to stay calm and go "to the balcony," disarm disruptive students, get students to side with you against the problem, develop a "game plan" which promotes internal self-regulation and use restorative justice rather than punishment to promote behavioral change. Participants will also discuss their challenges and successes in dealing with challenging student behaviors.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Mr. Nate Terrell - Trainer/Consultant , Organizational Growth, Inc.
SubCategory: Character Education

Using Apple's iPodTouch with Multidisciplinary Strategies and Technology Integration
The workshop will focus on the introduction of Itouch technology in conjunction with Multidisciplinary Strategies in the classroom. The workshops will give educators the opportunity to become familiar with the newest technology for their students. The content and pace will serve to promote an environment of excitement and curious thinking. All questions are great questions, and we encourage our attendees to ask as many as possible. The following topics will be covered during the workshops 1. Overview of the important role iTunes plays in education. 2. Getting to know the iTouch interface and applications. 3. System settings for the iTouch. 4. How to use the iPod cart with iPods and iTouch units, and a computer. 5. How to use the Application icon for downloading application 6. How to podcast icon. for downloading podcast to the iTouch. 7. How to Download audio books to the iTouch. 8. How to use Wi-Fi on the iTouch. 9. What is Blue tooth, and How to use Blue tooth on the iTouch. 10. Downloading video podcast and applications to the iTouch. 11. Security controls for the iTouch. 12. How to Download Notes or warm-ups to the iTouch. 13. How to edit PowerPoints for use with the iTouch. 14. Positioning education icons by subject matter on the iTouch. 15. Using mobile me with the iTouch. 16. Introduction to the 3.0 software update.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Ms. Lawrence Perry - Technology Teacher , Lakeside Middle School Audience: All are welcome

Using Apple's iPodTouch with Multidisciplinary Strategies and Technology Integration
The workshop will focus on the introduction of Itouch technology in conjunction with Multidisciplinary Strategies in the classroom. The workshops will give educators the opportunity to become familiar with the newest technology for their students. The content and pace will serve to promote an environment of excitement and curious thinking. All questions are great questions, and we encourage our attendees to ask as many as possible. The following topics will be covered during the workshops 1. Overview of the important role iTunes plays in education. 2. Getting to know the iTouch interface and applications. 3. System settings for the iTouch. 4. How to use the iPod cart with iPods and iTouch units, and a computer. 5. How to use the Application icon for downloading application 6. How to podcast icon. for downloading podcast to the iTouch. 7. How to Download audio books to the iTouch. 8. How to use Wi-Fi on the iTouch. 9. What is Blue tooth, and How to use Blue tooth on the iTouch. 10. Downloading video podcast and applications to the iTouch. 11. Security controls for the iTouch. 12. How to Download Notes or warm-ups to the iTouch. 13. How to edit PowerPoints for use with the iTouch. 14. Positioning education icons by subject matter on the iTouch. 15. Using mobile me with the iTouch. 16. Introduction to the 3.0 software update.
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Ms. Lawrence Perry - Technology Teacher , Lakeside Middle School Audience: All are welcome

Using Apple's iPodTouch with Multidisciplinary Strategies and Technology Integration
The workshop will focus on the introduction of Itouch technology in conjunction with Multidisciplinary Strategies in the classroom. The workshops will give educators the opportunity to become familiar with the newest technology for their students. The content and pace will serve to promote an environment of excitement and curious thinking. All questions are great questions, and we encourage our attendees to ask as many as possible. The following topics will be covered during the workshops 1. Overview of the important role iTunes plays in education. 2. Getting to know the iTouch interface and applications. 3. System settings for the iTouch. 4. How to use the iPod cart with iPods and iTouch units, and a computer. 5. How to use the Application icon for downloading application 6. How to podcast icon. for downloading podcast to the iTouch. 7. How to Download audio books to the iTouch. 8. How to use Wi-Fi on the iTouch. 9. What is Blue tooth, and How to use Blue tooth on the iTouch. 10. Downloading video podcast and applications to the iTouch. 11. Security controls for the iTouch. 12. How to Download Notes or warm-ups to the iTouch. 13. How to edit PowerPoints for use with the iTouch. 14. Positioning education icons by subject matter on the iTouch. 15. Using mobile me with the iTouch. 16. Introduction to the 3.0 software update.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Mr. Lawrence Perry - Technology Teacher , Lakeside Middle School Audience: All are welcome

Technology Integration
21st Century Learning Starts with Student-Lead Projects
Technology is an essential learning tool, but one that needs to be in student hands. If we want to embrace 21st century learning, we need to embrace the technology tools our digital age students have come to expect. But as educators, we also need to focus this energy and excitement on the core curriculum. Come explore lessons, strategies, and student-created technology projects that promote a deeper understanding of content. Explore the tools used and learn strategies for implementing similar projects in your district. Goals/Objectives: Participants will leave the session with a new awareness of 21st century learning through images of 21st century classrooms, stories, examples of student work, ideas from the Partnership for 21st century skills. Participants will leave with ideas for making changes and developing visions to help students build 21st century skills in their schools and districts.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Ms. Denise MacDevette - NE Regional Manager , Tech4Learning
Lisa Easkow - Teacher , Millville Public Schools
SubCategory: Multidisciplinary Strategies / Special Needs

21st Century Learning Using Google Apps for Education
Google Apps for Education is a free suite of communication and collaboration tools. Come learn how sixth grade students in Middle Township Middle School have piloted the use of Google Apps for Education to promote 21st Century learning.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Mrs. Susan Ross - Technology Teacher , Middle Township Middle School
SubCategory: Advanced Technology

A SMARTer Way to Integrate Technology
Discover how technology can provide education solutions that help you improve student engagement and learning outcomes in your classrooms. In this hands-on session, participants will learn how to design interactive and engaging lessons incorporating the SMART Board with the document camera and student response system. Learn how to create interactive lessons, deliver student-centered learning activities and gauge student progress seamlessly.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Mrs. Carolyn Bennett - Education Consultant , Keyboard Consultants, Inc.
Joeseph Valentini - Certified Trainer , Keyboard Consultants, Inc.
SubCategory: Other
Audience: Intermediate

Building Early Literacy Skills with Pixie
The National Early Literacy Panel has identified 5 Elements of a Successful Reading Program - phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Come and learn how you and your students can use Pixie to build these skills through a variety of projects that range from skill-building activities to open-ended projects that require creativity, communication, and higher-order thinking skills. Millville Public Schools will showcase projects that their students have created using Pixie.
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Ms. Denise MacDevette - NE Regional Manager , Tech4Learning Inc.
Lisa Easkow - Millville Public Schools , Millville Schools Faculty TBD
SubCategory: Language Arts

Comic Life
Comic Life is a fun and easy to use cross-platform application. It integrates beautifully into a number of academic situations. This workshop will cover the basics of how to use this program. Examples of implementation and assessment applications will be shown.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Mr. Phil Polsinelli - Assitand Director , SRI/ETTC
SubCategory: Advanced Technology
Audience: All are welcome

M.O.U.S.E: Making Optimal Use of Software for Educators
This workshop is designed to communicate strategies for integrating technology across multiple content areas such as Math, Science, English, and History. Presenters will share lessons, ideas, technology tips, and experiences in a variety of content areas using a variety of applications such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, iMovie, Garageband, Ning, and Audacity. We will examine what it means to be a student and teacher in a technologically-driven age, how to make that transition into the classroom, as well as how to integrate multimedia components into lessons in order to engage students and develop their higher order thinking skills for the 21st century.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Dr. Ron Caro - Professor , the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey
Laura Birchler - Technology Teacher , Wildwood High School
Shannon Grace
SubCategory: Other
Audience: Intermediate

Media Literacy- A 21st Century Survival Skill
Video is a powerful form of communication. The ability to create and disseminate video for much of the 20th century was limited to a few. Computers and the Internet have made consumers of video into producers of video. Media Literacy is a key 21st century skill and this workshop will explore the basics in constructing a video, the tools available to produce videos and the principals of being a savvy video consumer. The presentation will cover simple cameras and editing suites like Windows Movie makers and advanced systems like Final Cut Pro. Incorporating media Literacy into a classroom can be rewarding for the teacher and the student. Creativity, cooperative learning, writing, public speaking and critical thinking are just some of the things that will encourage you to work with your students on being video producers. Understanding the basics of video production and its benefits and limitations will make you and your students better Media consumers.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Mr. Greg Wheeldon - Teacher TV/Media , Ocean City Schools
Steve Trauger - TV/Media Engineer , Ocean City
SubCategory: Other

Meeting the Needs of Every Child without Going Crazy!
Participants will be provided an overview and resources on the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework that "can help you turn the challenges posed by high standards and increasing learner diversity into opportunities to maximize learning for every student." Participants will learn about the framework and how it is implemented through the integration of educational technology, utilization of classroom instructional centers, collaborative and student-centered learning.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Ms. Linda Carmona-Bell - Educational Technology Specialist , NJ Department of Education
Joseph Seaman - Educational Technology Specialist , NJ Department of Education
SubCategory: Multidisciplinary Strategies / Special Needs
Audience: All are welcome

Multi-Media Muses: Using Interactive Writing Sites
Inspire even the most reluctant writers using online, interactive writing sites! Participants will learn how interactive writing tools can be used at every stage of the writing process. They will have the chance to observe each site's strengths in the areas of brainstorming, organizing information, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. Project suggestions and sample student work will also be shared for each site. As a result of attending this presentation, participants will be able to "Identify sites appropriate to the differing needs of students writers; "Increase student motivation through meaningful and authentic tasks; "Reflect upon existing practices in order to integrate the power of these technologies; "Locate resources that will assist in moving toward multi-media expressions.
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Mr. Keith Schoch - 6th Grade Reading/Language Arts Teacher , Bedminster School
SubCategory: Language Arts
Audience: All are welcome

SMART Notebook  The New and Improved Lesson Activity Toolkit 2.0
Visual Sound and SMART Technologies will show the new Notebook Lesson Activity Toolkit and why it is such an asset to SMART Board users  learn how to navigate and edit, check for updates and of course - tips and tricks. See examples of other teachers work.
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Ms. Colleen Schafer - Education Consultant - New Jersey , SMART Technologies
Corey Moss - Sr. Account Manager , Visual Sound

Smartboard Use in the Elementary Classroom
The workshop focuses on integrating the smartboard in the K-2 classroom. It will explain how to use your smartboard as a center and learning tool for you and your students. It will focus on the Language Arts, Writing, Technology, and Mathematics NJCCCS.
Session: 4
Presenter(s):
Mrs. Tara Pyfrin - Kindergarten Teacher , Galloway Community Charter School
SubCategory: Computer Skills
Audience: Beginner

Stationery Studio- Imagine the Possiblities
Stationery Studio is an easy-to-use writing tool that inspires even the most reluctant writer. It supports the writing process by hand and at the computer. Gets children writing! Provides curriculum-based activities and inspirational designs. Helps students create books, essays, reports, letters, and more. Boosts technology literacy skills. Fun and interactive workshop
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Mrs. Amie Nardone - Technology Teacher , Slaybaugh Elelmentary School
Kelly Basdekis Audience: All are welcome

The Technology Connection to Successful School/Community Activities
Explore ways students can participate in various community service projects using technology as a catalyst. Projects range from senior computing classes to interacting with community organizations and civic committees. Many school/community activities will be discussed and demonstrated.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Mr. Ted Krulikowski - Director , HELM Education Foundation
SubCategory: Other
Audience: All are welcome

Using Wikispaces as a collaboration tool in your classroom
Participants will create wiki project webpages to which they will add all sorts of multimedia (graphics, audio, video, and links to other webpages). Participants will practice more advanced wiki techniques, add Google forms, and make a talking avatar. By the end of the workshop, participants will have created their own wiki for classroom use and come away with concrete ideas for using a wiki with students.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Ms. Gyselle North - Teacher of French , Egg Harbor Township High School
SubCategory: World Languages
Audience: All are welcome

Web 2.0 Tools for Professional Learning
Collaboration tools that provide on-line document / application sharing, slide shows, team wikis, workspaces, sharing bookmarks and other information sharing functions are a useful toos for professional collaboration. In this workshop we will explore how web 2.0 tools can be utilized as an integral component of professional learning.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Mr. Darryl Ensminger - Assoc. Dir.Prof. Dev. , NJEA
SubCategory: Advanced Technology
Audience: Intermediate

What's New @ SMART  More Interactive Tools for the 21st Century Classroom
Visual Sound and SMART Technologies will demonstrate new tools for the classroom including the SMART Table, SMART Response PE, SMART Slate, SMART Notebook Math tools and more.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Ms. Colleen Schafer - Education Consultant - New Jersey , SMART Technologies
Corey Moss - Sr. Account Manager , Visual Sound
SubCategory: Other

What's So Good About Free?
Free standalone and web based tools will be discussed. Highlights include a focus on Massiveboard (a free interactive whiteboard presenting tool) and using Google forms in the classroom to gather data and perform automated evaluations.
Session: 1
Presenter(s):
Mr. Neils Clemenson - Technology Coordinator , Maurice River Township Elementary School
SubCategory: Computer Skills
Audience: All are welcome

When Your Classroom and Technology Collides
When Your Classroom and Technology Collides! This hands on workshop offers teachers in any subject area a way to integrate technology into their classes. This workshop focuses on integrating Photoshop, digital pictures, Publisher, WebPages, and more into your classroom. Grab your students' attention by incorporating them into the subject matter, create exciting signs by filling the subject title with pictures, and create web galleries to display all of the exciting work. These projects are great for your students to complete or for teachers to use as a classroom resource. Participants in this workshop will learn skills such as:Microsoft Publisher, photoshop layers, text, editing, tools, merging digital pictures together, and also using Microsoft FrontPage to create web galleries.
Session: 2
Presenter(s):
Mrs. Kristen Ferrari - Computer Teacher , Bunker Hill Middle School
Bethany Sandon - Art Teacher , Bunker Hill Middle School
SubCategory: Advanced Technology
Audience: Intermediate

When Your Classroom and Technology Collides
When Your Classroom and Technology Collides! This hands on workshop offers teachers in any subject area a way to integrate technology into their classes. This workshop focuses on integrating Photoshop, digital pictures, Publisher, WebPages, and more into your classroom. Grab your students' attention by incorporating them into the subject matter, create exciting signs by filling the subject title with pictures, and create web galleries to display all of the exciting work. These projects are great for your students to complete or for teachers to use as a classroom resource. Participants in this workshop will learn skills such as:Microsoft Publisher, photoshop layers, text, editing, tools, merging digital pictures together, and also using Microsoft FrontPage to create web galleries.
Session: 3
Presenter(s):
Mrs. Kristen Ferrari - Computer Teacher , Bunker Hill Middle School
Bethany Sandon - Art Teacher , Bunker Hill Middle School
SubCategory: Advanced Technology
Audience: Intermediate