Technology continues to change the way we teach, learn, work, and connect in our classrooms today.  The following skills are ones we focus on for today’s learners to ensure they are 21st century leaders for their successful futures:

• Basic Programming Language:  Our learners consume online content (for example, our Miller students rarely know what a card catalog is!).  We empower them in their daily learning to create their own multimedia online content (such as classroom blogs, etc.).  If you visit a site like Scratch (http://scratch.mit.edu/), you will find fun, easy, engaging ways to use programming language and to help your student create interactive stories, animations, games, and even music.
• Meaningful Projects:  We have our learners participate in projects throughout the school year that have impact on our community.  Although quite challenging at times, they learn important higher order thinking and critical problem solving skills in the process.  Check with your child’s teacher to learn what technology projects are forthcoming.
• Responsible Digital Citizens:  The Internet is not going away, so teaching our learners to navigate the online world safely and responsibly requires a practical approach from educators and parents; we must continue to work together.

As our students become increasingly mobile, we are also finding ways to integrate mobile devices (such as smartphones) in ways that benefit learning in the classroom.  Some of our Miller 5th grade teachers have started this process on certain projects (and with parent permission only).  Technology and learning are interchangeable really; we hope you join us on this exciting journey!

Note:  Just a reminder we are testing this week.  We appreciate your understanding, patience, and cooperation as we work for the benefit of all our learners.