Working with a laptop is part of the “Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works” module of the Colorado-based education think-tank, Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning or McREL.
Technology immersion and integration in classrooms is a pioneering initiative of the Public School System under the leadership of Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan and the Board of Education.
Andrew Kerr, a McREL’s consultant, is facilitating the training. He discusses “specific techniques” aimed at increasing the teacher’s knowledge and skills for working in “one-to-one laptop environment.”
The training is designed to complement the technology-based environment of PSS.
Meanwhile, in the MHS cafeteria, school principals, vice principals, program managers and education leaders underwent “Balanced Leadership 5” training with two McREL consultants, Greg Cameron and Mel Sussman.
“Assets are about nurturing and establishing alliances to assist everyone involved in student learning,” explains territory and freely associated states education grant coordinator Lynette Villagomez.
“Leadership,” according to Associate Education Commissioner for Instructional Service Jackie Quitugua, “is about recognizing the full potential of everyone and drawing out people’s skills.”
“Strategy execution,” explains MHS vice principal John Davis, is about “trying to work with what is already in place, and directly working with the principal.”
Koblerville Elementary School principal Rizalina Purungganan said she uses “communication and transparency” deliver her message to all stakeholders regarding student achievement.
Saipan Southern High School principal Jesse M. Tudela said “technology and processes” are about “improving student learning and achievements.”
McREL consultant Cameron agrees. “It is about tapping other skills that others may or may not have, to build a community of learners.”
Yesterday was the start of the weeklong PSS-wide professional development for school principals, vice principals, program managers, counselors, teachers and staff.
Close to about 30 sessions and activities are lined-up until Friday, and they will be conducted with presentations from PSS and McREL experts.
“Today is about reflecting human capital. This is not just about our school administrators and teachers, but it involves all our staff,” said Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan, referring to the ongoing effort to train and produce highly qualified and effective school personnel
Board of Education members Herman T. Guerrero of Saipan and Lucia Blanco-Maratita of Tinian also joined the training yesterday.
