2024VSTE Annual Conference

Schools were designed over a century ago to serve a generation of learners that existed before smartphones, before computers, before nuclear power ? even before women could vote. Although the dedicated educators of today work harder than ever before, they keep producing citizens that aren?t ready for a workforce that is a constant victim of change and disruption. Schools are the victims of the TTWWADI mindset (That?s The Way We?ve Always Done It). They must question and unthaw frozen mindsets and realign instructional practices to prepare their learners for the digital age. This hands-on, brains-on presentation explores the nature of TTWWADI and how disruptive innovation has led to the need for educational change. Participants will explore why today?s kids are different and how to access the new core learning attributes of the digital generations. We will also explore how learning must change to prepare learners who are fluent in the next-generation skills they require for success. Finally, we will investigate the new roles educators must embrace to reach their learners where they are at. After all, we want to prepare our learners for their futures and not our past.

Come and learn about creative laser cutter projects that range 2nd grade through 8th grade. The series of projects help students move from super beginner to quite adept. I will also talk about the design tools I use with the different age groups.

In this session, we'll demonstrate how schools can leverage generative AI to streamline social media management. Learn practical strategies for using large language models to establish your brand's tone and voice, ideate content ideas, and optimize posting - all without sacrificing authenticity or spending endless hours on social media. Walk away with a toolkit of AI-powered techniques to help you crush your social media presence while reclaiming your time.

Join us to discover how you can revolutionize your teaching practice utilizing AI! In this session, we will present various cutting-edge tools designed to save time, create differentiated content, and provide engaging learning experiences for your students. We will not only introduce you to powerful AI features within Quizizz.com, but we will also highlight innovative tools such as Questionwell, SchoolAI, and ChatGPT. While these tools may seem like yesterday?s news, we will focus on fresh strategies for leveraging AI to enhance instructional practices, meet the needs of diverse learners, and streamline your workflow!

Is your school division, school, or classroom website, social media account, or mobile app ready for the seismic shift in web accessibility? Join us to decode the latest WCAG 2.1 standards and the game-changing Department of Justice rule on digital accessibility (https://bit.ly/newwebrules) that will apply to every school division in Virginia by April 2026 or 2027 (depending on locality size). This isn't just about compliance?it's about opening your school's digital doors to everyone. In this dynamic session, you'll: Uncover hidden accessibility barriers you never knew existed Master practical tools to audit and upgrade your website Learn how to avoid costly legal pitfalls Discover simple tweaks that make a world of difference Don't risk leaving students behind or facing legal challenges. Empower your school to lead in digital inclusion. This session is your roadmap to an accessible future?one click at a time.

Come witness the IRIE BrailleTrac120 bringing tactile graphics and braille text to life in stunning detail. Everyone, regardless of their abilities, deserves to access learning materials easily. By embracing both print and braille, students can excel in their academics and daily tasks, empowering them to work independently and efficiently. While providing materials in braille may seem challenging at first, with assistive tools like this, it opens doors to equal opportunities and a level playing field for all learners.

Are you ready to ride the wave of innovation in education? Join us as we explore the powerful partnership between instructional technology and assistive technology. Discover how ITRTs can lead the charge in integrating assistive tech to empower all learners. Dive deep into the world of assistive technology, understand its impact, and get hands-on with tools from low to high-tech. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this transformative session ? your students' success starts here!

Learn about VVAAS projections and how we can use multiple data sources to plan for our students future and current needs. Come engage in robust conversations to create change for our students that allows all student groups to growth.

Do you love AI and Karaoke? Join us as we engage in both! This fun, fast-paced, karaoke-style session will equip instructional coaches, classroom leaders, and school leaders with the knowledge and tools to leverage the power of AI for enhanced productivity, creativity, and student success.

Discover how to empower multilingual students by harnessing the creative potential of Book Creator. In this interactive session, educators will explore innovative strategies for using Book Creator to support language development, enhance literacy skills, and celebrate cultural diversity. Participants will learn how to create engaging, multilingual digital books that give ALL students the opportunity to express themselves in their native languages and English. Practical tips for integrating Book Creator into the curriculum, along with real-world examples of student projects, will be shared. Bring your laptop or tablet and join us to unlock the power of digital storytelling and give your multilingual students a voice!; Discover how to empower multilingual students by harnessing the creative potential of Book Creator. In this interactive session, educators will explore innovative strategies for using Book Creator to support language development, enhance literacy skills, and celebrate cultural diversity. Participants will learn how to create engaging, multilingual digital books that give ALL students the opportunity to express themselves in their native languages and English. Practical tips for integrating Book Creator into the curriculum, along with real-world examples of student projects, will be shared. Bring your laptop or tablet and join us to unlock the power of digital storytelling and give your multilingual students a voice!

Take a deep dive into the realm of augmented reality with Quivervision and explore its transformative potential in crafting curriculum aligned student assessments. If you?re new to Quivervision, or a seasoned pro, we?ll expand your understanding while crafting formative and summative assessments tailored for science and social studies. These assessments are aligned with educational standards, offering educators an engaging and entertaining way to assess student understanding without using traditional unit tests. Through practical demonstrations, participants will witness how 3D augmented reality can bring abstract concepts to life, from virtual explorations of sound and light to interactive examinations of historical events. Attendees will be offered the opportunity to develop their own assessments, fostering creativity and innovation in educational practice. Prepare to elevate your teaching methodology with technology that enhances student engagement and comprehension. Whether you are new to augmented reality or seeking to expand its application in education, this session promises insightful strategies and valuable takeaways.

Research does not have to be boring! Set the stage for our earliest learners to enjoy research and presenting their work! Even first through third grade students can use Adobe Express to present their research through video or a quick animation clip! They even get to incorporate their own illustrations in an animated way! Join us as we show you how students can take their research and turn it into creative mini oral presentations using Adobe Express! This session is great for new users of Adobe Express! Come get your feet wet as we walk you through how we use this program with primary grades. Hands-on time provided so bring an idea you can work on.