Blog Posts

Money, time, and training: The challenges of bringing technology into the classroom

Posted by Natalie Vanderbeck on December 03, 2018

There’s no debate: teaching in the 21st century has been greatly enhanced by the aid of technology. The students in our classrooms are digital natives. They’re eager to utilize various technologies, resources, and devices. Their natural aptitude with devices and their interest is the buy-in you need to enhance and deepen their learning through tech. In short, students thrive when given opportunities to use technology in the classroom. However, there can be challenges, which often hinder the implementation of bringing technology into the classroom. Let’s break them down, tackle them, and get that tech in!

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Topics: Elementary School, FUNDING, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, ROBOTICS, Technology, Resources, Coding, Professional Development

5 good cyber habits for teachers and students

Posted by Dan Eckelberry on October 09, 2018

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Yawn. Sounds like something only an IT nerd would get excited about . . . right? Before you completely dismiss this topic, be advised that there’s a good chance that you’re currently at risk of having your online accounts compromised.

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Topics: Middle School, Elementary School, High School, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, Homeschool, Technology, Professional Development, Future Ready, 21st Century Skills

What’s your teaching type? Find out here!

Posted by Pam Scifers on September 14, 2018

Let’s get personal, shall we? 

And since Im the one asking, I’ll volunteer to go first. I’m a wife, mother, daughter, sister, Taurus (to a T), marketer, food nerd, home design student, sports enthusiast, dog-loving gal. In my role at Pitsco, I strive to create personalized, meaningful experiences that resonate with our teachers and make a difference in your classrooms and students’ lives. I’m a planner and strive for routine, but I find myself juggling, problem-solving, and reprioritizing my ever-growing to-do list every . . . single . . . day.

As an educator, I’m sure at least that last part sounds somewhat familiar.

Which brings us back to the personal part . . . what type of teacher are you?

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Topics: IN THE CLASSROOM, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, Giveaways, STEM, Resources, Teacher Development, Professional Development

To Do: Summer 2018

Posted by Katlie Brynds on June 11, 2018

Ah, summer break. Were you counting down? Are you feeling a twinge of sadness as your students move on? We’re sure youll miss your students, but summer break is necessary to refuel, relax, and regroup. (You won’t even have to wait for a bell to ring to dismiss you to the restroom!) However, do you really get as much free time as youd like? Or are your summer plans filling rather quickly? We recently published a poll on our social media pages to find out what you all are planning to do over summer break. An overwhelming majority of educators said theyd be taking part in at least one professional development activity, but an equal number said theyd be vacationing. It’s all about balance!

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Topics: IDEAS & INSPIRATION, Resources, Teacher Development, Professional Development

Resources to fund classrooms – show me the money!

Posted by Melissa Karsten on March 02, 2018

Based on an article by Pat Forbes published in February-March 2018 issue of The Pitsco Network.

Even if you’re not a Jerry Maguire fan, the sentiment is still clear. We know you’re looking for where the money can aid in funding your classroom(s). Let us show you where some of the money isOne resource is the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that provides funds in the US and overseas. Their latest foray is to focus on backing locally inspired solutions.

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Topics: FUNDING, ROBOTICS, Resources, Teacher Development, Professional Development