Karen Newbrough: First to Get 75 E-TIPS hours!
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Congratulations to Karen Newbrough who is the first MCPS E-TIPS Leader. Karen is the staff development teacher at Brooke Grove Elementary School. To become an E-TIPS Leader, Karen completed 75 hours of voluntary after-school training that focused on using technology to support all students. E-TIPS classes are offered by the Technology Consulting staff, Library and Media Services staff, Supporting Services staff, HIAT and InterACT staff.
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According to Karen, “not only did I learn new computer skills, but I also learned about some fantastic assistive technology software. We have a Learning Center and Home School Model at Brooke Grove and the assistive technology software is invaluable to our students and teachers. Also, learning about The Universal Design for learning has really made me think differently about planning for students.” Karen has shared what she has learned from E-TIPS classes with the staff at Brooke Grove. She helps staff use the software with their students, and helps troubleshoot when there are problems using the software. “Without the E-TIPS classes I would never have been able to do this. Before I took an E-TIPS, I had a teacher ask me for help with Co-Writer and I couldn't help her, so she stopped trying to use the software. After I took the SOLO class I went to her and helped her learn how to use the software. Now, she is using it with her students.” As the staff development teacher, Karen has put her E-TIPS training to good use, by helping all staff improve their comfort level with technology. The paraprofessional staff at Brooke Grove have appreciated instruction on technology-based strategies that support a wide variety of learners. “If I hadn't taken the E-TIPS classes, I wouldn't know how helpful the software can be for students and teachers.” To view a list of E-TIPS classes currently being offered, go to the PDO and search for “TIPS.” |
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