Washington Tech Tidbits

According to code.org, "the Hour of Code is a global movement reaching tens of millions of students in 180+ countries. Anyone, anywhere can organize an Hour of Code event. One-hour tutorials are available in over 45 languages for all ages."

Hour of Code will be taking place next week (December 5-11). I will be sending out more information this week about opportunities for your students to experience coding. I will also be available to come in and facilitate with you. Please consider dedicating 1 hour to coding with your students next week!

Head over to https://code.org/learn to start coding, and stay tuned for more information.

The new and improved Google Sites was released last week! To check it out, go to www.sites.google.com and select "New Google Sites." I am a big fan! I think it is easier to use than "Classic" Sites and produces sleek, professional-looking websites.

Do not fret! "Classic" Sites will still be around for some time. Next year, Google will provide and recommend options to migrate your classic Sites to the new Sites format.

In 2018, Google will send a timeline and instructions regarding the gradual process to shut down the classic Sites. They promise to inform users at least one year in advance of that shutdown.

Click here for 10 things that the New Sites can do!

If you are interested in moving your site over to the New Sites format or have any further questions, please contact me.

Sometimes we are in places that do not have wifi access or in situations when we lose wifi connectivity. If this happens, you can still have access to your Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drawings. To enable offline access, follow these directions:

1. Go to docs.google.com (or sheets.google.com or slides.google.com).
   
2. Click on the menu icon (3 lines) at left.
3. Select Settings.
4. Look for "Offline Sync" and click "Turn on."
5. Click "Enable Offline."

Your work will sync when you're back in an area with wifi connectivity!

Here is the link to the App/Extension/Software (AES) Process. If you find a new iPad app, Chrome extension, or software that you’d like to try out in your classroom, please complete the trial request form and contact me to discuss your request.

The first deadline of the year is this Friday, December 2.​ There will be one in the spring, as well.

For more information, access the App/Extension/Software Request page on the D64 Staff Portal.

Google will be hosting its annual Education on Air online conference in December. Sessions will take place around the clock, starting at 5pm on December 2 and ending at 6pm on December 3. This FREE conference gives educators the opportunity to learn from one another by sharing tips and tools that boost student engagement and productivity in the classroom.

Keynote presentations begin at 11am on December 3. Speakers include Dr. Jill Biden, (Second Lady of the United States) and Jahana Hayes (National Teacher of the Year).

For more information, including breakout session topics, a highlight video from the 2015 event, and registration information, click here.