#BRESA Tech Tips
January 2025
Rejuvenated and Ready to go!
Welcome back!
After recharging over the break, it's time to dive into an exciting new chapter. Whether you're wrapping up projects or embarking on fresh courses this January, we know getting back into rhythm takes time – and that's perfectly okay!
This is your moment to experiment with new approaches and shake things up. Dare to innovate – try that teaching method you've been curious about, reimagine your classroom space, or explore cutting-edge tools that could transform your students' learning experience. The start of a new term is the perfect time to bring fresh ideas to life.
Remember, meaningful change happens step by step, and every small victory counts. Your determination and resilience will light the way forward, no matter what challenges arise.
We're here to support your journey and celebrate your progress. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need a helping hand. Let's make this semester extraordinary!
John & Megan
KEVA Planks
We have so many great resources that are available to be checked out from REMC 11!
This month we highlight KEVA Planks.
KEVA planks may look like wooden blocks, but the possibilities with them are endless! Every plank is the exact same size and shape. Learning about area and perimeter? Have students build shapes and calculate the perimeter or area of it. Want a fun group task? Have students work together to build the tallest standing structure using a specific number of planks. Teaching a unit on Egypt? Students can recreate Egyptian landmarks. Whatever your subject matter, KEVA Planks can add to your instruction tenfold. Check out the educator site for KEVA.
To check out items, you MUST sign up as a member on the new platform (only once). Additionally, items will only be delivered via REMC truck once per week OR you can come pick them up if needed sooner.
Spring 2025 is right around the corner!
Another exciting season is about to kick off in SWMI Esports! We are officially the southwest Michigan affiliate for MiHSEF which means we are adding additional schools through our partnership! Our league continues to be entirely FREE and will include an end-of-season tournament at Lake Michigan College.
For the spring season, we will be playing Rocket League 3v3, Valorant, and Super Smash Bros.
If you or your school are interested in participating in the Spring season (or just want to begin the planning process for the fall) please reach out to esports@berrienresa.org.
Contact John today if you would like more information.
Rooms
Create and explore interactive rooms. You can remix everything in the room, add sound, motion, links, text and AI conversations. Text based coding is also available in order to personalize your room even more!
Check out examples of rooms made by John themed around the newsletter!
Flippity
An oldie but a goodie! Using Google Sheets (and some word banks of the site) you can make a variety of teacher tools. Some of the tools you can make include: name picker, board games, word search, Madlibs, self-assessments, matching games and so much more!
Teachable Machine
Cybersecurity Practices
Cybersecurity Practices explores what is cybersecurity, resources to help support your organization, and a review of best practices to follow for protecting and keeping safe your organization's network. Every person in an organization has a responsibility to practice good cybersecurity skills, which are also beneficial in one's personal life.
Objectives:
Explore the importance and value of Cybersecurity
Identify essential practices to protect myself and my organizations
Learn how to help their learners grow in their understanding and practices regarding cybersecurity
Code.org Computer Science Fundamentals (K-5) training
Kent STEAM Network Connect
$20 (lunch included)
Steelcase Innovation and Learning Center
SCECHs: 6.5
"An inspiring day of learning with so many STEM educators, highlighted by valuable insights from Steelcase designers on applying design thinking in industry."
An exclusive day designed for STEM educators, Project Based Learning and Design Thinking enthusiasts. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with fellow educators, industry partners, and experts in the STEM field, fostering valuable connections and insights.
Register for Kent STEAM network connect until February 10. Spaces will fill up fast
How can we help?
We would love to hear your suggestions on how we can best support you. Please complete this form if you have some ideas regarding content you would like to see in our newsletter or specific needs in your district. Also, please feel free to share this newsletter with others and if you are interested in subscribing, simply email info@berrienresa.org with the subject line "Tech Tips".
Finally, as always, feel free to contact John Phillips or Megan Roth directly for all of your educational technology needs.
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