In this podcast episode, we conclude our journey through “Power Up Your Classroom” by Lindsay Blass and Cate Tolnai. We delve into the final two levels, exploring strategies to build a vibrant community and take the leap into Game-Based Learning (GBL) and Gamification. Tune in for practical insights and inspiration! Don’t miss the valuable resource…

Do if you want to power up your assessment practices and help students genuinely enjoy the journey of demonstrating mastery? In this episode we talk about starting small by integrating one or two engaging tools like Quizziz, Quizlet Live, Blooket or more into your everyday instruction. By leveraging game mechanics, you can provide feedback effectiv…

In this week's episode, I delved into the world of student-led game design within the classroom. As we examine Level 4 of Power Up Your Classroom, we'll learn how empowering students to become creators, rather than mere consumers of content, can ignite a white-hot passion inside of the students and spur growth at an untold pace. Tools Available in …

In this episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour, we dive into the theme ‘Choose Your Own Adventure.’ Discover how offering choices in the classroom can empower and engage students, create a safe space for exploration and failure, and enhance learning experiences. We’ll discuss the significance of audience, purpose, design, and relationships, and s…

In this podcast episode we dive into level 3 of Power Up Your Learning. Throughout this episode we will look at how the authors explain how game-based learning (GBL) requires a clear structure, design and purpose to be effective and engaging. I also dive into some examples of what GBL can look like in the classroom, but I spend a majority of time o…

We've got an exciting interview lined up with Melissa Zeitz from Zanetti Montessori School. She's doing some amazing work in Computer Science with her Pre K to 8th graders. In this interview we cover a wide range of CS curriculum and tools ranging from robots like Kibo to cool audio tools projects with Audacity. Tune in to get inspired and learn so…

In Level 1 of Power Up Your Classroom we delve into the why of the game. By understanding the unique characteristics of gamification and game-based learning, we will be prepared to integrate both types into our classrooms. My goal for today’s episode is to give you a greater understanding of the why behind Gamification and Game-Based Learning and t…

Have you ever wondered how games can make learning more fun and effective? How can you use game elements like points, badges, leaderboards, or stories to motivate and engage your students? If these questions perk your curiosity, then you are in the right place. During this podcast season we will be doing a book study of Power Up Your Classroom by L…

Welcome to the highly anticipated season premiere of the SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this episode, join me, Mike Thomas, as I provide an update on the latest happenings within the Springfield Public School district. Get ready for an engaging season filled with insightful book talks, the possibility of venturing into vodcasts, and a sneak peek int…

Join us in this episode as we delve into the finale of The Distance Learning Playbook Module 9: Learning, Distance or Otherwise. In a world that is upside down, maintaining a positive learning environment takes center stage. But what exactly does that mean? In this episode, we uncover the essence of a positive learning environment — one where stude…

Welcome to Module 8 The Distance Learning Playbook! In this enlightening episode, we delve into a topic that lies at the heart of effective learning: the pivotal roles of feedback, assessment, and grading. Join me as we explore the profound impact these elements have on the educational journey. In the digital realm of education, where physical pres…

Welcome to the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this week's installment, I explore the content of Modules 6 & 7 from the Distance Learning Playbook. Join me as we navigate through the pages of the Distance Learning Playbook and dissect the strategies it offers for creating tasks that truly captivate students' attention. But that'…

Welcome to The SPS Digital Learning Hour, where I invite you to join me on a deep dive into the ever-evolving landscape of education. In this episode, we delve into Module 5 of The Distance Learning Playbook, titled "Teacher Clarity at a Distance," authored by Doug Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. Together, we'll uncover the critical role of cl…

In today's enlightening installment, our focus is on a crucial topic: Teacher Credibility at a Distance. But don't be fooled! This module isn't just for remote learning situations; it applies to in-person education as well. In a traditional classroom, teachers have an array of tools to establish credibility with their students. However, in a distan…

I'm excited to dive into module three of the highly acclaimed book, "The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting" by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. Join me as we explore the fascinating world of distance learning and how it applies to our experiences in the classroom, both in-person a…

Welcome to this special replay episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour podcast, originally aired in February 2021. In this episode, I dive into module two of the highly popular book, "The Distance Learning Playbook," by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. This time around, I revisit the episode with some fresh thoughts and reflections, pr…

Prepare yourself for an exciting new episode as I delve into the book, "The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting" authored by the esteemed Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. In this series of episodes, I will personally guide you through a profound exploration of each chapter, offering…

Welcome to another exciting episode of SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this episode, we gather insights from five esteemed teachers representing kindergarten to twelfth grade in Springfield as we delve into the fascinating world of Chat GPT. Join us as we engage in a thought-provoking discussion on this hot new topic. Our panel of teachers shares the…

Join us this week for a special episode of our podcast as we sit down with some incredible interns from Putnam. These students have a unique story to tell as they transition from being students at Putnam to becoming future college students. We'll hear all about their journey, from their early days in elementary school to their current experiences a…

Join us in this episode as we chat with Matt, a former 9th grade teacher from NYC who now works with us at SPS in Western Mass. Matt shares his journey from being a young teacher with computer skills to running and organizing technology for schools. He talks about his experience using Chromebooks and Google Classroom and how he encouraged his stude…

In this podcast, Victoria Ellis shares her journey of 15 years in education, starting as a paraeducator. She is now working as a Middle School math teacher at the Springfield Virtual School for Springfield Public Schools. She talks about how she found her calling as a teacher and the challenges she has faced in her journey. Victoria emphasizes the …

At the SPS Digital Learning Hour, we take great pride in highlighting the diverse experiences of teachers at various stages of their careers. This week, we had the pleasure of interviewing David Steinberg from German Gerena Community School. David, who previously worked as a consultant in the private sector, made the decision to switch to a career …

For this week’s podcast we are going back to the summer and learning all about what Barbara Cheney from Indian Orchard. Barbara’s experiences range from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. We discussed teaching early in her career through Covid to now. I have always loved teaching Summer School, and Barbara is part of a cool program during…

This week I am bringing you an incredibly special episode. Over the summer I met Karen Toro and Courtney Ciras from Alice B. Beal Elementary School. During the summer, as teachers, we can really develop new practices in a low-pressure environment. This also means that we get to try new things. With close to 25 years teaching experience combined and…

This week's podcast we interviewed Denise Cote, a Middle School English Teacher from Springfield’s Conservatory of the Arts. Mike and Denise talked all about the use of technology in the district for the last 17 years! During the interview you will learn how Denise first adopted technology in her classrooms and how that technology continues to enha…

Welcome to the start of a new school year. For the first episode of the year we spoke with Sarah DeFeo. This interview was recorded near the end of last year and we thought it would be a great way to start this year. Sarah teaches at White Street Elementary School and has been there for the last eight years. Sarah came to teaching 2nd grade as a ca…

We here at the SPS Digital Learning Hour love to spotlight teachers and this week’s episode is no different. I met Desiree Robinson from Glenwood Elementary. Desiree is a true homegrown teacher here in Springfield. You can hear her love for the city of Springfield in the way she talks about her job. She is a shining example of how you can go from b…

Here at the SPS Digital Learning Hour we are excited to bring you this week’s episode featuring Kathryn Runyan from White Street Elementary. Having taught various grade levels throughout the last 22 years, Kathryn has used a wide variety of technology tools that we get into in this episode. Back in 2002 schools were still using floppy discs!!!! Thr…

Here at the SPS Digital Learning Hour we are excited to bring you this week’s episode featuring KatieAnne DeMars from Springfield Virtual School. Having taught various grade levels throughout the last 22 years, which included time as a School Administrator KatieAnne brings a wealth of knowledge to Springfield’s Newest School. Throughout this episod…

When it comes to interviews I hit the jackpot. I met with NJ Rivilis from the Springfield Conservatory of the Arts. NJ is a new teacher to our district, but I think that we are the lucky ones. As an Electrical Engineer Graduate, NJ has an interesting path to the classroom. NJ has a lot of experience outside of the classroom working at Mass General …

This is the final week for our series on Computer Science in Middle School. In the previous weeks we heard from principals and teachers, this week we will hear from their students. I met with students from Zanetti, Kiley Prep and STEM Academy. Listen to these students' experiences as they discuss their favorite parts of computer science in their cl…

For this weeks episode we dive into a three part series featuring our Middle School Computer Science Students, Teachers, and Principals. I met with a few of our teachers for this episode. I talked with Melissa Zeitz of Alfred G Zanetti Montessori School, Alva Laster, Jamie Carens and Gary Burgess of STEM Middle Academy and Lia Ashe Simmer of Kiley …

For this weeks episode we dive into a three part series featuring our Middle School Computer Science Students, Teachers, and Principals. I met with three of our principals for this episode. I talked with Principals Tara Clark of Alfred G Zanetti Montessori School, Luis Martinez of STEM Middle Academy and Julia St. Martin of Kiley Prep Middle School…

For our latest episode I met with Dr. T. Alan Bush, the Dean of Student at Kiley Prep, and former Middle School Science Teacher at John F. Kennedy Middle School. We had an enjoyable conversation on how Science and Math are connected and how that can help your students. You’ll also hear my dad joke about math, feel free to adjust and use it. I was t…

In this week’s podcast episode, I met with Joanna Mineo from Brightwood Elementary School here in Springfield. Joanna is a newish to the teaching world, having graduated a few years ago and now she is doing a fantastic job teaching. Check out to hear all about her experiences as a new teacher and learning how to teach during COVID. Plus, you’ll hav…

For this weeks podcast we meet with Lori Spiro from Alice B. Beal Elementary School here in Springfield. During our conversation Lori spoke about teaching at various schools and various grade levels. Lori is another one of our teachers who have moved from their classroom position to the brand new CS/TC teacher position. This position was created th…

Welcome Back to the 2021-2022 School Year. To kick off this year's podcast we meet with Erin Demarest from Milton Bradley Elementary School here in Springfield. During our conversation you can hear all about what it was like to teach 2nd grade and then how she made the move to Springfield's new CS/TC teacher position. This position was created this…

In the penultimate episodes of the 2020-2021 school year, I interviewed Kathryn Chace from Springfield Conservatory of the Arts Middle and High School. She is an Instructional Leader and an AP Statistics teacher. Throughout many of her years teaching Kathryn always seemed to be a step ahead with Technology, you might even say she was an EdTech DIYe…

In the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour I met with Alex Freedman from John J Duggan Academy. This award-winning teacher is doing exceptional work in his school. Pre-COVID-19 he was already preparing the teachers he works with for Digital Learning. Microsoft Teams was the tool of choice at his school. Come and learn all about everythi…

We're back! In the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour I met with Alyson Santerre from Milton Bradley Elementary School. Come and learn all about her journey with technology in the classroom and her growth as a classroom teacher to be a leader in her building with the use of technology. Hear some great ideas for teaching reading remotel…

With this week's episode we jump into module three of the very popular book, The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, John Hattie. With the SPS Digital Learning Hour podcast, we are talking our learning out loud. If you do not own this book, get it now and join us …

If you missed it in Episode 103 we meet with various teachers, students and parents from Liberty Elementary School in Springfield to discuss Minecraft in the classroom. When I was talking with everyone I quickly realized that I needed to share the whole interview with the teachers, as they gave me so much good stuff but I didn't want to make a 2 ho…

In this week's episode we visit with Teachers, Students and even Parents at Liberty Elementary School to discuss how, as an entire community, they have adopted Minecraft Education. As a Microsoft district we provide Minecraft for Education for all schools, at a district level, we are thrilled with Liberty that they have taken advantage of our Micro…

In the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour I met with Kristyn Brannigan, classroom teacher from Beal Elementary. Come and learn all about her journey, which took her from teaching in Springfield to all around the world and back again. Hear some great ideas for teaching reading remotely to younger students and ways that you can take care…

In this week’s episode we met with Catherine Murphy, a Kindergarten Teacher from Arthur T. Talmadge Elementary School. Catherine is doing some amazing work in the classroom. During this magical year, she introduces many students to what school is all about. As a CSForAll teacher, she integrates a lot of technology into her class pre-COVID, which ex…

We did it! We've hit 100 episodes! This week we interviewed Arturo De Bourbon, technology teacher and Tech Coordinator at Samuel Bowles Elementary School. Listen to how he got his start in education and the way he is keeping morning messages going through this remote time. You can hear his inspiring story here at the SPS Digital Learning Hour Podca…

With this week's episode we jump into module two of the very popular book, The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, John Hattie. With the SPS Digital Learning Hour podcast, we are talking our learning out loud. If you do not own this book, get it now and join us on…

In this week's episode we met with Liberty Elementary Teacher, Karen Potter. Karen has been teaching for 20+ years now all at Liberty. Karen has taught 1st grade for most of her time. Come hear some marvelous stories about her time, things that she is doing now with her students and her strategies for taking care of yourself. Tools mentioned: Bee-B…

In this week's episode we met with Sumner Ave Elementary Teacher Liam Bevan. Liam teaches Science to the entire school. Learn how he came to education and the ways he is finding success in the classroom. Tools mentioned: Stemscopes Brightspace Unified Classroom Schoology Peardeck Nearpod Classkick Microsoft Whiteboard Zoom Microsoft Teams Document …

With this week's episode we jump into a hot new book, The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, John Hattie. With the SPS Digital Learning Hour podcast, we are talking our learning out loud. If you don't own this book, get it now and join us on the journey of discov…