VARconnection

Teachers Use Edtech to Invent Open-ended Accessibility Tools

When you think of assistive technology, chances are you’re thinking about specialized technology like speech-to-text software, Braille note-taking devices, and screen magnifiers — tools that serve a specific purpose. Think again. Teachers are using edtech to create homegrown, open-ended accessibility tools for their students and here at Douglas Stewart, Co., we’re loving these teacher-inventors who … Continue reading →

K-12 Assistive Tech Highlight: IPEVO Document Cameras

Assistive technology eliminates unnecessary hurdles for students with disabilities and improves their learning experiences and outcomes. Document cameras are one powerful tool that can bring learning materials front and center and in focus to improve educational outcomes in special education classrooms. Today we’re highlighting IPEVO document cameras because IPEVO watches how teachers use document cameras … Continue reading →

3 LGBTQ Heroes for the Classroom

As LGBTQ Pride Month wraps up, here are 3 people we highlighted for 2022 that we think are worthy of mention in an LGBT-inclusive curriculum. Alan Turing Turing is credited as the creator of modern computer science and AI. He put his talent to use breaking German codes during World War II. James Baldwin Baldwin … Continue reading →

5 Ways to Create Inclusive Classrooms

When students can feel safe, they can focus on learning. Creating a classroom environment that is friendly and inclusive involves a 360-degree look at your teaching methods and materials. Here are 5 ways to create inclusive classrooms. 1. Prepare for teachable moments Planning for teachable moments will make a difference in developing a safe learning … Continue reading →

3 Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth and Black History

Here are 3 ways to make Juneteenth special. Continue reading →

[Infographic] U.S. Department of Education’s Vision to Promote Education Equity

When Secretary of Education Cardona laid out his vision for pandemic learning recovery, he included plans to improve the U.S. education system and reduce education inequality. Here are the 4 key action areas the U.S. Department of Education vowed to address in 2022 and beyond and a few of the ways schools can support these … Continue reading →

Overview: Pandemic Educational Funding [Infographic]

K-12 ESSER funds represent an unprecedented investment in education. Here’s your brief educational funding overview. Infographic text: Overview: Pandemic-related Educational Funding *After schools voiced concerns over spending ARP fund by September 30, 2024, The U.S. Department of Education announced on May 13, 2022, that it will consider requests for 18-month extensions in light of schools … Continue reading →

ESSER III Spending Plans [Infographic]

Get a snapshot of how schools plan to spend their ESSER III funds, which includes about 7.6% towards student mental and physical health. For schools looking to accelerate learning, there is possibly more time to research new solutions. On May 13, 2022, the Department of Education shared that they would consider requests for 18-month extensions … Continue reading →

3 Ways to Promote Student Well-Being

Teaching the whole child can promote better focus and learning. Here are 3 ways to boost student well-being. Continue reading →

3 Ways Teachers Can Be (SEL)fish

The Great Resignation of 2021 continues to plaque employers into 2022, and K-12 schools are not immune. Teachers continue to take on extra roles to fill in gaps left by colleagues who resigned, which will only accelerate burnout. As schools scramble to find substitutes and hire replacement teachers, educators may find the most immediate relief … Continue reading →