Week 1: June 1-7 Resources Reflection

Thank you for sharing this week’s resources, Dr. Rivera. One of my favorites was the Cool Cat Teacher Blog. I’ve always found that talking with other educators is one of the best ways to get new ideas, solve problems, and even relieve some of the stress that comes with teaching. It was also interesting to read stories and perspectives from teachers in other places, not just here on Guam. 

I also enjoyed exploring Education Technology and its articles about AI. This is a topic I’ve been thinking a lot about lately because I’m currently struggling to find the right balance with AI use in my classroom. I don’t mind students using AI when it is used appropriately, but many middle school students still do not understand how to use it as a learning tool. Too often, they see it as a shortcut and use it in ways that result in plagiarism rather than helping them develop their own thinking. As AI continues to grow, I think it is important for us to teach students how to use it responsibly and effectively.

The ILA and Poet's Club sites were another nice addition. I think your poems would be great to use in the classroom because they are based on experiences and topics that our students can understand and relate to. When students see themselves and their culture reflected in what they read, they are often more engaged.

Lastly, although they were not technically resources, I found the introductory YouTube videos to be very helpful. I think they would make excellent additions to future professional development sessions. One video discussed the importance of understanding the different types of technology available, knowing how and when to use them, and making sure they are integrated properly into lessons. That message really stood out to me because I believe there needs to be a balance between traditional teaching methods and new technology. One quote that stuck with me was, “Technology is not the solution, but an aid.” I think that perfectly sums up how technology should be viewed in education. Another important point from the videos was that schools often spend a lot of money purchasing technology but do not always provide enough training for teachers. As a result, some of that technology ends up being underused or not used to its full potential. This is something I believe the Guam Department of Education should keep in mind when investing in new technology. Providing quality training and support is just as important as purchasing the technology itself.

Week 1: June 1-7 Reflection

 As a teacher in this generation, I believe that the use of technology and keeping yourself updated is very important. Many students as young as kindergarten have great knowledge about technology. In many classrooms that I have been in, I see teachers using many educational websites to assist with their lessons and class discussions. I have seen teachers use Kahoot, IXL, quizlet and many other educational resources. But I also believe that “the teacher will always be the most important element in learning,”  that technology can assist, but can not solely be responsible for teaching the class/students. Knowledge and understanding the use of  technology is not only important as a teacher, but also in general.  When I have a question or don’t understand something I google it or search “how to” videos on youtube. I also use CHATGPT to get ideas and suggestions for anything. I am always willing to learn new things about technology use in the classroom. Thank you Dr. Rivera for sharing all the resources. I always enjoy reading your poems; the Sinlaku and the tribute to Tata.

Angela Anderson

Hafa Adai! My name is Angela Anderson, and I am from Pago Bay. I began teaching in 2009 and have dedicated my entire career to Inalahan Middle School. I have always taught 7th grade Language Arts, but more recently I have become a combo teacher, working with both 6th and 8th grade students as well. I am also very involved in coordinating school activities and served as a yearbook advisor for many years. I truly enjoy creating memorable experiences and making school enjoyable for students both in and out of the classroom. After all these years, I still genuinely love teaching middle school students and ensuring they have a memorable experience at IMS. Teaching definitely keeps me feeling both young and old at the same time! 

6/1-6/8 Resources

 Thank you for sharing this week's resources, Dr. Rivera! It's always great to find new resources, especially ones that are free. I especially liked the worksheets and posters provided on the Busy Teacher blog. I am constantly looking for quick-checks that I can use in class, and these worksheets look like great examples. The posters are also good quality, and also free, which are fantastic. I was previously an IRA member before I moved, and this week's resources reminded me that I need to rejoin the ILA soon. It was also really cool to read some of your poems! I enjoyed the poem about Typhoon Sinlaku, and I think students would appreciate reading poems that they can relate to. 

Introduction

  Hello!

My name is Ciann San Nicolas, from the beautiful village of Inalåhan. I was a 2nd grade teacher for the first 3 years of my teaching career, then moved to the middle school reading space for the rest. I was also lucky enough to be a middle school reading specialist when I lived in Denver for two years! I have a five year-old daughter named Nyla Joy. In my spare time, I love reading fantasy books and watching reality TV. 

Jovie Taimanao

Buenas yan Hafa adai.

My name is Jovita M. Taimanao, aka Jovie from Sinajana, Guam and originally from Rota CNMI.  My professional career is in education and my focus goal is to spread the CHamoru learnings through oral, written, and reading.  I am a CHamoru teacher at Agana Heights Elementary School.  I enjoy teaching and a part of the Bumblebee family in that school.  I look forward to develop further learnings in this class through learning technology in education.

Jaclyn Dela Cruz

My name is Jaclyn Dela Cruz. I live in the beautiful village of Agat. I work at Harry S. Truman Elem. School in Santa Rita as a Special Education teacher. But I also have other teaching experiences in early childhood special education, teaching in 1st and 2nd grade. I have been in HSTES for about 14 years now. But, I have been a teacher for about 26 years and still enjoy being a teacher.