On Monday, March 11, more than 600 educators from across New York City braved the windy weather to descend on the Long Island University campus in Brooklyn for the 11th time. #NYCSchoolsTech Summit. The event marked a return to in-person professional learning, which participants eagerly embraced as they attended presentations, engaged in lively discussions, earned CTLE credits, and explored a packed vendor room throughout the day.
The day, which focused on promoting digital learning, tools and opportunities, began with a welcome from New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, who told attendees: “I urge you to everyone to bring what they learn today to their schools to help build bright beginnings and bold futures for our students.” New York City Division of Instruction and Information technology CIO Intekhab Shakil and Deputy CIO Randy Asher also greeted attendees.
The welcome was followed by a keynote address by Rebecca Ramnauth of the Yale Social Robotics Laboratory. A graduate of New York City Schools and LIU, Ramnauth's inspiring presentation focused on her work at the Yale Social Robotics Lab, where they are building robots to help students with autism learn to establish human connections.
The popular vendor gathering took place at the library and was attended by more than 60 creators of educational technology solutions, products and platforms, ranging from assessment and communication tools to creation and collaboration platforms, to classroom hardware and software. Google, Microsoft, Canva, Adobe, LEGO Education, Dell, Epson, and Promethean were just a few of the available partners that are also found in many classrooms.
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a series of dynamic presentations, including taking paperless attendance, using Canva to enhance teaching and learning, and creating a safe and welcoming digital learning environment. They were also able to hear the latest news for education from companies such as Apple, Google, Adobe and Microsoft. Later that same day, José Pérez and Anthony Casasnovas of the DIIT presented at the Battle of the districtsa Minecraft educational challenge and the role of esports.
The event culminated in the recognition of 12 Summit Award winners, who were recognized for their contributions to education in New York City:
- Balice is enoughLibrary/Media and SPOC Teacher, Space Shuttle Columbia PS 58
- Matthew GorinModel Teacher, PS K721 – Brooklyn Occupational Training Center
- Brilliant PetersEducational technology coordinator, Virtual Academy of Innovators
- Teresa Williams4th Grade Teacher, Brooklyn Arbor Elementary School
- Erin Dietztechnology and SPOC Coordinator, PS 103 – Hector Fontanez School
- Deborah ParadiseTeacher, Technical Coordinator and SPOC, Leadership and Public Service High School
- Steven MudrickDirector of CTE and SPOC Video Production, School of Theatrical Arts Production Company
- Herson PleitezProfessor of technology and SPOC, PS 109 Sedgewick
- Lisa Choitechnology Teacher, Stars Programmer, Webmaster and SPOC, PS 7 Queens
- Victoria StutoVisual and Digital Arts and SPOC Teacher, PS 29 Bardwell
- Ellen Perlow Phillipstechnology Teacher, The Grand Central Parkway School
- Samantha BarrettPolicy Evaluation Office Leader, Community School District 20
The final fun of the day featured technology and Learning Content Director Christine Weiser presenting dozens of prizes from event partners.
Ultimately, the #NYCSchoolsTech Summit was once again a great day for all attendees providing professional learning, networking, and much more.
