VSTE

Virginia Society for Technology in Education

VSTE News

Applications are Now Open for the VSTE Certified Coach Program!

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Header image that says :Become a VSTE Certified Coach"

Join the fastest growing network of certified coaches in Virginia!  The VSTE Certified Coach program (#VCC) is now accepting applications for its 2024-2025 cohorts.  This program was created by VSTE to provide a custom professional learning experience for instructional coaches that allows them to collaborate in cohorts while learning the art of coaching.  The VCC curriculum is aligned with the ISTE standards for coaching and has been developed in partnership with Forward Edge, an Ohio based company that specializes in instructional coaching.  Although originally developed with EdTech Coaches in mind, the VCC program is open to all instructional coaches in Virginia.

All coaches who complete the VCC program will:

  • Have a clear understanding of their role as an educational technology coach.
  • Think systematically about the role their coaching program plays in larger district goals and initiatives.
  • Approach technology integration from a learning objective first mindset.
  • Be prepared to incorporate formal coaching cycles into their coaching program.
  • Create and market professional learning experiences founded in andragogical best practices that are personalized, memorable, and lead to classroom implementation.
  • Possess a strong skill set for building relationships and deepening coaching conversations with educators.
  • Utilize data to make informed decisions about their work as a coach and the needs of educators they support.

 

VSTE Certified Coach LogoOver the past year, hundreds of Virginia coaches have joined the VCC and VSTE has developed the VCC Professional Learning Network to provide continued support, professional collaboration, and opportunities for growth to all VSTE Certified Coaches.  You can become a part of this amazing PLN by applying for one of the 2024-2025 VCC cohorts.  Act fast - applications close on December 15th, 2024.

VCC Application Link  (bit.ly/VCCapp2024)

 

 

The VCC Application Details

Interested coaches will need to determine which cohort they wish to register for based on their experience and availability.  There are three VCC cohort options for the 2024 VCC Application: spring semester, fall semester, and full year.  The spring semester cohorts will run from January through May and will meet twice each month. The fall semester cohorts will run from August through December and will meet twice each month.  The full year cohorts will run from  September through May and will meet once every month. Newer coaches are recommended to register for the full year cohorts in order to allow more time between learning experience to grow their practice, but all applicants can indicate their preference within the registration form.

Interested coaches will need to fully understand the expectations of the VCC program and should obtain approval from a direct supervisor.  There will be meeting times that will occur during regular working hours, and there is an expectation that participating coaches will commit to the meeting times and participate during those sessions.  In order for candidates to be successful, supervisors will need to be supportive of a coach’s participation and made aware that there is a cost of $300 per participant associated with the VCC program.

The 2024 VCC Application Deadline is December 15th, and all applicants will be notified on or before January 5th of their acceptance.  The first meeting of each cohort will be announced in advance, and subsequent meeting times will be determined by a cohort poll.  Arrangements for the payment of $300 must be made prior to the first cohort meeting.  Divisions interested in hosting a division-wide cohort should contact Rod Carnill, VSTE Executive Director.

 

A graphic summarizing the blog post information.

 

 

Join Us in Making a Difference: VSTE’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

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written by VSTE's DEI Committee Chair, Lynmara Colón

Attend an amazing VSTE DEI Committee webinar with panelists that will help all Reach The Peak: Leveraging VSTE For Your Professional Growth at the 2023 VSTE Conference.  REGISTER HERE!

VSTE DEI Logo

My years as a VSTE board member have taught me a lot about the power of serving in spaces where one can advocate for students from different backgrounds. Over the years, I have met countless educators all over the state committed to supporting students and providing them access to technology in many different ways.

At VSTE, we are thrilled to announce our unwavering commitment to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in technology. We understand the importance of this work, and we have actively engaged with a wide range of stakeholders across the state, listening to their needs and gathering insights on what they are looking for in DEI efforts from the organization.

Throughout these conversations, it has become abundantly clear that many of you share a strong desire to gain more knowledge and guidance on supporting marginalized student groups, women, and minorities within the technology sector while seeking opportunities to grow in your roles. We've also learned that many of our members are concerned about securing funding for DEI initiatives to improve the educational experiences in your school divisions. In response to these needs, we are excited to launch a series of webinars where you can hear from experts from various fields who will share their knowledge and passion on these critical topics.

VSTE 23 "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" Logo

Our upcoming VSTE conference, set to take place on December 3-5, promises to be an invaluable space for you to dive deep into these crucial subjects. Here's what you can expect from the conference:

  1. Expert Insights: Our lineup of speakers includes experts making magic happen in these spaces, focusing on supporting English Learners and students with disabilities, mentoring, culturally responsive practices, and leadership in diverse school divisions across the state. Their presentations and discussions will provide actionable strategies and innovative ideas to drive DEI forward. Every year, I leave with notes and ideas that have helped me enhance some of the initiatives in my school division.
  2. Networking Opportunities: The conference will offer numerous opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, educators, and advocates who share your passion for this work in technology. By engaging in these connections, you'll gain new insights, ideas, collaborations, and friendships that can help advance your advocacy work. I make it a point to make at least 3 connections across the state. These new friends have been a lifesaver in helping me process my learning after the conference. Every year, I look forward to seeing them again!
  3. Growth and Empowerment: The VSTE conference is not just about learning; it's about empowering you to make a tangible difference in your field. We aim to equip you with the resources, tools, and learning experiences necessary to create an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. The keynote sessions are powerful and always packed with great wisdom. I make it a point to attend a session on something new. It forces me to get curious and grow about new things.

At VSTE, our ultimate goal is to foster a sense of belonging for everyone, where technology becomes a powerful tool for educators to create conditions for every student to succeed. We believe that by working together and sharing our knowledge and experiences, we can significantly impact the lives of those historically underserved in the technology sector.

To that end, we extend an invitation to attend an amazing VSTE DEI Committee webinar with panelists that will help all Reach The Peak: Leveraging VSTE For Your Professional Growth at the 2023 VSTE Conference.  REGISTER HERE!

We hope to see you at the conference in December, where we will embark on an exciting journey toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Let's create a magical and transformative experience that will impact all educators and students in Virginia.

Join us in this magical adventure. Together we can make a difference because “Ain’t no Mountain High Enough!”. We can't wait to connect with you at the VSTE conference.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

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Cybersecurity Awareness Month banner from NIST
Image sourced from https://www.nist.gov/cybersecurity/cybersecurity-awareness-month

During the month of October, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) partner to celebrate Cybersecurity Month and they have been doing so for 20 years. I am not really sure if Cybersecurity Awareness Month is one I want to necessarily celebrate, but I do know it is incredibly important to build awareness.

Educators play a crucial role in ensuring the security of both their own data and the data of their students. Here are 5 cybersecurity tips to help you promote cyber safety!

Strong Passwords and Authentication:

First on the list because it is so important, ensure that you have strong, unique passwords for all your accounts, especially those related to school networks. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters to construct your passwords. There are likely requirements in place for the combinations and length required. If there are no requirements, make sure you turn on two-factor authentication for that account.

Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts. Two-factor authentication typically requires the use of your email or phone to claim a code used to login and access an account. Your school or district may require 2FA and also may require changing passwords frequently. Both are good precautions.

Remember to use completely different passwords for your school accounts and your personal accounts. You shouldn’t really use the same password for any two accounts, however, memorizing all those strong and unique passwords is a challenge and that is why password keepers and 2FA are so important.

Protect Student Data:

Safeguard sensitive student data, such as grades, attendance records, and personal information. Simply put - Know Your School/District Data Protection Policies. Make sure you have read and understand the policies. If you don’t know where to find them - ask.

Update and Secure Devices:

Ensure that your computer, tablet, smartphone, and any other devices you use are regularly updated with the latest security patches and software updates. Use antivirus and anti-malware software to protect against threats. Phones are also vulnerable and you should really think twice about using your school accounts on your phone. If you do, use a long and strong passcode and facial recognition if available as protections against unwanted access to the device.

Stay Informed about Cyber Threats:

Keep yourself updated about current cybersecurity threats and best practices to recognize them. Staying informed about the latest trends in cyber crime will help you combat against becoming a victim. Think before you click. Don’t fall for the Phishing attempts or the ‘clickbait’ that land in your inbox or your social feeds. See the link in Resources below for the details.

Know Who to Call if it Happens to You:

A Password Keeper is a good idea. This will make it easier to quickly update passwords, especially if you have been a victim or suspect you have been a victim of a cyber attack. Prioritize where to start. Start with the password to your email account connected to the attack.

Experts recommend that you have a call list ready incase you do fall victim to a cyber crime. Do you know who to call? (law enforcement, financial institutions, credit card companies, credit reporting agencies, lawyers, Insurance companies, relatives and close friends who might be vulnerable)

 

In addition to these tips, educators should also:

  • Use secure, password-protected Wi-Fi networks when accessing school-related materials or systems remotely. If you are in public places like airports, restaurants, even medical offices - don’t log in from the Wi-Fi. If you must ask for a password protected network or use your phone as a hotspot.
  • Educate students about cybersecurity best practices, including protecting passwords, safe internet usage and recognizing/reporting threats online.
  • Report any suspicious online activities or cybersecurity incidents to your school's IT department or designated school authorities promptly.
  • Be aware of and familiar with your school's cybersecurity policies and procedures, and adhere to them diligently.
  • Back up essential teaching materials and resources regularly to prevent data loss in case of cyber incidents. Offline and Offsite is best, if an attack happens you may not be able to access your school accounts, devices, or resources.

By following these cybersecurity tips, teachers can contribute to a safer digital learning environment for both themselves and their students.

Resources:

  • https://www.phishing.org/10-ways-to-avoid-phishing-scams
  • https://www.commonsense.org/education/articles/teachers-essential-guide-to-cybersecurity\
  • https://www.k12dive.com/spons/un-complicating-cybersecurity-3-ways-to-teach-students-about-cybersecurity/620669/