During a recent meeting of the BHUSD Board of Education, Catherine Warren, president of the BHUSD Educators Association and a 7th-grade resource teacher, passionately advocated for the effective use of technology in classrooms. Warren emphasized that technology is not merely a tool for supervision but a vital resource that enhances teaching and learning experiences.
Warren highlighted a recent professional development session led by Jamie Tinter, a teacher who demonstrated innovative uses of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Tinter's approach involved assessing teachers' comfort levels with AI and tailoring his instruction accordingly, which fostered an engaging and supportive learning environment. Warren noted that the session was marked by active participation, with teachers expressing enthusiasm and collaboration rather than focusing on administrative tasks.
She urged the district to continue leveraging the talents of educators like Tinter for future professional development opportunities, asserting that such initiatives are crucial for preparing students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Warren's remarks set the stage for further discussions on educational technology, as the board prepared to hear from other educators about their experiences and insights.
The meeting also included an update from the Educational Technology Committee, which has been working since August to address community concerns regarding technology integration in the district. The committee comprises a diverse group of teachers from various grade levels and specialties, reflecting a commitment to aligning technology use with the district's educational mission and vision. The board expressed appreciation for the committee's efforts and the importance of ongoing dialogue about technology in education.