Amy LaVigne-Benore Portfolio Overview Table of Contents Critical Thoughts Activities and Accomplishments Teaching Background My first year teaching (1996-97) I taught 8th grade Mathematics. I created an integrated technology unit then with a theme of problem solving. That was five years ago and that was only the beginning... My second year of teaching (1997-98) was spent in a 6th grade self-contained classroom. My class made regular weekly visits to the lab and even took open time slots left over from those teachers who were more reluctant to accept and integrate technology. I came to believe that integrating technology was inspiring to students and it made a positive difference in their learning. Not only did students improved, but my skills did as well. Since the fall of 1998, I have been Ida Middle School's Computer Lab Instructor. Technology has become my passion. Although I feel that I have reached an advanced level in all COATT Standards, I strongly believe that I will continue to improve my technology skills andI will always be a lifelong learner. Critical Thoughts Some important points to know about my teaching beliefs and styles are: Students do as I do, not simply what I say Technology should not be taught in isolation, Students must be active participants in their learning In my classroom students feel safe, supported, and praised Top of Page Activities and Accomplishments 1996 Graduated Suma Cum Laude from Western Michigan University with Minors in Elementary Education, Science, and English 1996-97 Acquired Mathematics Endorsement 1997-Present Serve on Building and District Technology Committee 1998 Began serving as a Technology Teacher and Building Technology Coordinator Awarded $500.00 Grant for Best Practices of Technology Integration Lesson Plan October 1998 Monroe CountyWide Inservice Presenter Integrating Technology Into the Language Arts Curriculum Integrating Technology Into the Social Studies Curriculum 1998-Present IITAC Committee Member, Integrating Instructional Technology Across the Curriculum, in Monroe County Area Provide training to teachers in all areas of technology 1999-2000 Awarded $7500.00 Michigan Governors NextDay Innovation Grant March 1999 M.A.C.U.L. Conference Presenter The Tech Plan October 1999 Monroe CountyWide Inservice Presenter Razzle Dazzle HyperStudio Fine On-Line Projects October 2000 Monroe CountyWide Inservice Presenter Creating a Mini-Web Quest July 2001 Will acquire an Educational Technology Certificate through Eastern Michigan University Top of Page Comments?: lavigne@ida.k12.mi.us