Spring is in full swing, and so is innovation in education! The April 2026 ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter  is packed with opportunities, tools, and ideas to help educators stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of instructional technology. Click on the above image to open the full newsletter 🌟 Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss 🎤 Call for Presenters: Lake ECMECC 2026 We’re gearing up for another incredible Lake ECMECC Conference (August 4, 2026 at Mora High School) —and we want YOU to be part of it! This conference is all about educators learning from educators. If you’ve got strategies, tools, or experiences worth sharing, now’s the time to step up and present. Attendee registration opens in May, so stay tuned! 🤖 What Do People Really  Want from AI? A fascinating feature dives into insights from tens of thousands of AI users, exploring: How people are using AI What they hope it can do What concerns they have It’s a great conversation starter for classrooms and staff discussions alike—and a reminder that we’re still just scratching the surface of AI’s potential. 🧠 AI in Education: Opportunities to Learn & Lead This issue is loaded with AI-focused opportunities: Free AI Training for Educators  (via Google + ISTE + ASCD) Bite-sized modules, classroom-ready strategies, and micro-credentials to showcase your learning. 3rd Annual AI in Education Summit (June 15–16, St. Cloud) A must-attend event focused on leadership, ethics, and implementation in the AI era. Host a Student AI Prompt-a-thon A creative, collaborative way to build AI literacy while solving real-world problems. 🎧 Fresh Content from Integrate This! The podcast lineup is stacked this month with conversations featuring: Vera Cubero Sabba Quidwai Tara Nattrass Hattie Strong (SchoolAI) Plus, a new Tech in 10  series kicks off with Vivipod , a tool bringing back Flipgrid-style video reflection in a fresh way. 🛠️ Tech Tidbit: Flip to Vivipod Looking for a modern alternative to Flip? Vivipod  offers asynchronous video reflection and formative assessment—especially valuable in an AI-heavy world where authentic student voice matters more than ever. 🍲 EdTech Potpourri (Yes, It’s as Good as It Sounds) A few standout tools and ideas: 🧩 Learning Genie  – Build full units with AI support 📰 Newspaper Generators  – Creative projects for any subject 📂 Google Drive Organization Tips  – Because we all need this 📚 OpenStax + NotebookLM  – AI-powered study supports for open resources 🔍 AI Literacy Focus: The “E” in SEE (Effectively) This month zooms in on using AI effectively : Learn a practical prompting strategy (CREATE) Encourage iteration and deeper thinking Use AI as a thinking partner—not a shortcut It’s a great framework for both educators and students working to build meaningful AI habits. 💡 Final Thought One quote from this issue really sticks: “We found a unicorn and we are using it to pull a plow.” AI is powerful—but how we use it in education is what truly matters. This month’s newsletter is all about helping educators move from basic use to transformative impact.

Click on the above image to access the full newsletter. 2026 ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter  highlights several tools, resources, and ideas educators can use right now to enhance instruction. From exploring Google’s Gemini AI tools to new ways of visualizing student thinking, here are the key takeaways from this month’s update.he key takeaways from this month’s update. Getting Started with Google Gemini in the Classroom Google’s Gemini AI platform  can be much more than a simple chatbot. It can serve as a thought partner for brainstorming, lesson planning, drafting communications, or answering questions. But when educators want to go deeper, Gemini includes several powerful modes and tools  designed for different tasks. March 2026 Newsletter Choosing the Right Gemini Mode Gemini provides three main modes depending on your needs: Fast Mode  – Best for quick prompts and everyday classroom tasks. This is the default and works well for the majority of use cases. Thinking Mode  – Designed for complex problems or tasks that require multi-step planning. Pro Mode  – Ideal for deep research or analyzing large documents and datasets. March 2026 Newsletter Helpful Gemini Tools for Educators Gemini also includes tools that support teaching and learning workflows: Guided Learning  – A Socratic-style tutoring tool that leads students toward answers rather than giving them directly. Deep Research  – Helps gather and cite sources, saving teachers hours of research time. Canvas  – A collaborative workspace where you can build documents, presentations, or other projects alongside AI. March 2026 Newsletter Together, these tools allow educators to move beyond simple prompts and start using AI as a true instructional partner. Creating Graphic Novels with AI Graphic novels have long been a powerful way to engage students because they combine visuals and text, supporting dual coding, inference skills, and accessibility  for learners. With tools like Gemini and NotebookLM , educators and students can now create their own basic graphic novels using AI. Eric Curts (CtrlAltAchieve) has shared examples, templates, and directions to help teachers explore this creative approach in their classrooms. March 2026 Newsletter This can be an exciting way for students to demonstrate understanding of concepts, retell historical events, or craft narratives across content areas. Minnesota Resources for Getting Started with AI SchoolAI has launched a resource hub specifically for Minnesota educators . The site includes: “Getting Started with AI” guides Admin prompt libraries District policy examples AI literacy resources for students and teachers The platform also offers Instructional Toolkits  tailored by grade level and specialty areas such as STEM, CTE, Special Education, MTSS, and administration. March 2026 Newsletter These curated resources provide practical starting points for educators looking to explore AI in their classrooms or districts. AI in Education: What Teens Are Saying A recent Pew Research Center survey  sheds light on how students are already using AI tools: Over half of U.S. teens  report using chatbots to help with schoolwork. 51% say AI tools are somewhat to extremely helpful  for school tasks. 10% say they use AI for all or most schoolwork , while 45% report not using it at all. 59% believe AI cheating is common  among students at their school. March 2026 Newsletter The data highlights the importance of helping students develop strong AI literacy and ethical use habits  as these tools become more common in learning environments. Making Student Thinking Visible One emerging classroom tool worth exploring is the Whiteboard feature in Brisk Boost . This tool turns any resource into an interactive drawing board where students can: Sketch math models Label science diagrams Map story arcs or processes Teachers can monitor student thinking in real time, while students receive AI-supported feedback during the learning process. March 2026 Newsletter Creative Map Making with Google My Maps For educators who love geography or data visualization, Google My Maps  offers an engaging way to turn spreadsheets of locations into interactive maps. A tutorial from Brian Buffington demonstrates how educators can guide students in creating their own maps—an activity that works well for social studies, history, and project-based learning. March 2026 Newsletter Upcoming Learning Opportunities A.I.D.E Virtual Symposium Educators interested in the future of AI in education may want to attend the 2026 A.I.D.E Virtual Symposium , hosted by the Southwest West Central Service Cooperative’s Center for Artificial Intelligence Development in Education. Event Details: Date:  May 1, 2026 Time:  9:00 AM – 3:30 PM Keynote:  Becky Keene (AI Optimism) Cost:  $99, with recordings available for attendees. March 2026 Newsletter The event will explore practical strategies and real-world applications of AI in schools. Integrate This! Podcast and Tech Tidbits ECMECC continues to provide learning opportunities through two ongoing initiatives: Integrate This! Conversations Weekly podcast discussions with leaders and integrationists in edtech. New episodes drop every Thursday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Tech Tidbits A monthly 25-minute virtual session demonstrating a practical tech integration strategy. February’s session explored AI + SAMR for transformative learning , and March will focus on Eduaide AI 3.0  and how it supports teachers without disrupting effective instructional practices. March 2026 Newsletter AI Literacy: Teaching Ethical Use This month’s AI literacy focus highlights the “E” for Ethical  in AI for Education’s SEE Framework (Safely, Ethically, Effectively) . Educators are encouraged to: Maintain academic integrity when using AI Design activities that promote critical thinking with AI Discuss ethical scenarios with students Be transparent about issues like bias and environmental impact Adopt a “do no harm” mindset that keeps learning human-centered. March 2026 Newsletter Helping students use AI responsibly ensures the technology supports learning rather than replacing it. Final Thoughts AI tools are quickly becoming part of everyday classroom life. By exploring platforms like Gemini, encouraging creative student work with tools like NotebookLM, and focusing on ethical AI use, educators can ensure these technologies enhance—not replace—meaningful learning. If you have questions or would like support integrating these tools, reach out to Jeremy Mikla at ECMECC  or explore additional resources through the Tech Integration newsletter.

February is packed with opportunities to support safe, ethical, and effective technology use  in classrooms—and beyond. From Safer Internet Day resources to AI-focused professional learning, here’s what’s happening at ECMECC this month. Click on the image above to open the full newsletter Safer Internet Day: Helping Students Navigate the Online World Safely For the fourth year in a row , ECMECC has received a ConnectSafely Safer Internet Day Grant , allowing us to provide educators with free, classroom-ready resources  that support digital safety and responsible online behavior. This year’s focus centers on helping students avoid: Online scams Predators Creepy or unsafe digital interactions The curated resource set includes lesson plans, videos, and activities  tailored for: Elementary (PK–5) Middle School (6–8) High School (9–12) 📌 Important note:  To meet grant reporting requirements, educators must complete a short Google Form so we can track the number of teachers and students served. Once completed, you’ll receive all resources at no cost —a requirement for districts receiving Federal E-Rate funds. Free Safer Internet Day Event for Parents Safer Internet Day is a global event celebrated in over 100 countries , and families are part of the conversation too. ConnectSafely and the National PTA are hosting a free parent-focused event  titled: “No Room for Doom: Helping Your Family Thrive in Our Digital Age” The program explores: Healthy online boundaries Screen time habits Cyberbullying prevention Supporting kids in a connected world ECMECC is proud to support this effort and encourage families to participate. Parents can register to receive the program directly in their inbox on Safer Internet Day. Congratulations to Our ISTE 2026 Scholarship Recipients 🎉 We’re excited to celebrate six ECMECC educators who will attend ISTE Live 2026 in Orlando , joining nearly 17,000 educators from around the world to learn, network, and share. Congratulations to: Deb Bursell – Mora Adam Engel – Rush City Megan Karolevitz – Braham Shelby Rademacher – East Central Ray Sperl – Cambridge-Isanti Mary VonRueden – East Central We’re especially looking forward to seeing these educators share their learning as presenters  at the Lake ECMECC Conference this August. Free AI Webinar Series for Educators The SWWC Center for Artificial Intelligence Development in Education (A.I.D.E.)  is launching a free, high-quality webinar series  focused on meaningful, classroom-ready AI use. Each session prioritizes instructional design first , with ideas educators can apply right away. Upcoming sessions include: February 16:  Vocabulary Learning & Authentic Assessment March 16:  AI as Your Lab Partner – Designing Science Labs April 16:  Transform Social Studies with Primary & Secondary Sources Register once and receive access to each session as it’s released. New Integrate This! Conversations & Tech in 10 Videos 🎧▶️ Fresh conversations and quick-hit videos continue to roll out through Integrate This! Upcoming Podcast Conversations Feb. 5 – Dave Blanchard (former Cambridge-Isanti teacher) Feb. 12 – Carl Hooker Feb. 19 – Thomas Thompson ( Eduaide.ai ) Feb. 26 – Eric Santos New episodes drop every Thursday  on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Tech in 10: Brisk Next – AI for Teachers This month’s short-form video series explores: What Brisk Next is How it supports teachers Creating instructional bundles Giving batch feedback efficiently Subscribing to the Integrate This! YouTube Channel ensures you never miss new content. February Tech Tidbit: SAMR + AI = Transformative Learning AI is showing up everywhere—but are we using it transformative ways ? This month’s Tech Tidbit explores how AI fits within the SAMR framework , with practical examples of AI use at: Substitution Augmentation Modification Redefinition The focus is on moving beyond novelty and into learning experiences that were previously impossible. Watch for an email later this month with registration details. EdTech Potpourri: Resources You Can Use Right Now Winter Olympics Classroom Activities Courtesy of Peggy Reimers (TCEA), these activities bring Olympic energy into learning: Italian Trivia Winter Olympics Digital Breakout Countries Challenge Roman Numerals Quick Quiz Google Sheets Olympic Rings Pixel Art Exporting AI Math to Google Docs Creating math with Gemini is easy—but exporting it cleanly can be tricky. A short 10-minute video walkthrough shows a simple, free solution  to avoid messy formatting when moving AI-generated math into Google Docs. AI Literacy You Can Safely SEE 👀 This month’s AI Literacy focus highlights the “S” for Safety  in the AI for Education SEE Framework . Key reminders for educators and students: Never enter personally identifiable information (PII) into AI tools Evaluate whether an AI tool truly supports the learning goal Keep learning human-centered by balancing AI and human thinking A simple takeaway message for students: AI can support my thinking, but I protect my privacy and do my own learning. Jeremy will continue sharing AI Literacy guidance each month throughout the school year. If you have questions about any of these resources or opportunities, feel free to reach out directly to Jeremy Mikla at jmikla@ecmecc.org . Want updates like this delivered straight to your inbox? Be sure to sign up for the ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter.

A new year is the perfect time to rethink what’s possible in classrooms—and the January 2026 ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter  is all about helping educators do just that. This month’s newsletter focuses on immersive learning, media literacy, and practical AI integration , while continuing to spotlight tools, conversations, and strategies that work in real classrooms—not just in theory. click on the image above to open the full newsletter Stepping Into the Future with AR & VR Imagine students standing on the surface of Mars, exploring the inside of a human cell, or experiencing a career path firsthand—all without leaving the classroom. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are no longer novelty tools. When used intentionally, they can deepen understanding, boost engagement, and create learning experiences that simply aren’t possible with traditional resources. The newsletter highlights the ECMECC AR/VR Kit , available for checkout to all member districts. One common concern we hear is, “How do I use VR with a full class when I only have a few headsets?”  The answer: station rotation . With thoughtful planning, even eight headsets can support meaningful learning for 30 students. Combatting Misinformation in the Classroom In a world of AI-generated content, deepfakes, and viral misinformation, teaching students what  to think isn’t enough—we need to help them learn how  to think. This issue takes a deep dive into media literacy strategies across grade levels , from helping younger students distinguish real vs. pretend to guiding older students through lateral reading, AI audits, and Socratic discussions. The focus isn’t on debunking every false claim—it’s on building habits of questioning, pausing, and reflection that students can carry beyond the classroom. Conversations, Videos, and Bite-Sized Learning January is packed with new and ongoing content, including: Integrate This! Conversations  with educators and edtech leaders A free Tech in 10: ChatGPT for Teachers  video series Monthly Tech Tidbits  focused on tools you can use immediately These resources are designed to respect educators’ time while still offering depth, clarity, and practical classroom connections. EdTech Potpourri & Cybersecurity Tips This month’s “EdTech Potpourri” section highlights: Simple tools for creating custom maps Built-in Chrome features that support accessibility Cybersecurity reminders that reinforce one key message: Password length beats complexity—and slowing down beats clicking fast. Small habits can make a big difference when it comes to digital safety. AI Literacy in Action The newsletter also spotlights AI literacy work happening in Minnesota schools , including STMA’s thoughtful, student-centered approach. Rather than banning or fully embracing AI, the focus is on intentional use , critical thinking, and helping students understand both the potential and the limitations of these tools. It’s a powerful reminder that AI literacy isn’t optional—it’s essential. Read the Full Newsletter There’s much more inside the January edition, including visuals, examples, and links to explore further. 👉 Read the January 2026 Tech Integration Newsletter If any of these ideas spark questions—or if you’d like support bringing them into your classroom or district—reach out. We’re here to help.

The December 2025 Tech Integration Newsletter is officially live — and it’s packed. This month’s edition brings a mix of practical classroom ideas, AI literacy support, trending edtech updates, and professional learning opportunities designed to help you close out 2025 strong. Whether you're looking to spark student creativity, stay updated on the latest AI tools, or just find something fun to try before winter break, there’s something in here for everyone. click on image to open full newsletter This Month's Highlights 🎓 ISTE Live 2026 Scholarship Applications Are Open If you've ever wanted to attend ISTE Live, this might be your year. The newsletter includes full details on the 2026 scholarship opportunity, happening June 28–July 1 in Orlando. This is one of the best ways to connect with global educators, explore cutting-edge tools, and recharge your innovation batteries. 🤖 AI + SAMR: Finding the Right Fit A super practical breakdown of how AI can support every level of the SAMR model—without skipping over the importance of intentionality. From substitution to redefinition, you’ll find examples and even a Gemini Gem to help you design aligned classroom activities. 🎙 New Integrate This! Conversations We’ve had some incredible guests lately, including Brian Buffington, Amanda Otero, Jeff Riley, and Dave Burgess. Links inside to watch, listen, or subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. 🧰 Tech Tidbits: Phonics Tools for Elementary Teachers If you missed last month’s session, the recording and slides are linked. December’s Tidbit features Gemini Gems , giving you a peek at how AI can take repetitive tasks off your plate. 🎮 EdTech Potpourri: Creative Mode in Gimkit, Chrome Reading Mode & More From tapping into the viral “6–7 Mania” trend to exploring Gimkit’s brand-new Creative Mode, this section is full of quick wins you can use immediately with students. 🧠 Responsible AI for America’s Youth Learn about the Day of AI  program developed by MIT RAISE — free curriculum, teacher guides, and PD opportunities that help build meaningful AI literacy at all grade levels. If you want to jump straight in, the full newsletter is ready for you now. It’s a great one to browse with a cup of coffee and maybe a dusting of snow falling outside your window. ☕❄️

This month’s ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter dives deep into the intersection of Design Thinking  and AI in education —and how these two approaches can actually strengthen  one another in the classroom. Instead of focusing on restrictions, November’s edition is all about human-centered innovation . From reimagining how we design assignments to helping students use AI ethically and effectively, this issue is packed with tools, insights, and creative energy. 🧠 Using Design Thinking to Address AI Misuse in Assignments Design Thinking invites us to slow down, empathize, and truly understand our learners before jumping into solutions. This month’s feature story shows how those same principles can help teachers rethink assignments vulnerable to AI misuse . By pairing Design Thinking with smart prompting strategies in tools like ChatGPT , Google Gemini , or MagicSchool , educators can make assignments more personal, creative, and thought-driven. Each step— Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test —comes alive with sample prompts teachers can try right away. It’s a practical, reflective process that puts students’ voices and thinking  at the heart of learning. 🎙️ New on the Integrate This!  Podcast: Tech in 10 Jeremy and David have launched a new short-format series— Tech in 10 —with 10-minute videos that explore how to integrate specific EdTech tools into your classroom. Recent releases include: Hidden Chrome Features for Teachers Microsoft Co-Pilot for Educators Google Classroom + Gemini Tools (Pt. 1 & 2) NotebookLM Google Classroom + Gemini Gems Subscribe on YouTube , and don’t forget the weekly Integrate This!  podcast episodes—fresh conversations with educators and innovators drop every Thursday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 💬 Tech Tidbits: AI Feedback with Snorkl October’s Tech Tidbit  featured Snorkl , an AI-powered formative feedback tool that helps teachers and students engage in deeper reflection. You can watch the session replay  or grab the presentation slides  anytime from ECMECC’s Tech Tidbits page . Next up? A session designed especially for primary teachers —using AI to generate Decodable Texts  aligned with literacy and phonics goals. Watch your inbox for the date later this month! 🎬 EdTech Potpourri: New Tools Worth Exploring This month’s “EdTech Potpourri” spotlights some incredible tools and resources: Google Vids  – A new video creation tool inside Google Workspace, perfect for combining slides, recording narration, and adding transitions. EduGems Library  – A collection of educator-built Gemini AI assistants  for curriculum design, literacy, assessments, and more. Class CrunchLabs  – Free, standards-aligned middle school science  resources developed by Mark Rober and the National Science Teaching Association. 🤖 AI Guidance, Not AI Restrictions In partnership with Mykel Madera from SWWC Service Coop, this month’s AI Literacy Spotlight  explores what students are really asking for when it comes to AI: guidance, not bans. A recent Digital Education Council Global Student Survey  revealed: 86% of students already use AI tools like ChatGPT. 72% want teachers to help them learn to use these tools properly. 65% believe AI will help in their future careers. The takeaway? It’s time to move beyond fear and start teaching AI literacy —using the SEE approach : Safely:  Teach digital privacy and responsible use. Ethically:  Model transparency and attribution. Effectively:  Use AI for inquiry, analysis, and revision. 🌟 Final Thought November’s edition reminds us that innovation doesn’t start with tools—it starts with empathy. Whether we’re designing an assignment, recording a lesson video, or helping students navigate AI, the goal is the same: keep people at the center of every decision.

Click on the image above to open the full newsletter October’s newsletter is packed with ways educators are using technology to make learning more creative, connected, and student-centered. From AI-powered storytelling to design-based learning and ethical inquiry, this month’s highlights remind us how powerful thoughtful tech integration can be. ✨ Featured Spotlight: The Perfect Book Project Imagine your elementary students crafting their very own chapter books — complete with original characters, settings, and plots — without being overwhelmed by the mechanics of writing. That’s the idea behind The Perfect Book Project , created by Liz Voci of Dartmouth Public Schools. Using Google’s Gemini , students collaborate with AI to bring their ideas to life while learning about authorship, agency, and responsible AI use.💡 Try it yourself:  The newsletter includes a Prompt Template  and a link to the Perfect Book Project Website  to get started. 💬 NotebookLM Comes to Google Classroom If you’ve been waiting for NotebookLM to take the leap into Classroom — it’s here! Google’s NotebookLM  now integrates directly with Google Classroom and includes Video Overviews, Flashcards, and Quizzes . Teachers can create dynamic learning notebooks that review content, summarize readings, or generate quick study tools.🚀 Bonus:  NotebookLM is now approved for all ages  through Workspace for Education accounts! 🐒 Remembering Jane Goodall with SchoolAI To celebrate the legacy of Jane Goodall, SchoolAI  shared several immersive activities that blend ethics, science, and creativity. From “Jane’s Jungle Guide” to a full “Observing Chimpanzees” simulation, students can step into the role of young scientists — observing, reasoning, and creating in a safe, scaffolded AI environment. 🎨 Tech Potpourri: Canva Edition It’s officially Canva season! This month’s Tech Potpourri section focuses on using Canva for Education  to spark creativity: Try Letter Frames  to create engaging vocabulary visuals or About Me activities. Get festive with a Halloween Comic Strip  template. Explore Canva’s Teaching Resources Page  for over 80,000 free templates, lessons, and mini-courses. 🤖 Build AI Knowledge & Literacy Finally, don’t miss Google’s new AI literacy resources  for teachers and students. These include free lessons, simulations, and a K–12 course to help classrooms use AI safely, ethically, and effectively. 📰 Read the Full Newsletter You can explore all of these stories — and download links, templates, and resources — in the full October 2025 ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter . Whether you’re designing student-centered projects, integrating AI tools, or just looking for creative teaching inspiration, this edition is full of ideas worth trying.

We’re kicking off the school year with a tech-packed edition of the ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter  that you won’t want to miss ! Whether you’re looking to reflect on summer highlights or gear up with fresh ideas for fall, we’ve got something for everyone in this issue. The ECMECC crew that attended ISTE Conference in San Antonio. Click image to open Newsletter. 🌟 In This Issue: 🧳 ISTE Recap – San Antonio Style Marc and Jeremy brought back inspiration (and maybe a few tacos) from this year’s ISTE Conference in Texas! Get a glimpse of the keynotes, sessions, and connections that left us energized for the year ahead. 🎢 Next Stop: Orlando 2026 Yes, it’s hot in Florida—but the learning (and air conditioning) will be 🔥! Find out how to apply for an ISTE scholarship and join us next summer. 🎤 Lake ECMECC Conference Recap Over 180 educators gathered in Mora for our biggest local conference yet. With 30+ breakout sessions, inspiring Ignite Talks, and a stellar slate of presenters, this one set the bar high. Don’t miss the photos and details! 🏆 Celebrating Educators of Excellence Meet the 30 ECMECC educators recognized for innovation, leadership, community-building, and student impact. 💙👏 💡 Google Goodness: What’s New & What’s Coming Check out the latest updates to Google Slides, Docs, Forms, and Classroom—including new Gemini AI integrations ! (Think Magic School but built into your workflow.) 🎓 Free Livestream Learning: FieldED is Back! Connect your students with NFL pros, marine biologists, artists, and more with free 30–45 minute live events  from museums and experts around the world—brought to you by CILC. 📸 AI + Student Inspiration: “When I Grow Up” Prompt Use Gemini to help students see  themselves in future careers—literally. Turn a student photo into a vision of their future self in their dream job. It’s easy, impactful, and private-school safe. 🧠 AI Use Guidelines by Age Get clear, age-appropriate recommendations for using generative AI responsibly in the classroom. A must-read for anyone exploring AI in education this year. 📬 Read the Full Newsletter Now → Catch the latest updates, tools, and opportunities to elevate your tech integration game this school year. Whether you're a classroom teacher, tech coach, or admin—this one's got something for you . Let’s make it a great year, — The ECMECC Team

Click on the Image above to open the full newsletter. As we roll into spring, the April Technology Integration Newsletter is blooming with inspiration, ideas, and opportunities! Whether you're deep into MCA prep, experimenting with AI in the classroom, or itching to present at this summer’s Lake ECMECC Conference, there’s something here for you. 🏆 EdTech March Madness Winners! Let’s kick things off with a big congrats to our EdTech March Madness Amazon Gift Card winners: Anne Meyer (SCRED)  and Jason Sjoberg (Mora) ! Huge thanks to everyone who played along—it’s always fun to stir up a little friendly competition around educational technology! 📣 Be a Presenter at the Lake ECMECC Conference! We’re gearing up for the 12th Annual Lake ECMECC Conference  on August 5, 2025 , and it wouldn’t be possible without the amazing educators in our community. 👉 Presenters wanted! Have an idea, strategy, or story to share? We want to hear it! Whether you're a seasoned presenter or brand new to the stage, this is your chance to inspire and connect with other educators. 🔗 Submit your proposal now 📝 MCA Test Prep Tools That Work Testing season is here, and we’ve gathered some high-quality digital resources to support students during MCA prep. From sample items to full simulations, these tools help students build confidence and familiarity before test day. Minnesota Testing 1-2-3 Sample Items Minnesota Questions Tool (MQT) MDE Student Resources 🎙 Don’t Miss This: Integrate This! Podcast We’ve got two major drops  this month on the podcast: Exploring and Creating GPT Chatbots Jeremy and David dive into how educators can personalize chatbots for instruction using ChatGPT, Canva, and SchoolAI. Super practical. Totally fun. ▶️ Watch Part 1  | Watch Part 2 COMING MAY 1 A must-listen interview with Matt Miller  (Ditch That Textbook) where we chat about AI’s role in education, digital literacy, and where it’s all heading. 🎨 Canva Just Got a Major Upgrade Big things are happening in Canva, and it’s all designed with educators in mind! With Canva for Education , K–12 teachers get access to a suite of new AI-powered tools—for free! Here’s what’s new: ✨ Magic Studio Tools  – Create lesson plans, writing prompts, or differentiated text instantly📊 Canva Sheets  – Visualize class data with zero spreadsheet stress🗳 Interactive Tools  – Build dynamic, digital lessons with embedded questions and media 👉 Check out Canva’s latest updates Need a refresher? Thanks to Ashlee Georges & Brittany Misuraca, we’ve got three quick and helpful training slides ready for you: Getting Started with Canva Design Tips for the Classroom Advanced Canva Magic 🤖 A Popourri of AI Tools & Resources Whether you're just dipping your toe into AI or fully diving in, we’ve got a mix of cool tools and ideas to explore: AI for the Curious and Cautious Watch Aunt Chippy’s hilarious Waymo ride to understand how many of us feel about AI in schools.▶️ Watch on YouTube Offline, Open-Source AI Try Jan.ai , Nomic, or Ollama—ChatGPT alternatives that run locally for extra privacy and control. Create Infographics in Seconds InfographAI  lets you turn plain text into polished visuals instantly. Elementary AI Activities aiEDU’s Explorations  are fun, short, and perfect for grades 3–5. Better Class Discussions with AI Parlay Genie  crafts engaging, grade-level discussion prompts on demand. Let us know what you’re trying out and loving—we’re always looking to spotlight great ideas and tools from across our ECMECC schools. Until next month, happy experimenting! 🧠💡

Spring is in the air, and that means one thing— March Madness!  No, we’re not just talking about basketball—we’re talking about the EdTech March Madness Challenge! This is your chance to score big  while exploring new tech tools and strategies. Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, there’s a challenge for you: ✅ Free Throws (1 point each)  – Quick and easy tech wins ✅ Jump Shots (2 points each)  – Mid-range challenges ✅ Three-Pointers (3 points each)  – Level up with advanced tasks Complete 25 points or more , and you’ll be entered to win an Amazon Gift Card!  🏆 The deadline to submit scores is Friday, April 4 , so don’t wait—get in the game today! 👉 Sign up and track your points here 👉 Challenge directions and activities 🎭 Copyright, Fair Use, & Creative Commons: Play by the Rules! In today’s digital world, educators and students have unlimited access to content, but with great access comes great responsibility.  Understanding copyright, fair use, and Creative Commons  is essential to being a responsible digital citizen. Here are 4 key factors of fair use  you should keep in mind when using online content in your classroom: ✔ Purpose & Character  – Is the use educational or transformative? ✔ Nature of the Work  – Is the material factual or creative? ✔ Amount Used  – Are you using only what’s necessary? ✔ Effect on the Market  – Does it impact the creator financially? 🔹 Transform, Don’t Just Copy!  Encourage students to remix and create  rather than simply repurpose existing content. Need to find legally usable images ? Try Google’s Creative Commons search filters  to refine your results! 🚀 Learn more about Creative Commons here 🤖 AI in the Classroom Spotlight AI isn’t just for tech enthusiasts—it’s transforming education! This month, Tracy Fix from Braham Public Schools  shared how her 7th grade STEAM students  used AI to design their own seed packets  for fictional plants! 🌱 ✨ How AI Boosted Learning: Brainstorming Assistance  – AI helped students generate unique plant names and descriptions Image Generation  – Students created AI-assisted visuals for their seed packets Deeper Understanding  – Through this creative process, students learned about plant classification and care " My students had a blast bringing their plants to life! AI made the process more engaging and thought-provoking. " – Mrs. Fix 💡 Looking for AI resources?  Check out how NotebookLM  can help analyze student IEP progress data in this 10-minute video : Watch Here 🔥 EdTech Potpourri: This Month’s Tech Treasures 🌟 FigJam Add-On for Google Classroom  – A powerful collaborative whiteboard alternative to Jamboard and Padlet. Learn More 🌟 Canva Accessibility Checker  – Ensure your designs are inclusive  for all learners. Go to File → Accessibility → Check Design Accessibility  to improve readability! 🌟 Adobe Express Future Self Template  – Students imagine themselves 15 years into the future  with AI-generated visuals . Try it out 🌟 42 Lucky St. Patrick’s Day Activities  – Bring a little leprechaun magic  into your classroom! Explore activities Let’s make March a month of innovation, creativity, and ethical digital use!  Get involved in the EdTech March Madness Challenge, explore AI, and embrace responsible digital citizenship. 💬 What tech tools are you excited about this month? Drop us a comment and let’s chat! #KeepLearning #EdTechMadness #AIinEducation 🎉

February is here , and so is our latest Technology Integration Newsletter , packed with AI-powered insights, interactive learning strategies, and creative edtech tools  to make your lessons more engaging than ever! Whether you're looking to streamline formative assessment, enhance collaboration, or empower students with digital portfolios, this month’s edition has something for everyone. Access the Full Newsletter using the Canva Link 🔍 What’s Inside This Month’s Issue? 💡 AI for Formative Assessment  – Discover how tools like Brisk, Diffit, and SchoolAI  can help you provide instant feedback, personalized learning paths, and data-driven insights —saving time while supporting student growth. 🎨 Interactive Learning with Digital Whiteboards  – Engage students beyond traditional slides! Explore FigJam, Lumio, and Canva Whiteboards  to create collaborative activities, mind maps, and visual learning experiences. 📂 Creating Effective Digital Portfolios  – Help students document and reflect on their learning journey with Seesaw, Google Sites, Wakelet, and Book Creator . This section provides a guide for choosing the right tool based on age, subject, and learning goals. ⚡ Tech Potpourri: New & Trending EdTech Tools  – This month’s feature includes Jeda.ai , Dashtoon, and Google’s Learn About —exciting AI-powered platforms designed to spark creativity and enhance engagement in the classroom. 🌟 Why You Should Check It Out 🔹 Save time with AI-powered lesson enhancements 🔹 Engage students with hands-on, collaborative tools 🔹 Get inspired with fresh edtech ideas you can apply right away 🚀 Get Involved! Got a favorite edtech tool or a creative way you’re using AI, digital whiteboards, or portfolios  in your classroom? We’d love to hear from you!  Share your ideas and let’s keep the conversation going. 📧 Email me at:   jmikla@ECMECC.org 🎙️ Listen to the latest Integrate This! Podcast:   www.youtube.com/@Integr8This 📺 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:   www.youtube.com/@Integr8This Let’s keep innovating, collaborating, and making learning more engaging  for our students! 🚀 📥 Read the Full Newsletter Here: 📌 https://www.canva.com/design/DAGfX0q-_No/vHmuWdSsu00zWdVEHRDaGQ/view?utm_content=DAGfX0q-_No&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h3e5da2f111

Happy New Year! 🎊 We’re kicking off 2025 with an exciting edition of the ECMECC Tech Integration Newsletter , packed with valuable resources, upcoming events, and tech tips to help you start the year strong. Click on the image above to view the full Newsletter 📅 What’s Inside This Month? Safer Internet Day – February 11, 2025 ECMECC is once again partnering with ConnectSafely to provide K-12 lesson plans focused on Wellness, Identity, and Self-Respect  in digital spaces. Topics include managing device distractions, cyberbullying, and practicing online civility. Let’s empower students to navigate the digital world safely! 🎉 ISTE Scholarship Recipients Announced A big congratulations to our educators who received an ISTE Travel Scholarship and will be presenting at Lake ECMECC  this summer. We’re proud of your dedication to advancing educational technology! 🕶️ Check Out ECMECC’s New VR Headsets Thanks to grant funding, we now have 8 VR headsets available for schools to borrow for STEM, Virtual Tours, and Career Explorations.  Reserve your headset today and bring immersive learning to your students! 🎥 Google Vids – Your New Go-To Video Creation Tool Discover how Google Vids makes it easier than ever to create educational content with intuitive drag-and-drop features, built-in music, and seamless Google integration. 📝 Google Forms Update Say goodbye to the "Send" button—Google Forms now features a “Publish” button  to make sharing forms easier and more flexible. Learn how to manage your form’s visibility with a few simple steps. 🎨 Fun with Tech Potpourri! This month’s section features cool tech tidbits, including: Unzoomed:  A daily geography guessing game using satellite images to challenge your city-spotting skills. Animated Drawings by Meta:  Bring your Bitmoji to life with simple animations. Emoji Shortcuts:  Quick tricks to add emojis on Mac, Windows, and Chromebooks. 📩 Don’t miss out!  Check out the full newsletter here   and stay in the loop with all things EdTech. Got questions or ideas for future newsletters? Reach out to Jeremy Mikla , our ECMECC Instructional Technology Specialist, at jmikla@ecmecc.org . Stay inspired and keep integrating technology to enhance learning! #EdTech #ISTE #SaferInternetDay #GoogleVids #VRinEducation