At the last IT Lead Teacher meeting, we discussed a new professional
development opportunity to offer to a few teachers at a time. Joyce
Perry and Craig Miller do not need extra work. But they are especially
interested in working one-on-one with teachers to help with
instructional technology integration.

Beginning in February, we want to try a limited field test of what we
will call "Adopt-A-Teacher" program. The idea springs from the
recognition that teachers live with such demanding schedules that they
often have very little to time learn new technology skills.

We will ask for two teachers per building (for the time being, treating
AGIS as one building) to volunteer to work with either Craig or Joyce in
areas of technology integration of their (the teachers') choosing. The
adopted teachers would meet individually with Craig or Joyce for one
hour to brainstorm ideas that Joyce and Craig might help them to
implement. During this get-acquainted meeting, Joyce or Craig would be
able to suggest some possible things to try; but they would start first
by asking what the teachers' needs are. The needs could be very basic
or more advanced. We place no restrictions, as long as the goal is to
increase the teacher's technology skills.

After the initial one-hour meeting, Craig or Joyce would arrange to
spend some time one-on-one, in the classroom or out, depending on the
needs. A limited amount of after-school time with stipends could be
arranged, if necessary.

Who can say they could not benefit from having such a coach?

We are asking principals and ITLTs to spread the word about this
opportunity. You may do this as you please, by faculty meeting,
forwarding this message, or other means. Volunteers should contact Jo
Anne Davis at davis@avongrove.org. We will choose the first 8 people
who step forward for the month of February, 2003. The commitment would
be for one month. In March we will adopt eight more teachers, if we
have a good experience the first month.

If you or your teachers have questions, you may ask any IT Lead Teacher,
Joyce, Craig, or me.

Thanks for helping get the word out.