Schoolwide Northstar Digital Literacy Integration for Staff & Students
Session 6: 10:30am-11:30am (Saturday March 02, 2024)
Description
In order to address the digital literacy gap, Torrance Adult School has partnered with OTAN to bring access to the Northstar Digital Literacy curriculum and assessments to all stakeholders at the school. While participating in OTAN’s Digital Leadership Academy (DLAC), our team realized the potential of Northstar’s program to support the school’s commitment to maintaining schoolwide digital integration post-COVID. In the 2022 Fall term, TAS introduced Northstar assessments during schoolwide staff meetings. After positive staff feedback about the value of the program, TAS became a Northstar agency, with OTAN’s support, in Winter 23. In Spring 23, weekly paid Northstar professional development sessions allowed all staff to complete a series of modules at their own pace. In Summer 23, teachers and IAs received OTAN training in using the curriculum with all classes starting Fall 23. The goal is to provide essential digital skills training and support schoolwide, for all staff and students.
Presenters
Meredith Tait
Torrance Adult School
Meredith Tait is an ESL teacher and TOSA in the ESL Department at Torrance Adult School. She started teaching high school students in Australia before moving into adult education. She has taught ESL in the US for over 25 years, and is passionate about helping adult learners develop the language skills they need to thrive in a new country and culture. Recent conference presentation experience includes TDLS 2022 and the CAEP Summit 2023.
Hilary Estes
Torrance Adult School
Dr. Hilary Estes is a teacher and TOSA in the ABE/ASE department at Torrance Adult School. She also teaches a Child Development class in partnership with the local community college. She is passionate about adult education's potential to improve people's lives and create a more equitable society. Recent conference presentation experience includes TDLS 2022 and the CAEP Summit 2023.
Ryan Whetstone
Torrance Adult School
Ryan Whetstone is the Principal of Torrance Adult School. After starting out as a CTE computer teacher, he has worked in a number of teaching and administrative positions around California. He is passionate about adult education's potential to be a force for equity. Recent conference presentation experience includes TDLS 2022 and the CAEP Summit 2023.
Type of Presentation
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Audience
- Teachers
- Administrators
- Support Staff or Other Staff (Transition Specialists, Counselors, Librarians, etc.)
Program Strands
- Adult Basic Education
- Adult Secondary Education
- English as a Second Language
- Workforce Preparation
Category Strands
- Ensuring Equity and Access
- Digital Learning Foundations
- Online Engagement and Assessment