"A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning." -Brad Henry Mrs. Cadena loves to teach! She has been doing it for 10 years already. She has taught 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades, and she has never enjoyed teaching as much as in her time at Schmitt Elementary, thanks to the awesome staff and students. She has loved playing around with her new Chromebook, exploring all the possibilities that Itslearning and Google Docs can bring to her students. Mrs. Cadena is married to a crazy Colombian named Fernando, who works with Elwood Staffing and is currently studying for his MBA. They have lived in Columbus for a little over 2 years and hope to start a family sometime soon. In her spare time, Mrs. Cadena loves to read, exercise, spend time with friends and family, go to church, and go on motorcycle rides with her husband. One of her most favorite things is the daily dose of hugs she gets from all of her students. It's enough to brighten any gloomy day.
UDL in Action
Students in Mrs. Cadena's 4th grade classroom recently explored Indiana History in stations. At one station, students had the option to draw the Indiana flag, flower, bird, etc. OR, they could find these images utilizing their chromebooks, and insert them into a Google Doc. This provided students with options for physical action (vary the methods for response and navigation), as well as providing options for expression and communication.
Low Tech - No Tech
At one station, students were given the option to do a few calisthenics to "awaken their brains". Students were observed doing a few push-ups and jumping jacks and then tackling their next task. This helped students minimize distractions and self-regulate, as they were able to change the pace for a few moments and take a "brain break".
Josh Giebel---CSA New Tech
I have been a mathematics facilitator at CSA for the past 6 years and I couldn't be happier. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin (GO BADGERS!) with a degree in Secondary Mathematics Education in 2010 and am currently pursuing my Masters Degree in Secondary Mathematics Education at Ball State University. When I'm not working, you will probably find me outside, at the climbing gym, reading, or cheering on my favorite Wisconsin sports teams!
Relevancy and Options
Students in Mr. Geibel's Calculus class recently explored movie revenue as it relates to calculus. They used data from the National Association of Theater Owners to develop a model comparing admissions to ticket prices. Students then had options (itslearning, Google Docs, pencil/paper) to report out their findings. Mr. Giebel emphasized that students should choose an option that works best for them. Scaffolds were in place for the students to access on itslearning. By choosing a relevant topic for high schoolers, providing options, and putting scaffolds in place, Mr. Giebel provided options for comprehension (activate and supply background knowledge), physical action (vary the methods of response and navigation), expression and communication (use multiple media for construction and composition) and recruiting interest.
Low Tech - No Tech
Mr. Geibel gives students options when it comes to accessing information. While computers are always available, students also are allowed and encouraged to use print textbooks if they choose. Students also had the choice to work independently, in a group of peers, or in a small group with Mr. Giebel facilitating.
You may also contact your building UDL Facilitator or one of the UDL Coordinators for further assistance.