What's New in Computers at GECDSB?

That would definitely be the Special Assignment Teachers for Computers in the Classroom. In the past, the Windsor Board had the services of four teachers who performed this function. After amalgamation, we're fortunate to extend the program to have the special skills of six individuals who will cover the entire school district.

Their mandate is to assist elementary teachers acquire the necessary computer skills and ideas to effectively implement the electronic Ontario Report Card and assist in the integration of appropriate computer software as Greater Essex County teachers work with the Mathematics and Science & Technology Ontario Curriculum.

A short biography appears below for each.

Janice Blencowe

I have been teaching JK and K French Immersion for the past 7 years. I have also taught K to Grade 8 FSL.

In the last few years I have developed a keen interest in computers and how to use them in the classroom setting.

I enjoy desktop publishing, web page design and presentations.

Stephen ("Steve") Cox

Following 12 years of teaching with a focus on vocal and instrumental music, Steve is currently using his interest and expertise in the area of computers to assist the staff and students at 12 schools in The Greater Essex County District School Board achieve their goals in this key area of the modern curriculum.

One of his guiding principals is the idea that true "computer literacy" means being able to use an accurate understanding of what computer systems are and how they function to accomplish meaningful and unique results. While the dizzying pace of growth in all areas of the world of computers can result in some confusion, a thorough understanding of the basics of these technologies is the best way to learn how to take advantage of this exciting growth.

While Steve has a special familiarity with the use of computerized technology to achieve musical goals, he is also able to help staff and students in all areas of the elementary school communities use computers to enhance their learning opportunities. When hardware and software mesh properly with classroom and curriculum goals, staff and students alike can share in the motivation and sense of achievement this brings. Steve is looking forward to helping reach this goal in as many school settings as possible.

Carla Johnson-Hicks

I came from Oakwood the year before I started as a CAIT. I had been there for 3 years teaching Behaviour Adjustment, both self-contained and integrated. I use the computer for everything I do anymore. I am the editor of the LaSalle Figure Skating Club monthly newsletter. I use the internet to plan all our vacations. I surf with my daughter who is 11 to find out whatever she is looking for at the time, especially Beanie Baby stuff. I have a couple of e-pals that I write too and I just like to check out the new sites and see what is interesting out there. We have 3 computers in our house and my 14 year old son thinks it is time for another one, in his bedroom and more up to date.

Neil Mac Tavish

I have taught for the Essex County Board of Education for the past 20 years. My teaching specialties have been mathematics, geography and physical education at the intermediate level. For the past two years, I have been the computer contact at Ruthven Public School.

I have enjoyed working with computers in both my professional and personal life for many years. My computer interests lie in the areas of web page design, computer presentations, and integrating the use of the Internet into classroom activities. I am looking forward to assisting the staff and students in my 11 appointed schools.

Please visit my web page at http://www.mnsi.net/~neilmact/beach.htm

Dan Mooney

Dan Mooney's interests include sports and gardening. He enjoys spending the warm weather landscaping around his house. Basketball and football are his favourite sports. Dan is a dedicated Toronto Raptor fan and enjoys attending a few games a year.

Ric Woltz

I have taught with the former Essex County Board of Education for 25 years, primarily as a grade 8 home room teacher, although I have taught from JK to grade 8. I have been the computer site contact teacher at Sandwich West Public School for 20 years, where we have 73 networked IBM's, and 17 stand alone units.

I am married, with one son, who will be entering high school this year. My hobbies are golf, computers, hockey and more golf.