Welcome to the BCSD Summer Update. In keeping with the spontaneity of summer, the BCSD Summer Update will be distributed when there are news-worthy items to share. We hope you will enjoy reading about the Blaine County School District as we strive to become a world-class, student focused community of teaching and learning.

The Blaine County School District awarded nearly $320,000 in technology grants to innovative teachers this year. This is the second year that Innovative Technology Grants have been distributed by BCSD.

The Plant Facility Levy, passed in 2009, funded three goals of the BCSD Strategic Plan: Safety/Security, Facilities, and Technology. The first phase of technology funding covered the continued installation of Promethean boards in classrooms. Interactive boards transform classrooms into 21st Century learning centers, increasing student engagement and achievement.

The second phase of technology funding came in the form of grants that allow teachers to pull technology into their classrooms.

"Teachers are often on the receiving end of change, they are told what to do and when to do it. But it is proven that change best occurs when early adopters lead the way. The Innovative Technology Grants put educators in the drivers' seat. Educators are the ones saying, 'we want to try this because we believe it will increase student engagement and learning.' We want to support this kind of thinking with Innovative Technology Grants," said Superintendent Dr. Lonnie Barber.

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Educators Attend Mathematical Thinking Initiative Training  

Mathematical Thinking Initiative training is required for all teachers as part of the re-certification process.

This week, 35 teachers attended a week-long training held at Wood River High School. Teachers from across the Blaine County School District, as well as teachers from Pocatello and Soda Springs, attended the 3-credit class led by Meridian teacher Gaylynn Erb.

Teachers from BCSD included math specialists, art teachers, special education, classroom teachers, high school math and science teachers, and principals.

During a brief visit to the class, instructor Gaylynn Erb threw out this gem - last year's Kindergarten class will never have an ISAT test. How is that for an eye-opener? Erb went on to talk about implementing the Common Core State Standards.  A second MTI training will be held in August.