The Exploring Technology, Exploring Engineering Design, and Exploring Technological Systems courses are project-based. Therefore, it is imperative that each student comes to class prepared, ready to learn, and participates each day.  During the school year students will need to purchase materials to complete several projects. The fee will cover the cost of all necessary materials for each project. Once the projects are completed students will be allowed to take them home.

To ensure that the technology classroom environment is truly beneficial for learning, there are certain behaviors that are expected from each student.

Student Expectations:

 * Be on time and prepared for class each day. Each student is expected to have the following everyday:

1. Pencil/Pen
2. Electronic Notebook (tablet)

* Raise your hand to speak or move from workstation

* Respect the people and equipment in the classroom

* Follow the posted classroom rules

*NO FOOD OR DRINK IN THE CLASSROOM

Consequences:

*Verbal Warning

*Verbal Warning and conference with teacher

*Parent Contact/after school detention

*Office Referral

*Severe Disruptions “Bounced” to another class

Classroom Promptness:

Once a student receives 3 tardies they will be assigned after school detention.

Grading Scale:

A = 90-100            B = 80-89              C = 70-79               D = 60-69              F = 0-59

ALL assignments are expected to be completed and turned in by the given deadline.  Unexcused late work will only be able to receive a maximum of 60%.

Canvas:

All assignments and TECH ED class related info is posted on Canvas. This resource is used as a tool on a daily bases in our class.

Personalized Learning:

 Here at Southeast Middle School we are changing the focus from teaching to the learner. It is not about reforming our educational system. It is about transforming teaching and learning. To ensure deeper learning, encourage problem solving/thinking skills, develop and nurture highly motivated and engaged learners we are driven to move forward with Personalized Learning. In Technology Education we are showing students how to do the following:

• Actively engages in his or her development, growth opportunities and goals
• Work with teachers to co-create a customized learning plan to reach content mastery and that leverages his or her strengths
• Accesses engaging and standards-aligned curricula that supports his or her academic, social, and emotional needs through a variety of delivery methods
• Effective personalized learning will create life-long learners that graduate prepared for success in college and career.

The overall outcome is for my students to explore how they learn and seek to take ownership of their learning based on their individual learning styles and preferences.

To assist your child in developing improved problem-solving skills, each student is asked to purchase and construct small problem-solving projects.  Students will individually construct activity-based projects, various small problem-solving and design projects this semester. These projects are outlined in detail in the “Course Outlook” handout provided during Open House.

I look forward to working with you to make this a successful year for your student! If you have any questions, comments and/or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me by phone 336-674-4280 or email at sandera@gcsnc.com.