How did Rock Valley pull this off with such little time? The idea was introduced early in the morning, leaving enough time to get approval quickly from the superintendent. The teachers were then immediately notified of the plans for the pajama PD day and told that instructions with links would come to them via email.
The district used the app and website, Nearpod, which allowed them to upload slides with audio, video, and website links. They also used Google Docs and the district’s community on edWeb.net to answer questions and collaborate with each other.
According to Langenhorst, “You don’t want delivery methods (of PD) that are constant every time; otherwise, you will get teachers that are sick of it.” This new delivery method of PD was refreshing and fun, said the teachers—and with Snapchats, social media posts, texts, and phone calls, the response to the pajama PD day was overwhelmingly positive.
As for pajama PD in the future, the teachers said are already looking forward to the next snow day.
About the Guest
Rachel Langenhorst is a K-12 technology integrationist and instructional coach in Rock Valley, IA and she also serves as an adjunct professor for Northwestern College. A 20+ year teaching veteran, Rachel presents throughout the Midwest, focusing on technology integration strategies and best practices. She serves as a contributor for Mackin Educational Resources, edWeb.net, and Education Talk Radio. Find Rachel on Twitter @rlangenhorst and on her blog at Tech from the Trenches.
For more ideas on personalized PD, watch “Implementing a Personalized PD Program in Your District.”
[Editor’s note: This piece is original content produced by edWeb.net. View more edWeb.net events here.]
