Tool # 6

Build television sms voting polls at Poll Everywhere

I liked Poll Everywhere...It's very simple to use and no extra technology is required.

Tool #5

I used Wurdle and Tagxedo.  I was introduced to these at one of our Counselor meetings.  Both would be great tools to use in the classroom...View my finished products to the right.

Tool #4

I started using Google Apps this year.  A form one of our 9th grade teacher teams uses is a parent contact log to document calls made to parents of 9th graders.  The form helps us communicate with each other and monitor students who are in need of intervention.  I also share a Google Doc with my grade level principal to communicate with each other about student grades and attendance.

Tool #3

1 & 2.YouTube is a great resource...The videos I chose are on bullying, a topic that comes up quite often in our line of work.  I feel they accurately depict its effects on young people both inside and outside of the classroom.  Both videos are very powerful.

3.Reviewing copyright and fair use laws is helpful in the process of using these resources in the classroom.

Tool #2

I've discovered many resources out there to learn from and be shared with others, which makes it more enjoyable and interesting.
One new site I plan on visiting more often is NextStepU, which provides a step by step breakdown of the college application process.  Another great feature are the virtual campus tours offered on their blog at http://nextstepu.wordpress.com/.  A new college or university is highlighted almost every other day.
I've also joined ASCA Scene, a networking site for school counselors to stay abreast of best practices and other counseling issues.

Tool #1

Welcome to my blog! I'm looking forward to sharing ideas with students and colleagues.  Please feel free to make comments and suggestions.