Category Archives: Resources To Other Resources

This category takes people to resources that have many other resources.

Prioritizing Tasks by Adding Importance in Microsoft To-Do

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Microsoft To-Do is a tool available to any staff in LCPS that invites users to create To Do Lists. Some tasks added to a list may be more important or timely than others. Users can add priority to individual tasks in a list by starring which are deemed important. Once starred, users can view all the prioritized tasks in the important smart list. Users can also sort each list by importance to have starred tasks automatically move to the top of the list. The Add steps, importance, notes, tags, and categories to your tasks website provides support for how to add importance to tasks.

This image shows a digital to-do list with columns for "Title," "Due Date," and "Importance." Each task is listed with a circle to the left, likely for marking completion. The "Importance" column uses star icons, with more stars indicating higher importance.The tasks listed are: Charge Chromebook: It's almost dead, and I'll need it in class. (High importance) Get a parent signature: For the field trip permission slip. (High importance) Clean out my backpack: Get rid of old papers and organize folders. (High importance) Write English paragraph: Finish the rough draft of my personal narrative. (Medium importance) Practice tuba: 15 minutes for band class. (Medium importance) Text Emma: Ask her about the group presentation. (Medium importance) Pack gym clothes: Bring sneakers for PE tomorrow. (Medium importance) Work on history project: Find 3 pictures for my Civil War poster. (Medium importance) Study for science quiz: Review notes on the water cycle. (Medium importance) Finish math homework: Page 42, problems 1-20. (Medium importance)

A Sample To Do List with Starred Items at the Top

Microsoft To-Do: Adding a Reminder

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In Microsoft To-Do, add reminders to a task to get alerts as the due date approaches. This feature is perfect for managing everything from daily errands to long-term projects, helping users stay organized and complete tasks on time. The Add due dates and reminder in Microsoft To Do website provides step-by-step instructions for how to get started.

This image shows a digital task or to-do list item with the title "Turn in the Butterfly project." Below the title are the following options:Add step: A plus sign (+) indicating the ability to add subtasks. Added to My Day: A sun icon indicating the task has been added to a "My Day" list or view. Remind me: A bell icon for setting a reminder. Add due date: A calendar icon for setting a due date. Repeat: A circular arrow icon for setting up a recurring task. To the right of the title is a star icon, likely for marking the task as important or a favorite.

Set reminders and due dates in Microsoft To Do

Outlining Narrative Elements with a Mindmap Using Lucid

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One strategy to organize elements of a traditional outline is mind mapping. Starting with a central idea, such as a core theme or main character, a mind map demonstrates connections by branching out in different directions. Each branch can represent a character arc, a plot point, setting details, or any aspect of a related detail to create a visualization demonstrating relationships among narrative elements. 

Whether outlining a novel, screenplay, or even a short story, this approach lets you see the big picture while zooming in on intricate narrative threads. By the end, the mind map not only serves as a roadmap for the writing journey but also as a visual storyboard that captures the essence of the narrative vision. Lucid is one tool available in Loudoun County Public Schools that can be used to create mind maps. Lucid provides templates to get you started, like this one titled Sample Mind Map.

A screenshot of a digital mind map. A central node labeled "Main Idea" has three branches extending from it, each with sub-branches and icons. The branches appear to represent different aspects or categories related to the main idea. Text within the nodes is partially visible, suggesting brainstorming or idea development.

Mind map

The Specialized Instructional Facilitators – Assistive Technology & Assistive Technology Specialist Are At Your Service

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The Specialized Instructional Facilitators – Assistive Technology & Assistive Technology Specialist for Loudoun County Public Schools created this brief video demonstrating examples of how they can support educators, learners, and the community. You can contact them by going to the LCPS AT Service Directory. They’re at your service!

Learning About Braille with Lego Braille Brick Kits

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The LEGO® Braille Bricks is a play-based approach that teaches Braille to anyone using Lego bricks. LEGO® Braille Bricks have studs arranged to correspond to numbers and letters in Braille. Each brick shows the printed version of the symbol or letter inviting sighted and blind children to play and learn together. Lego provides resources for implementation and kits for free to educators.

The National Educational Technology Plan of 2024

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The U.S. Department of Education recently released the 2024 National Educational Technology Plan (NETP): A Call to Action for Closing the Digital Access, Design and Use Divides. It provides a vision for how the consideration and implementation of educational technology can transform teaching and learning to provide increased opportunities and access to all learners. The plan features numerous examples of how educators have adopted Universal Design for Learning and accessibility as an integral part of instruction, assessment, and culture to the benefit of each learner they support.

New Federal Guidance Regarding Assistive Technology

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The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and the Office of Educational Technology have recently released a set of guidance documents specific to Assistive Technology (AT). These resources, available at https://sites.ed.gov/idea/idea-files/at-guidance, are designed to promote the understanding and implementation of Assistive Technology in educational settings. The guidance documents delve into the nuances of consideration and implementation of assistive technology in a format that uses facts to dispel common myths and misconceptions. Enjoy reviewing these documents to clarify your own understanding of Assistive Technology and consider sharing this resource with other educators, families, and members of the community.

Lovettsville Elementary School’s Unity Squad Become Communication Partner Peers

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Learners at Lovettsville Elementary School engaged in an experience where they explored augmentative/alternative communication. Led by Specialized Instructional Facilitator – Assistive Technology, John Millar, and supported by an ensemble of other educators, students explored the Language Acquisition Through Motor Planning: Words for Life application. The students learned how the app was organized, explored how to find words, and discussed what it means to be a supportive communication partner to their peers who are using the application to help them learn language. What follows are actual quotes from those who participated:

“It must be really hard if you can’t communicate with words. This helped the kids use THEIR voice. One day they’ll be better at talking, but for now, these devices really help them.” – Mario, 5th Grade

A man standing in front of student seated in chairs at a kidney table. The man is holding an iPad with an AAC application on it.

Mr. Millar demonstrates the Language Acquisition Through Motor Planning: Words For Life app

“I thought it was really fun. I had a great experience with the kids. I felt like it was good for someone in their school to be able to help them. I think they felt like they were happy to have older kids hang out with them.” – Mario, 5th Grade

A fifth grade student sitting next to a younger students both with communication devices

Communication partners explore language on AAC together.

If you’re interested in leading a similar event, reach out to the Specialized Instructional Facilitator – Assistive Technology who works at your school!

STEMIEFest 2022

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STEMIEFest LogoRegistration for the 2022 STEMIEFest is now open! This virtual conference is organized by STEM Innovation for Inclusion in Early Education (STEMIE). STEMIEFest is an opportunity for families, early childhood and early childhood special education professionals, and other educators to participate in learning experiences related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) as well as construct a model to support young children, with and without disabilities, in STEM learning. The 2022 event will runs from 12pm – 4pm EST on December 8th, 2022. Experience archived events from previous STEMIEFests as well!