Introduce Yourself

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Cori Frede

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Mar 13, 2019, 9:08:10 PM3/13/19
to GEG Eastern PA
As we migrate from Google Communities to Google Groups, please introduce yourself to the group. Try to include one non-technology related interesting fact about yourself.

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I'm Cori. I currently teach 9th grade computer literacy in Philadelphia but I an instructional technology specialist. I am a Google for Education Certified Innovator, GTAATX14 and a Google for Education Certified Trainer. Additionally I am also a Microsoft Innovative Education Expert.

My interesting fact is that I attended Space Academy for Educators (Space Camp) last year.

Jon Craig

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Mar 13, 2019, 9:28:18 PM3/13/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Jon, instructional coach, Bucks County, PA.  Google Certified 1/2.  I have coached high school or college football for 15 years.

Richard Hamilton

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Mar 13, 2019, 9:32:29 PM3/13/19
to GEG Eastern PA
I’m Ricky. I’m a Technology Support Specialist in York, PA.

When I’m not working on tech, I’m usually attending various pop-punk shows in the PA/MD area. \m/

Brad Lieberman

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Mar 13, 2019, 9:46:28 PM3/13/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hey Jon - good to see you here!

Teri Anger

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Mar 13, 2019, 9:46:59 PM3/13/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Teri - I teach Introduction to technology for 9th and Biology for 10th in Philly. I am Google certified level 1. Interesting fact: I used to be a zookeeper before teaching. 

Charlie Gerancher

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Mar 14, 2019, 6:58:45 AM3/14/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hi Everyone, I'm Charlie. I'm a full-time computer education teacher in a grades 2/3 elementary school and a part-time tech coach. I work in the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania. 

Jennifer Yavorsky Tamburlin

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Mar 14, 2019, 7:22:17 AM3/14/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hey guys!  Jen Tamburlin here.  Spanish teacher from rural Elk County PA.   Instructional Technology Coach, Google Certified Trainer, Dance Team Coach, World Traveler & Doodle Mom. 

@SraTamburlin on Twitter!   

Brad Steigerwalt

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Mar 14, 2019, 7:59:05 AM3/14/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Brad Steigerwalt, Techy Music teacher from Northampton PA.  I also facilitate the schools's TV Studio.  I run the #KTIChat for the Keystone Technology Innovators.  Interesting non-tech Fact:  When I tried to propose to my girlfriend (now my wife), we were involved in a hot air balloon wreck.

Brad Lieberman

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Mar 14, 2019, 9:22:00 AM3/14/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hello - looking forward to learning and sharing with all of you!  K-12 Instructional Technology Specialist in Upper Dublin, PA (Philly suburbs) for the past 8 years.  Prior to that, I taught middle-school science.  Oh, and I can wiggle my ears without touching them. 

Erica Stefanovich

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Mar 14, 2019, 9:42:54 AM3/14/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hey all!

I'm Erica.  I teach History and humanities at a magnet high school in Philadelphia.  I'm a Nearpod PioNear and a KTI Star.

My non-tech fact is that I play Dungeons and Dragons and I'm currently starting a D&D club at my school


Carol Persin

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Mar 14, 2019, 12:19:16 PM3/14/19
to GEG Eastern PA
I'm Carol. This is my 5th year as a technology integration specialist. I'm crashing the group from Western PA (there is no GEG group for us out here). I work with teachers K-12 in a school just outside of Pittsburgh. I originally grew up in Chester County and attended Tredyffrin Easttown School District. Besides being an L1 & L2, I obtained my Google Certified Trainer certificate last June. 

Some non tech things about me:  I have a retired racing Greyhound and a 7th month old son who was born 2 months premature last August. In my free time, I like to lift weights and take CrossFit classes. I love being a part of this group! I always get helpful answers and new ideas.

Cori Frede

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Mar 15, 2019, 7:39:10 PM3/15/19
to GEG Eastern PA
You're not crashing Carol. We have members from all across the state. We actually tried to (a) get a second group started or (b) change this groups name to PA but neither worked out officially. So although our name is Eastern PA, all are welcome.

Megan Hood

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Mar 18, 2019, 10:33:08 AM3/18/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hello!
My name is Meg Hood. I teach first and second grade at Octorara Area School District in Atglen, PA.  I also am an instructor for PD Campus and teach blended learning graduate courses on G-Suite and iPads.  This group has provided me with lots of ideas and tips so THANK YOU!

Love the beach and I love to run with friends so I'm looking forward to an upcoming race in Wildwood with my girlfriends!

Charles Dittrich

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Apr 3, 2019, 9:48:40 AM4/3/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hi,
My name is Charley and I teach secondary social studies at a high school in south central PA, outside York. I'm Google cert 1/2 and Nearpod certified educator. I also play and run Dungeons and Dragons and advise a Comic Book Club at school.

Joseph Calamita

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Apr 3, 2019, 12:07:50 PM4/3/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hi,  I'm Joe Calamita an Application Specialist at Exeter Township School District.  I support all the web based technologies in our district (what isn't web based these days...)  My interesting fact is before doing tech stuff, I worked as Assistant Dean of Students at a college.

Daniel Kaufmann

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Apr 3, 2019, 3:04:16 PM4/3/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Dan. I am an Instructional Math Coach K-12 for the Wilson SD (outside of Reading). I was also a tech coach for a few seasons and spent less than a decade teaching high school mathematics. 

Suzanne Casey

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Apr 5, 2019, 2:20:00 PM4/5/19
to GEG Eastern PA
Hello from South Jersey. I have been a K-8 Tech teacher/Coordinator for last 18 yrs. Co-coach Lego League robotics club & recently started a Dungeons & Dragons club at school.
I am a huge SciFi fan.

Aylin Direskeneli

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Apr 29, 2020, 12:07:32 PM4/29/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello!  I'm Aylin from Virginia.  I did not see a GEG in Virginia or neighboring states.  I joined the PA one.  Is this GEG still active?  I don't see messages past march 2019.  I teach English as a Second Language in South East VA at the secondary level.  We are teaching language online right now.  It is not going well.  Most of our students are immigrants or refugees and do not have access to the internet at home.  Are PA teachers doing online instruction during the quarantine?  How is it going for you?

Courtney Roberts

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Apr 29, 2020, 12:25:21 PM4/29/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi Aylin, 

I just joined this group so I am not sure if they are active, but it does seem like it is not active. I teach elementary art and am an ESL teacher as well in Pennsylvania. Our district also has a large percentage of students who do not have internet access. I only have one ELL in my small district. I have been meeting with this student on zoom once per week. I am sure it is challenge to teach speaking lessons online.  I was contemplating having more students join the zoom so that the ELL student can practice conversational skills. 

Good Luck!

Courtney Roberts

Cori Frede

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Apr 29, 2020, 12:46:18 PM4/29/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi Aylin and Courtney,

We are still active, but a little quiet. When G+ shutdown, many of our members re-joined this group but haven't been posting as much. I would love to get us back to our glory days.

Last week we hosted a virtual coffee hour on Google Meet, which I advertised on Twitter, @GEGPennsylvania since that seems to be where more people are following at the current time. 

If you have any ideas for events, please feel free to share. You can also start a new topic post here in the group to ask questions. If people have the email or digest setting on they'll get emails about new posts and possibly come back to the group.

Regards,
Cori

Jennifer Reeves

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Apr 30, 2020, 10:15:58 AM4/30/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi my name is Jennifer and I teach in southern Chester county.  Interests include boating, dancing and learning all I can about including technology in my teaching.  

Jared Rastoka

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May 1, 2020, 11:40:51 AM5/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I am Jared, Physics teacher at Carmichaels School district.  Looking to become google certified.  Right now I should be cleaning up my classroom for the summer.  

Jennifer Yavorsky Tamburlin

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May 1, 2020, 11:54:47 AM5/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
¡Hola!  I'm Jennifer Tamburlin.  Spanish Teacher, K-12 Technology Coach at St. Marys Area School District in Elk County PA.   I am a Google Certified Trainer, World Traveler, Dog Mom & Hip Hop Dancer/Choreographer.  So excited that the group expanded out west!!! 

Elizabeth Popielarcheck

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May 1, 2020, 12:55:32 PM5/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi!  My name is Liz.  I am a special education teacher in the Carmichaels Area School District.  I've been using Google Classroom for years.  I have experience using Blackboard and Campus, but Google Classroom is by far my favorite online educational platform for instruction.  I'm anxious to learn how to utilize the various tools that accompany Google Suite and use them to maximize my students' learning experiences.  I am grateful for the opportunity to earn my Google certification.  

Heather Szymczak

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May 3, 2020, 3:07:02 PM5/3/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello Everyone!  My name is Heather and I teach 5th grade Reading, Language and Science.  I was a kindergarten teacher for 13 years and worked in early childhood education for 21 total years before moving to 5th grade last year.  I am currently working on my Level 1 Google Certification.  

Theresa Cooper

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May 4, 2020, 4:27:34 AM5/4/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi- I'm Tracey and I have been teaching high school math for 18 years.  I teach in Stafford, VA-no GEG here and I have a soft spot for PA.  Working on Google Certification 1.  I had a house painting business prior to teaching.

Arlen Kimmelman

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May 4, 2020, 8:05:23 AM5/4/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello, I'm Arlen Kimmelman, a certified HS Librarian, aka Techbrarian, in a South Jersey school district. I've been a certified school librarian since 2006; prior to that I was an English teacher for 16 years. Prior to that I was a trainer in non-profits. I'm a Google Certified Trainer since 2018, a Nationally Board Certified Teacher since 2009, and a past-president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians. 

Susan Takach

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May 4, 2020, 12:26:21 PM5/4/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello! 
I am currently a Principal for Adelphoi Education,  students in grades K-12, I was a teacher for 24 years prior to becoming a Principal last year. I am looking forward to being a part of this group so we can share ideas!  We are currently working from home as I am sure most are during this Pandemic.

Bill David

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May 6, 2020, 6:37:29 AM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello everyone,

My name is Bill David, I am the principal of North Penn - Mansfield High School in North Central PA.

Sherry Sillings

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May 6, 2020, 8:44:25 AM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi. I’m Sherry, a 6th grade reading teacher at McKeesport Area school District, near Pittsburgh.  I am currently working on my Google Level One certification, which is where I learned about this group. 

Aymee Silverthorn

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May 6, 2020, 10:06:14 AM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Aymeejeanette and I teach third grade in Virginia. There are no GEG groups in my state and I would like to begin one and am looking to find out how to begin. Anyone have any advice? Thank you!

Nicole Hetrick

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May 6, 2020, 10:26:53 AM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I have been a secondary English and journalism teacher for 20+ years.  Although I use technology in my classroom, I feel that I lack a true understanding of how to maximize the effectiveness of these tools.  Most of what I know about the technology that I use comes from simply hopping into an app and trying to figure out how to do the task at hand.  

My goal is to take a more structured approach about how to use these tools professionally and personally.  In a word:  efficiency. 

I need to admit that I spend very little screen time in my life.  I never watched TV on a regular basis and rarely do I scroll through my phone to pass time. 

I enjoy spending my time immersed in the natural world.




Susan Cazillo

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May 6, 2020, 11:33:27 AM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Susan. I'm an instructor at our local one stop, PA CareerLink of Lancaster County. I develop and lead workshops for job searchers.

My interesting fact is that I was a cosmetologist in my first career.

Louise Sweeney

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May 6, 2020, 11:39:04 AM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi my name is Louise. I am a 4th grade math teacher in the West Greene School District. I am currently working on my Level 1 certification.

Connie Kilcoin

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May 6, 2020, 12:45:58 PM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi Everybody,

I'm Connie.  I teach HS Math in a small school in Northern Butler County.  I found this group as I was going through the fundamental training for Google.  I figured I would get my certification since this may be our norm for the future.  One non-tech thing about me is that I LOVE to craft!

Janet DeMarco

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May 6, 2020, 6:50:58 PM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello everyone! I'm Janet I teach 4th-grade math and am working on my level Google Certificate.

Allison Hritz

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May 6, 2020, 6:53:57 PM5/6/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello! I'm Allison and I'm currently STUDYING how to be a teacher (Senior Secondary Social Studies Education major). I found this group when going through my Google certification training. I can't wait to learn from you all and also help contribute perspective ☺️

Michael Juliano

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May 7, 2020, 10:42:23 AM5/7/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello!  Mike Juliano from Carmichaels Area School District in SWPA.  I teach High School Math.

Meghan Busby

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May 7, 2020, 2:13:32 PM5/7/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Meghan Busby, I am a Teacher-Librarian for Hannah Penn K8 in York, PA. We are a little urban district situated between Harrisburg and Baltimore, Philly and Lancaster. I have classes of PreK and Headstart students, Kindergartners through Eighth graders, and lots of Special Education students. I have been teaching for twenty years, in a variety of settings. I have taught first grade, First grade ELL self-contained, ELL pullout, and Library to PreK through Eighth grades. I really love teaching in the Library because I get to enjoy all the cool features of every grade, and help them learn about how to learn!

Nancy Scarton

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May 7, 2020, 2:27:55 PM5/7/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Nancy. I teach at Somerset County Technology Center in Somerset, PA. Looking to get my Google Certification. Good to meet everyone

JULIE QUICK

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May 7, 2020, 2:35:39 PM5/7/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi, I'm Julie.  I am in North Central PA- Montouorsville Area High School.  I have been teaching for 15 years- Civics and Government and Psychology.  I am working on my Goggle Certification now :)

Jennifer Walker

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May 7, 2020, 2:43:09 PM5/7/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi. I'm Jenn. I teach in downtown Pittsburgh, high school business and technology. I am putting together curriculum for a computer science program to be introduced to our school starting next year. I am working through my Level 1 Google Certification right now.
Cori, I would LOVE to attend Space Academy for Educators.  I adore that stuff. My interesting fact would be....I just started teaching last year at the mature age of 49.  Who says you can't teach an older- ish dog new tricks. :)  

Arlin Roth

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May 7, 2020, 3:27:43 PM5/7/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I work as a K-12 instructional technology specialist at Bellefonte Area School District. We use G Suite for all students and employees and provide Chromebooks to all of our students. I am fortunate to have a team of teachers who spend part of their time as tech coaches in their buildings. I also have support from an outstanding IT department and an impressive admin team.
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Beth Cohen

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May 8, 2020, 9:38:01 AM5/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi everyone!
I'm a HS Librarian and AP Research teacher from the Philly suburbs.  I'm certified Google Levels 1&2 (considering Trainer) and in several other edtech apps and tools. 
Fun fact - I have a working harpsichord in my living room!

Jon Craig

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May 8, 2020, 9:45:32 AM5/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Jon Craig, SS teacher turned instructional coach, turned HS assistant principal, my entire career has been at Harry S Truman High School in Levittown, PA.  I spent 13 years as a high school football coach, including 3 as a head coach.  My wife and I are obsessed with The Office.  Hope you are all safe and well.

Michael Killmeyer

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May 8, 2020, 12:58:06 PM5/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello everyone! My name is Mike Killmeyer and I am the Regional Administrator for the North Hills Regional Catholic Elementary Schools (NHRCES). 
We are located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. NHRCES is made up of 5 Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Pittsburgh and we all use the G-suit in our classrooms. 
I am trying to set up a discussion board for our 125 teachers to use as a collaborative discussion board.  Any ideas and pitfalls to avoid would be greatly appreciated!
I'm happy to join this group and I look forward to making some connections with fellow educators.

Peter Raatz

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May 8, 2020, 2:47:24 PM5/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello Everyone! My name is Peter Raatz. I'm a 7-12 Social Studies Teacher from Lakeview Middle High School in Stoneboro, PA. I'm a Google Certified Trainer.

I rolled out GSuite for my last district and have become a defacto professional development coordinator for all things Google along with a colleague of mine.

In my not tech life, I enjoy cooking, travel, and reading SciFi.

Catherine Mentzer

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May 8, 2020, 2:49:16 PM5/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello There,
Catherine Mentzer from Fairfield Area School District here.  Teaching k-8 Technology Education. 20+ yrs in education ranging from 4-6th grade self contained all subjects to subject specific for 5th and 6th grade, to where I am today.  If you have not investigated and connected with a CAP (Civil Air Patrol) program, I highly recommend it for starter materials.  

Peter Raatz

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May 8, 2020, 2:53:37 PM5/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Michael,

Maybe instead of a discussion board you could try creating a Google Site. The website could act as a hub for all the great tech you and your teachers are finding. You can link how-to videos that you find or create, curate the space into different tabs or subpages, etc.

Just a thought!

Dr. Melissa Thompson

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May 9, 2020, 12:09:45 PM5/9/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi!  I'm Melissa, current kindergarten (soon to be teacher leader) in Philadelphia.  

Kristina Gibbs

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May 11, 2020, 7:38:39 AM5/11/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi! I'm Kris. I am a 5th grade teacher in Virginia and currently wading my way through the google certification lessons. 

Katie Twichell

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May 11, 2020, 9:04:06 PM5/11/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello I'm Katie.  I teach special education in the primary grades in Woodland Hills (outside of Pittsburgh).  I am currently getting my level 1 certification.

My interesting fact is that I have worked in six different states, but only taught in one.

Robert Malcolm

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May 13, 2020, 1:43:05 PM5/13/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi, my name is Robert, but most people call me Bear (nickname growing up).  I teach AP maths and sciences among other classes at Greater Johnstown SHS in Johnstown PA.  We were recently nudged into using Google classrooms, but I'd like to do more with it when (if) we return in the fall. 

Amey Johnson

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May 13, 2020, 2:06:07 PM5/13/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi! I'm Amey, currently teaching 7th grade geography, 7th grade Library Media Skills, 8th grade keyboarding, Intro and Advanced photography and co-teaching Yearbook and Photography. I work at Northeast Bradford Junior Senior High; we're a GAFE school, online learning is a whole different beast! My interesting fact is that I really enjoy attempting bird and nature photography.

Peter Raatz

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May 13, 2020, 3:14:26 PM5/13/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Welcome Bear! If you have any questions as you start to explore, let me know. Glad to have you!

Linda Wakeman

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May 13, 2020, 3:49:07 PM5/13/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello my name is Linda Wakeman. I am a first year teacher in Northern Virginia. My class is 4th grade, teaching all subjects. I joke with my fellow teachers that I am in Google Purgatory. I’m trying to learn and grow using Google. It seems like we will be doing this distance learning for a while..
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TraceyAnn Smith

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May 13, 2020, 10:21:01 PM5/13/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello from Arbutus, Maryland. (I hope it’s okay to join-this is the closet GEG to me.)
My name is TraceyAnn, and I teach 6th grade ELA and 5th grade social studies at a very small private middle school for under-privileged girls from Baltimore City. We are a 5th-8th grade school.
We are getting Chromebooks for next year and will be 1:1.I have just been asked to be the Instructional Technology lead for the school-we aren’t using ANY of the G suite tools...right now the school uses Microsoft 365 (minimally).
Interesting fact: when I’m not in the classroom, I’m stage managing a play/musical for one of our local community theatres.

Hannah Swartwood

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May 14, 2020, 1:06:47 PM5/14/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi everyone! 

My name is Hannah Swartwood and I am a first year teacher in a small, rural elementary school in North Central PA. I teach second grade. 
Due to COVID19, we have moved to online enrichment and review to finish out this year and have been planning for the "just in case" situation that we may end up being digital in the fall, as well. I just started my Google Certified Educator level I course this week and that's how I found this group! 

My interesting fact is that I am certified in PreK-4 gen. ed and PreK-8 Special Ed. I love working with all students! 

I am so excited to join this group! 

Shay Quigley

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May 14, 2020, 2:51:42 PM5/14/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi everyone!

I'm Shay, an Educational Technology Specialist at a private school in Chester county.

I love to run and read. I'm always looking for fiction and nonfiction recommendations!
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Christina Geho

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May 14, 2020, 7:24:02 PM5/14/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
My Name is Christina and I am a Special Education teacher at McGuffey High School, which is in Claysville, PA. I teach learning support math 9-12 and co-teach whatever else I get scheduled for.
I talked my husband into using our "honeymoon" money to buy Super Bowl XLIII tickets instead of saving for an Alaskan cruise.

Nicole Trubilla

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May 14, 2020, 8:00:20 PM5/14/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Nicole. I currently teach 9th grade ELA in Hamburg, and am shifting to a "personalized learning" approach. I am currently working on my Google Certified teacher certificate, which is how I found this group.

One interesting fact about me is that I am obsessed with the Harry Potter series! :) 

Brian Stevens

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May 17, 2020, 4:32:26 PM5/17/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Brian. I'm the librarian at Plum Senior High School. I am trying to get my Level I Google Certification. My interesting fact is that I like to read and run, but not at the same time.

Mr. MacKelvey

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May 17, 2020, 8:08:30 PM5/17/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hey PA Crew-My name is Connor, a 3rd year educator in the Erie Area teaching 4th Grade Mathematics/Science. I am currently earning my Masters in K-8 Mathematics/Science from Slippery Rock University; where I earned my undergrad. I found this GEG as I earn my Google Certification (1) for one of my Grad classes. I currently coach cross country and track & field for my district. A fun fact about me is that I student taught at Scoil Mhuire Ballyboden in Dublin, Ireland, and spent my first year teaching at All Saints Cathedral School on the island of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

Lynn Holmes

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May 19, 2020, 3:23:41 PM5/19/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi, my name is Lynn Holmes.I have taught every elementary grade for at least a year,but this is my first year teaching STEM to K-5 students in Yardley,PA. We use Project Lead The Way Curriculum and supplement with challenges. Half of the year is coding with Tynker and Scratch JR. My personal factoid is that I designed and sewed my daughter's wedding dress. 

Christian Cloud

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May 19, 2020, 6:07:27 PM5/19/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Greetings! Christian, Instructional Technology Coach @ a Philadelphia area Indy School. With all the changes recently, I decided to re-up my GCE. My focus is on Lower School and I previously was a classroom teacher. Nice to e-meet everyone!

Luis Vanderhorst

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May 20, 2020, 10:58:58 AM5/20/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello Everyone, I'm Luis. I am currently pursuing a Master's degree to become a Instructional Technology Specialist. I teach 7th grade Social Studies in Reading. I learned about this group as I am going through the Google Education Certification course. My interesting fact is that I have a side business where I buy houses that need to be rehabbed using none of my money.

Dawn Bodinski

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May 20, 2020, 1:27:54 PM5/20/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi everyone, I am Dawn, I teach Environmental Science (9th grade) and Biology (10 grade) in Souther Virginia.  I am currently in my 15th year of teaching and always looking for new ideas to help me engage my students.  My interesting fact: I am an avid birder!

Stan Jones

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May 21, 2020, 9:10:34 AM5/21/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello everyone--I am Stan and I currently teach students instrumental music at the high school level, but I am making the move to middle school next year!  I currently live in PA, but I teach in MD.  I just finished my GCE Level 1 and I really enjoyed the course.  I am going to jump right in to Level 2 and see how I can be of help to my school and district while we are game planning for our approach to the fall.  

Shima Smith

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May 22, 2020, 10:33:54 AM5/22/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi! Jashima, elementary teacher in Virginia. I am a career switcher finishing up my 5th year of teaching. I have just started the Level 1 training and I am excited to connect with fellow educators!

Debbie de Forest

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May 23, 2020, 4:41:53 PM5/23/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Debbie and live in Michigan. We don't have a GEG group here. I'm currently taking a Google course to renew my teaching credential. I taught 6th grade in CA and since moving to Michigan I only sub and teach business courses online.
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Adrienne Hoffman

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May 23, 2020, 5:01:33 PM5/23/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Adrienne and I currently am the K-5 STEAM facilitator in Ebensburg (in between State College and Pittsburgh).  I am currently involved in becoming a level one Google Certified Educator.

One interesting fact is that I play the trumpet in my church's worship team!

Gerald Aungst

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May 24, 2020, 12:55:04 PM5/24/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Gerald. Good to see some familiar faces here! Gifted support and Makerspace teacher for a K-4 school in Montgomery County. Recently Google Certified Levels 1 & 2. Working on the Trainer course now and looking to connect with other Google educators. KTI 2019, published author.

Fun fact: I'm a Dungeon Master for a group of teachers that plays D&D every week.

Leah Boni

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May 25, 2020, 2:08:27 AM5/25/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I teach K-4 ESL in Monroeville, PA. Currently working on Google Certification 1. Excited about learning how to better use technology to enhance my students' learning. Fun fact: I love to sing and sing professionally.

Peter Raatz

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May 25, 2020, 6:49:49 AM5/25/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
That's awesome Leah. I also am a singer. Went through school and traveled Europe singing. Glad to have you as part of the group!

Keri Boyer

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May 25, 2020, 7:10:54 PM5/25/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi. I’m Keri Boyer and I am an elementary librarian although my background is HS English. I’m struggling to find my footing even after a few years in elementary. I’m looking forward to learning from this group.

Marion Yurgosky

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May 25, 2020, 8:22:32 PM5/25/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi, My name is Marion Yurgosky and I am a 4th grade math teacher at Lakeland Elementary School in Scott Twp PA.  My district just informed us that we need to have our Level 1 Google Certification by June 25th.  I'm here hoping to get some support, :)

Kimberly Davenport

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May 26, 2020, 8:43:33 AM5/26/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Kimberly. I teach English 11, English 12, AP Lang. & Comp. and journalism in Susquehanna County, PA.

Kimberly Davenport

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May 26, 2020, 8:46:22 AM5/26/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I am currently taking the Level 1 Google Certification class--and look forward to learning from this group.

Leah Boni

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May 27, 2020, 11:18:08 AM5/27/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
That's cool! Bet that was a great experience! Glad to be part of the group--hope to learn a lot!

Becky Benner-Carr

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May 27, 2020, 2:04:15 PM5/27/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello!

My name is Becky and I am currently a Computer and Spanish teacher in a PreK-8 Catholic School.  I have a BS in Spanish and a MS in Instructional Technology.  I am working on getting Google Certified.

David Foster

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May 27, 2020, 8:31:12 PM5/27/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello.  My name is David.  I am a special educatino teacher at an approved private school in Norristown.  I am studying this week for the Google level 1 exam.  One other things about me si that I have a vision impairment and am legally blind.

Julie Sipe

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May 27, 2020, 9:17:08 PM5/27/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
My name is Julie Sipe.  I have been teaching high school mathematics for 11 years.  I enjoy time outdoors with my two young boys and am excited to see what kinds of resources and materials I can gain from this group.

Holly Hawley

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May 29, 2020, 6:29:11 PM5/29/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello! I'm Holly. I am a 2nd grade teacher outside of Pittsburgh. I am taking the training for my Google certification right now. My interesting fact is I raise Scottish Highland cattle and once had one calf sleep in my kitchen hours after birth.

Jamie Tamasy

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Jun 1, 2020, 12:00:45 PM6/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello Everyone!  I'm Jamie. I teach AP Bio and am working on my Level I certification.

Winnie Richardson

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Jun 1, 2020, 1:32:46 PM6/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
HI, I am Winnie Richardson, a special education teacher for middle and high school students in rural Virginia.  

I am working to take the exam for level 1 so I can use my skills to get paid to train others after I retire in 2021.  

I appreciate learning and sharing with you all.

angie nordstrom

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Jun 1, 2020, 1:54:59 PM6/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello during this pandemic....

My name is Angie and I teach listening and spoken language to children that are deaf/hard of hearing. Currently I am mostly teaching math and science to first graders. I work at DePaul School for Hearing and Speech in Pittsburgh. 

"Interesting" fact: I was born/raised in FL, but went to college at IUP. 

Layne Vickers

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Jun 1, 2020, 10:51:04 PM6/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I'm Layne Vickers from rural Virginia.  I teach 5th grade language arts.  I'm working on my level 1 Google certification.  I'm teaching virtual summer school and hope to increase my bag of tricks with all these cool Google tools.

Interesting fact - I love music and local theater.

Layne Vickers

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Jun 1, 2020, 10:52:15 PM6/1/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I live in Luray, Virginia and teach in Rappahannock County.  What area of rural Virginia are you from?

Paula Brady

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Jun 3, 2020, 11:06:40 AM6/3/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi!  I am from Southwestern PA.  I teach first in Burgettstown.

Kevin Keating

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Jun 3, 2020, 1:21:01 PM6/3/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello all
Kevin from NEPA. Just starting the Google Level I Cert but have been using Classroom for four years. Coach football and track. Also raise four chickens with my wife.

Brooke Turner

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Jun 3, 2020, 6:28:36 PM6/3/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hello! I am a 3rd grade teacher. Our district departmentalizes and I teach the subject areas of math and science. Working on Google Training and certification!

Peter Raatz

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Jun 3, 2020, 7:18:06 PM6/3/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
It's so good to see so many new people joining. Welcome All!

Dwight Heminger

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Jun 5, 2020, 11:49:24 AM6/5/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
I am Dwight.  I have been teaching computer to K-6 students at Shenango Elementary (New Castle, PA) for the past 18 years.  So much has changed and keeping up with everything is a challenge, which is why I am grateful to be a part of this group.  

I am diving into the bee-keeping hobby this summer. 

Joy Kots

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Jun 5, 2020, 4:43:28 PM6/5/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Joy, Philly teacher 18 years, I teach environmental science, chemistry, & engineering. I've been utilizing Google Classroom for 5 and am just starting Google Level 1 cert. I love to travel so we shall see what the summer brings.

Sara Blecki

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Jun 8, 2020, 1:07:42 AM6/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
My name is Sara, I live in Erie, and I am the Technology Coordinator and STREAM Teacher at a local private Pre-K-8 school.

Something interesting about me is that I have taught children from 6 weeks old to grade 8.

Daniel Brown

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Jun 8, 2020, 9:59:14 AM6/8/20
to GEG Pennsylvania
Hi Everyone.  I am a high school science teacher in Horsham, PA at a small private alternative school.  I have been there for 15 years.   I like all thing science and enjoy teaching Biology , Chemistry, Ecology, and Anatomy.  I am working on my Google 1 Cert.  The profile picture is not me but a friend mentioned I looked like this celebrity with my quarantine hair.  So lets play guess who? Hint #1: He is a musician?     
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