The Summer Tech Academy is a professional development course offered in partnership with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Elementary Education to elementary teachers to learn to implement best practices in education, particularly through the integration of technology. Teachers, grouped by grade levels, circulate through three different topics. With the support of instructors and peers, time is devoted each day to translating new knowledge into grade specific lessons. Opportunities for networking and attendee presentations are also included.
Takeaways for attendees of the Tech Academy include:
- 21st Century skill development
- 15 Act 48 Credit Hours
- Peer networking with continued collaboration year-round via a Google Group
- A technology device such as a Chromebook for their school
Since 2009, over 1,800 teachers representing 100 schools throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia have taken advantage of this opportunity. About 600 of these teachers have returned in following years to further build upon the skills learned.
Tech Academy attendees in recent years shared the following comments:
"The Summer Tech Academy was one of the best workshops I have attended over the past 13 years because just about everything we did I can take directly back to the classroom. We were learning and doing all at the same time. And I couldn't wait to get home and do more!" - Honors Math teacher
"Awesome to be able to share, learn and collaborate with other like-minded teachers. Great instructors, knowledgeable and eager to assist, support and strengthen classroom teachers." - 3rd grade teacher
“I can’t stress enough the importance of networking with my fellow Catholic educators. I wish I could bottle the positive energy emanating from that conference room.” – 6th -8th grade teacher