NotebookLM: An AI-Powered Digital Notebook that Packs a Punch!

“I can do this all day.”

Superpowers aren’t just for heroes in capes. Meet NotebookLM, the AI sidekick that levels up the learning experience for students.

Note: Users of NotebookLM must be 18+ years old (but teachers can create resources with NotebookLM and make them available to students in Google Drive or Schoology).



What is NotebookLM?

NotebookLM is Google’s AI-powered notebook that transforms how you can interact with information. Teachers can upload notes from Google Docs, slides from Google Slides, PDFs, YouTube videos, just about anything into a single, organized space!

Need a summary? A quick Q&A session? A study guide? A downloadable realistic-sounding podcast? NotebookLM has you covered, all while staying teacher-friendly and ridiculously easy to use. (Psst, it’s also FREE.)

Getting Started with NotebookLM 

• To access NotebookLM, head to the NotebookLM website and sign in using your Google account. 
• Upload your content 
• Click the Create Notebook button to start organizing your materials. 
• Add files such as PDFs, Google Docs, Google Slides, or even website URLs. 
• Once your files are uploaded, dive in! 
• You can Ask NotebookLM questions about your documents, such as “What are the main points of this chapter?” or “What’s the connection between these two articles?”
• Generate summaries, making complex materials easier to digest.
• Create customized study guides tailored to the content of your files. 

Explore the AI-Powered Features

• Use the Question Generator to come up with possible discussion or study questions based on your materials.
• Try the Concept Mapper to see how ideas in your content connect visually, helping you or your students grasp relationships between topics.
• Experiment with Audio Summaries to have content read aloud, which can be a game-changer for auditory learners. 

What can You Do for Students do with NotebookLM?

• Boost Understanding: NotebookLM provides instant feedback, helping students connect the dots and clarify confusing concepts. Simply type in the misconception and get a quick response for how to address it.
• Focus on Learning: From summarizing key points to creating custom study guides, NotebookLM helps teachers keep students focused on the learning they experience in class.
• Make It Personal: Whether preparing for a project or breaking down complex ideas, teachers can tailor NotebookLM content to student learning styles. 

Connecting NotebookLM to Our Vision

In Barrington 220, we’re always looking for new tools that support learner agency and enhance learning. NotebookLM fits seamlessly into our Google ecosystem and innovative Apple tools, amplifying how we best meet the needs of our students.

Multimodal Literacy: Adding More Opportunities for Students to Practice Literacy Skills

“Just because something works doesn’t mean it can’t be improved.” 

I couldn’t narrow down the quotes for this article, so here's a second, bonus quote:

“Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic.”

What is Literacy, Anyway?

According to the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE, 2015):

“Literacy involves the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively across a variety of modes and media. This includes not only traditional print but also digital, visual, and multimedia forms of communication, enabling individuals to navigate, interpret, and create meaning in a complex, interconnected world.”

Multimodal literacy refers to engaging with and producing content that integrates technology into literacy allowing for expansion of reading, writing, speaking, and listening to digital media.

Ways to Boost Multimodal Literacy

Interactive Storytelling: Encourage students to create digital stories using videos, images, and text. Tools like Canva and Clips bring student voice to the forefront.

Multimedia Presentations: Students can present their projects using more than Google Slides with photos. Try Keynote and encourage the use of a combination of slides, videos, and audio clips. 

Digital Portfolios: Maximize the unlimited creation space in each tab of a Numbers app document to draw, type, use shapes, add audio, add video, and more!

Want to know more? Email me, Joe Robinson, Director of Innovation, to schedule time for me to visit your team time, department meeting, staff meeting, etc. I'd love to share ideas and templates. 

Why Multimodal Literacy Matters

How do you consume content? Is it only via text on a page? In our interconnected world, information isn’t just text-based. It comes in videos, podcasts, social media posts, and interactive websites. Multimodal literacy refers to the ability to understand and create content that combines different modes of communication. Recent research underscores the importance of developing these skills in students:

“Multimodal literacy allows students to leverage multiple modes of communication, enhancing their ability to understand and create complex ideas.” (Gee, 2007)

“Incorporating digital tools into the classroom fosters an environment where students can engage with content in diverse and meaningful ways.” (Mishra & Koehler, 2006)

These insights highlight that multimodal literacy isn’t just an add-on; it’s an integral component of modern education that prepares students for the complexities of the digital world.

References

Gee, J. P. (2007). What Video Games Have to Teach Us About Learning and Literacy. Second Edition, Palgrave Macmillan.

Mishra, P., & Koehler, M.J.. (2006). Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge: A Framework for Teacher Knowledge. Teachers College Record, vol. 108, no. 6, pp. 1017-1054. JSTOR.

National Council of Teachers of English. (2015). The NCTE Multimodal Literacy Statement. National Council of Teachers of English, https://ncte.org/statement/multimodal-literacy/ 

New Toshiba Copier/Printers Tutorials and Support

In November 2024 the district rolled out new Toshiba copier/printers at all buildings. Although they're new, many of the devices still look the same and have the features you're used to. Tutorial videos for the larger Toshiba copier/printers can be found in the Barrington 220 Digital Learning Hub.

The Toshiba 409AS is different than the devices we've had in the past. However, you should find that it has the basic functions you are expecting. The first three icons (Copy, Print Release, and PaperCut Scan) will be the functions you likely use the most on the 409AS.

What hasn't changed is how you request service on a Toshiba copier/printer. 

Call the Proven IT service department at 708-614-1915 and give them number in the round Proven IT badge, and they will send a technician out to address the problem.

New Drag to Fill Screen Feature in macOS Sequoia...and How to Turn It OFF

If you have upgraded your district MacBook Air laptop to the newest operating system, macOS Sequoia (version 15), you are definitely benefitting from its built-in increased security, and hopefully you are finding some of the over 200 new features across the upgraded system useful.

As with any major upgrade, Apple sometimes chooses to turn on a new feature to make sure we users are aware it’s available. One feature I noticed immediately is that when I move any window to the top of the screen, the window automatically fills the entire screen.

While I appreciate a new feature possibility, I found this one unhelpful and distracting. If you feel similarly, the feature can be turned off by opening System Settings (in the Dock or Apple menu > System Settings...). In the left column scroll down to and click Desktop & Dock, scroll down in the right column to Windows, and turn off Drag windows to menu bar to fill screen.

Key's Quick Tips - QR Codes to Tutorials Supporting Reading & Writing

Key's quick tips are provided by Kelly Key, Assistive Technology Coordinator for Barrington 220.

This month, I am sharing a resource for you and your students to use to learn about setting up and accessing a variety of tools available on the iPad to support reading and writing!

This visual lists tool is available to support our students paired with a QR code that links to a video demo of the tool. If the tools need to be turned on or set up in advance, there is a second QR code that links to a video tutorial.

You are encouraged to send the poster to the 220 Print Center to have printed on large card stock and hang in your classrooms, offices, and hallways. You can also cut out individual cards for the tools your students use and send home the quick cards to share with parents or place them on students' desks or lockers as reminders.

Please reach out to Kelly Key, AT Coordinator, with any questions or support!

Click here for the poster.

Cybersecurity and Black Friday

We usually discuss work-related cybersecurity concerns such as multi-factor authentication, email phishing, and computer updates. However, as Black Friday and the holiday shopping season rapidly approach, I want to remind you that the same cybersecurity tips we are learning here in Barrington 220 apply and can help keep you safe even when outside of school buildings. 

Here are a few tips to keep you safer when shopping online:

• 
  Shop on Secure, Trusted Websites—Stick to reputable websites, ideally the official sites of known retailers. Avoid clicking on ads or links in unsolicited emails or social media posts, as they may lead to phishing sites. Make sure the URL starts with https:// and displays a padlock icon.
• Be Cautious with Email Links and Attachments—During the holiday season, phishing emails often mimic popular retailers, offering deals or order confirmations. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments in unsolicited emails. Instead, go directly to the retailer's website by typing the URL (web address) in your browser to verify any offers or orders. Look out for generic greetings, spelling errors, or urgent language, as these can signal a phishing attempt.
• Monitor Your Bank and Credit Card Statements Regularly—Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements to catch any unauthorized transactions early. Set up alerts for transactions if your bank offers them, so you’ll be notified of any unusual activity.
• Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi for Shopping—Avoid making purchases over public Wi-Fi, as these networks are less secure and can be prone to cyber-attacks. If you must shop on public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection.
• Use Strong, Unique Passwords—Use a strong and unique password for each of your accounts. Consider using a password manager to store them securely. Avoid simple passwords or reusing the same password across multiple sites.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication—Turn on multi-factor authentication for accounts whenever possible, especially for email, financial services, and shopping sites. Like Barrington 220's MFA system, an extra step is added, but it ensures that even if someone gets your password, they’ll need a second verification method to access your account(s).

We wish you the best and hope you stay cyber-safe—in and out of school!

November New Apps, Google APIs, & Services for Barrington 220 Staff & Students

“Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” 

At Barrington 220, we believe that technology should empower our teachers and students, providing them with the tools to create, collaborate, and thrive in a digital learning environment. Each month we will announce the newly approved apps, Google APIs, and software services now available district-wide.

What’s New and Approved?

After careful evaluation and feedback from our staff and technology team, we have curated a list of apps and services that align with our educational goals and privacy standards.

Apps for Creativity and Workflow 

Red Rover: (iPadOS) Mobile app that supports the Red Rover platform. (Staff)

Apps for Content 

Read Live (Naturally): (iPadOS) Reading Intervention. (Staff and Students K-5)

Google APIs 

Autocrat: Flexible, easy to use document merge tool. (Staff)
Form Mule: Sends emails from a Google Sheet. (Staff)

How to Access and Implement

These newly approved apps and services can be accessed directly through our district’s digital platform: the Digital Learning Hub.

For new requests, please use our NEW Barrington Request for Apps, Google APIs, and Software Services (BRAGS).

Why These Tools?

Teachers can request apps, Google APIs, and software services. Each request is reviewed by the Director of Innovation, Director of Network Services, District Technology Associate, and when applicable, the Director of Elementary Learning and Teaching and/or the Director of Secondary Learning and Teaching. Requests are assessed for their adherence to our cybersecurity requirements, cost, and connection with our curriculum.

Time to Update Staff Information in Infinite Campus

Inclement weather during the winter months can present various challenges. To ensure timely and accurate assistance when needed, we kindly ask you to take a moment to verify the accuracy of demographic details in the Infinite Campus - Information Center.

Your demographic information includes crucial details such as your current address, contact numbers, emergency contacts, and preferred modes of communication. Ensuring this information is updated is essential, especially during the winter months.

To verify your demographic information please visit My Account > My Demographics. If you notice a correction is needed, locate the Request Demographic Update and make the necessary updates.

Start in My Account.

 

Then select My Data > My Demographics 

In the My Demographics tab, please verify your email addresses, and phone numbers. Primary emails for Staff must be Barrington 220 email.

If you made any changes, please click:

 

and

Thanks for helping us help you by delivering up-to-the-minute communications!

AI Task Force: A Call for Teachers to Explore Student-Facing AI

“To infinity and beyond!”

The AI Task Force is excited to announce our next steps in exploring student-facing AI tools. We are looking for classroom teachers in Grades 3–12 to join a subcommittee to focus on evaluating and implementing student-facing AI tools.

Why Use Student-Facing AI?

The integration of student-facing AI tools directly supports our Framework 220 goals. By implementing student-facing AI, we can:

• Promote Student Agency: In line with our goal of fostering student-centered learning, AI tools empower students to take control of their educational journey. They receive timely, meaningful feedback and access to resources that encourage independence and self-directed learning. 
• Enhance Differentiation: Our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of all learners is strengthened through AI. These tools can adapt to various learning levels, ensuring every student has an individualized opportunity to learn. 
• Prepare for the Future: As we strive to cultivate critical thinkers and lifelong learners, equipping students with the skills to interact with AI is essential. These competencies not only enhance academic performance but also prepare students for success in an increasingly AI-driven world.

To ensure we make informed decisions about the AI tools we adopt, our subcommittee will gather survey and anecdotal data from students and teachers. We will also develop a comprehensive rubric to evaluate each tool based on criteria outlined in our AI guidelines.

Which tools do we plan to evaluate?

The tools we plan to evaluate include:

• Brisk
• Khanmigo
• School AI
• MagicSchool AI

How You Can Get Involved

If you’re interested in participating, please contact Joe Robinson, Director of Innovation.

Get Ready for Winter Weather by Setting Up the MiCollab Mobile Phone App

As winter weather approaches and the possibility of eLearning days increases, you may want to take advantage of a new phone system feature—the ability to make and receive calls from your iPad (or iPhone) using your district phone number.

Among other features, the MiCollab for Mobile app allows you to make and receive calls on iPad (or iPhone). If you make a call using the app outside the district, the call recipient will see your district phone number on their Caller ID—even if you are using the app on a mobile phone.

All staff members with an extension on the district phone system received an email from noreply@mitel.easydeploy.net when our new phone system was deployed at their building. The email included a QR Code to set up the MiCollab app. 

If you did not set up the app at that time, and if the email was delivered more than 30 days ago, you will need to request a new setup email from the district Tech Team. Requesting this setup email is easy: send your request via email to techsupport@barrington220.org. The Tech Team will generate a new setup email as soon as possible, hopefully within one working day from your request. Each setup email is customized to each user and contains a unique QR Code.

The full set of directions for using this feature, including the setup, is available in this handy guide:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hgm64XK9CtDfLfiVhtm0kjnbgNoxyeq3rnRUESUVZSA/edit?usp=sharing 

If you need additional help, please contact our Tech Support Team (x. 1500 in the district).

Notes from the Social Media Awareness & Digital Citizenship Advisory Committee Meeting

“We’re all in this together.”

On October 22, 2024, we held our inaugural meeting of the Social Media Awareness and Digital Citizenship Advisory Committee at Barrington High School. This committee—comprised of around 40 students, parents, staff, and community members—was formed as part of the Health & Well-Being initiative within our Framework 220 plan and aims to foster a safe and healthy digital environment for our students and staff.

Meeting Summary 

• Team-Building Inclusion Activity and Working Agreements 
• Engaged participants in an interactive activity to foster connections and set a collaborative tone. 
• Diverse Group Representation 
• Formed participant groups that included staff, students, parents, and community members, ensuring a wide range of perspectives. 
• Research Review 
• Reviewed recent, relevant research on technology use by adolescents, encompassing data from across the United States and specifically from Barrington 220. 
• Developed a foundational understanding of the experiences of middle and high school students with access to technology. 
• Design Thinking Process
• Empathy 
• Conducted activities focused on building empathy for students through the use of an Empathy Map. 
• Define 
• Identified and named various issues related to technology use as part of the first diamond of the design thinking framework. 
• Engaged in a voting process to prioritize issues needing attention. 
• Ideate 
• Transitioned to the second diamond by brainstorming potential solutions to the identified issues. 
• Utilized an Eisenhower Matrix to evaluate solutions based on their impact and the effort required for implementation. 
• Preparation for Next Meeting 
• Outlined book studies for two significant texts: 
• Growing Up in Public by Devorah Heitner
• The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Next Steps

Our next steps will include collaborating with author, speaker, and researcher Devorah Heitner as a consultant to deepen our understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by social media in the lives of our students. We will conduct separate focus group interviews with students, staff, parents, and community members to gather diverse insights and perspectives on the experiences and expertise related to social media use. This approach stems from feedback received during our initial meeting, emphasizing the importance of directly engaging especially with our students. The findings from these focus groups will be compiled and reported to inform our next steps.

ILICUG Annual Conference for IC

WHAT: Illinois Infinite Campus Users' Conference

WHEN: December 4–5, 2024

WHERE: Northern Illinois University, 1120 E. Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563

COST: $300 for both days - $175 for individual days

                                                                    REGISTER HERE!

IC Yearly Event Series (YES) PD Series - November 2024

Infinite Campus Discovery Week is scheduled for November 18-22, 2024—a 5-day event!

Join Infinite Campus for five days and hundreds of sessions with topics for every user. Scheduled mid-way through the Yearly Event Series (YES), this summit-level event brings together thousands for learning and networking as we continue Transforming K–12 Education. Sessions are planned on the following topics:

• Academic Planning
• Ad Hoc
• Application Management
• Assessments
• Attendance
• Behavior
• Campus Analytics
• Campus Community
• Campus Instruction
• Campus Learning
• Campus Parent & Campus
• Campus Payments
• Campus Workflow
• Census
• Communication Tools
• Custom Forms
• Customizing Campus
• Fees
• Flags
• Food Service
• FRAM: Free and Reduced
• Grading & Standards
• Health
• Online Registration (OLR)
• Personal Learning Plans (PLP)
• Response to Intervention (RtI)
• Scheduling
• Student
• Surveys
• User Security

Take a Picture of Text and Have It Read Out Loud

Key's quick tips are provided by Kelly Key, Assistive Technology Coordinator for Barrington 220.

This month's featured tool is built into the iPad's Camera app!

Live Text is a feature built into our iPad camera app. Take a picture of any text (typed or handwritten), press the Live Text icon, and it will read it out loud when the text is selected. Once a student uses the Live Text feature, the text can then be translated and read out loud in that language!

This feature can be used for many things:

• Take a picture of a reading passage on a worksheet and have it read out loud.
• Take a picture of the pages of a book and have them read out loud. 
• Take a picture of a handwritten note and have it translated and read out loud in that language.
• Take a picture of a sign or poster in the class and have it read out loud. 
• Take a picture of a recipe on a box and have it read out loud. 

Students will first need to turn on the Spoken Content feature in the iPad settings in order to make this work. Settings- Accessibility- Spoken Content (turn on) 

Directions for using Live Text:

• Open the Camera app.
• Take a picture of the text (be careful not to cut the words off or take it too far away).
• Press the Live Text button 
• Select the text (tap and drag to select).
• Press Speak. (You can also copy and paste the text from your photo!)

Teach your entire class these features by showing them these two short, interactive videos. They walk your student through how to turn it on and use these features! They were created for middle school students, but can be used for anyone!


Spoken Content Interactive Video-10 minutes


Live Text Interactive Video- 8 Minutes

Have a worksheet or book for the students to take a picture of or click HERE for a worksheet to use. 

May I get IC training? YES!

Again this year, Barrington 220 has partnered with Infinite Campus to participate in the "largest offering of live professional development events in Infinite Campus history! YES [Yearly Event Series] includes timely instruction on a wide array of Infinite Campus topics that will easily save you and your staff hundreds of hours during the school year!"

In addition, we’re excited to announce that recordings of recent YES training sessions are now available for you to access at your convenience. Whether you missed a session or want to revisit key topics, these recordings are a valuable resource to enhance your learning and development. You can find the recordings in the YES Recordings Catalog. 

Happy learning in IC!

Infinite Campus Role-Specific Resources

Infinite Campus recently introduced Role-Specific Resources in the Campus Community. The page offers specific training based on the following roles:

• Counselors & Administrators: academic planning, behavior, and early warning
• Front Office Staff: online registration, messenger, and attendance
• Teachers & Curriculum Directors: teaching center, grade book, and progress monitor
• Technology Staff: reporting, user security, and auditing options

Access the resources here: https://kb.infinitecampus.com/help/role-specific-resources

Introducing Tim Woomert, Assistant Director of Student Information Integration

Tim Woomert recently joined Barrington 220 as the Assistant Director of Student Information Integration. He comes to us from CCSD15 (serving parts of Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Hoffman Estates, Inverness, South Barrington, Arlington Heights, and Schaumburg) where he was the Manager of Data Services for the past eight years. His main focus was implementing the Infinite Campus system and connecting to the growing list of external systems that require student data. 

Prior to his years in education, Tim was a director of internal product development at a hotel business intelligence and advertising company. He has even participated in a few startup technology companies.

Tim lives in Streamwood with his wife, Lori. They try to spend most of their free time with their two grandchildren or, in the fall, traveling around the country (thanks to Big Ten expansion) to watch their Iowa Hawkeyes play.

Infinite Campus Messenger 2.0 Coming Soon!

We’re excited to announce that this year, we will be rolling out Messenger 2.0 in Infinite Campus! This update promises to bring enhanced features and improvements to your messaging experience. 

More information will follow soon, so stay tuned!

Please note: If you have any templates or saved messages that you frequently use, you will need to save them to Google, as they will not be available in Messenger 2.0.

Thank you for your attention, and we look forward to sharing more details soon!

Make AI Your Teacher Superpower with Brisk

“With great power comes great responsibility.” 

Maybe you should sit down. Brisk might make you weak in the knees. 

Brisk can streamline content creation and feedback processes with the power of AI.

It has the power to transform how you engage with students and elevate their learning experiences.

What is Brisk?

Brisk is a Google Chrome Extension that leverages AI to assist teachers in creating dynamic content assets and delivering timely, meaningful feedback.

Getting Started with Brisk

To begin using Brisk, follow these steps:

1. Open the Google Chrome Web Store (in your Chrome browser).
2. Search for Brisk.
3. Click Add to Chrome and follow the installation prompts.

What can Brisk do for you?

• Build visually engaging presentations.
• Generate lightning-fast, timely, meaningful feedback suggestions for students.

Build Visually Engaging Presentations

Click on the Brisk icon in the lower right corner of any open Google Docs, Google Sheets, or Google Slides document. The Brisk menu opens with options to Create, Give Feedback, Impact Writing, Change Level, and Boost Student Activity. In the example above, I’m going to create a presentation about Plate Tectonics for middle school from the notes I’ve outlined in a Google Doc. I begin by clicking on Create.

When I select Presentation from the extensive list of options, Brisk offers additional parameters.

In this menu, I can select the language, design of the template, type of AI, grade level, number of slides, and options for including images. I can add additional notes to guide Brisk. I can also select standards!

I select the proper state, content area, grade level, and standards domain before clicking on the specific standards I want to include.

The presentation includes the correct number of slides, matches the information from my notes, and aligns information to the standards I selected. The presentation was created automatically in Google Slides in an additional tab in my Chrome browser window. 

Generate Lightning-fast, Timely, Meaningful Feedback Suggestions for Students

This time, we are aiming to provide timely, meaningful feedback for students on an essay. Clicking on the Brisk icon in the lower right corner opens our menu. Select Give Feedback to open more options.

For providing informal feedback, I recommend the Glow & Grow option. 

Like with the Create options, the Give Feedback option allows you to select the language, your voice, the standards, grade level, type of feedback, etc.

Brisk generates feedback connected to the standards and using your voice. The feedback is not immediately visible to students allowing you to edit, add your personal voice, or copy/paste specific statements. You may also select Insert.

Brisk inserts the Glow & Grow feedback directly into the student’s Google Doc!

Connecting AI to Our Vision

Brisk is more than just a tool—it’s part of our broader commitment to leveraging AI to support high-quality teaching and learning. The two examples shown here highlight how to create content and give feedback in ways that can be differentiated, individualized, or personalized for students efficiently and effectively. 

We can’t wait to see what else you do with Brisk and to share more ideas in future articles.

Updated Process for Requesting Apps, Google APIs, and Software Services

“This is the way.”

As part of Barrington 220’s commitment to providing staff and students with the best tools for learning and teaching, we’ve introduced a new, simplified process for requesting apps, Google APIs, and software services called the Barrington Request for Apps, Google APIs, and Software services (BRAGS). This new workflow ensures that all technology resources are thoroughly vetted for data privacy, cost, educational alignment, and more before they are made available for use.

Why a New Process?

With the rapid growth of educational technology, it’s more important than ever to have a clear and consistent way to evaluate and approve new tools. The new process provides:

• Enhanced Efficiency: Faster review and approval times for requested resources.
• Transparency: Clear communication about each stage of the review process.
• Data Security: Rigorous vetting to ensure compliance with student data privacy policies.
• Instructional Alignment: Evaluation to confirm that tools support our district’s instructional goals.

How to Request a New App, Google API, or Software Service

The new process for submitting requests is simple and can be completed in just a few steps:

1. Submit a Request Form

Check the updated list of apps, Google APIs, and software services found at the Digital Learning Hub.

For new requests, please use our NEW Barrington Request for Apps, Google APIs, and Software Services (BRAGS).

2. Initial Review by the Technology Department

The technology team will conduct a preliminary review to ensure the tool meets our data security and cost standards. You’ll receive an initial response within two weeks.

3. Instructional and Administrative Review

If the tool passes the preliminary review, it will be evaluated by the instructional technology and learning and teaching teams to determine its fit within our curricular framework and instructional practices.

4. Approval and Implementation

Once approved, the app, API, or software service will be added to the district’s technology resources, and you will receive instructions on how to access and integrate it into your classroom.

What to Expect After Submission

Our goal is to provide timely feedback at each stage of the review process. Throughout the evaluation, you’ll be kept informed via email updates, including any additional information needed to complete the review.

Supporting Innovation and Safety

This new process reflects our district’s ongoing dedication to leveraging technology in a way that supports innovation while maintaining the highest standards for safety and security. Whether you’re exploring a new instructional app or integrating a Google API for classroom management, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

If you have questions or need assistance with your request, please reach out to Joe Robinson, Director of Innovation.

New Apps, Google APIs, and Software Services for Barrington 220 Staff and Students

“Where does he get those wonderful toys?”

At Barrington 220, we believe that technology should empower our teachers and students, providing them with the tools to create, collaborate, and thrive in a digital learning environment. Each month we will announce the newly approved apps, Google APIs, and software services now available district wide.

What’s New and Approved?

After careful evaluation and feedback from our staff and technology team, we have curated a list of apps and services that align with our educational goals and data privacy standards.

Apps for Creativity and Workflow

• MiCollab for Mobile: (iPadOS and macOS) Mobile app that supports our Mitel phone system. (Staff)
• MirrorTalk: Reflection with AI: (iPadOS) MirrorTalk allows students to connect with an AI-powered bot that helps students reflect on their work. (Students 6–12, Staff)
• FigJam: Whiteboard & Draw: (iPadOS) A versatile tool for collaborative brainstorming and creation. (Students 9–12, Staff)
• Adobe Aero: (iPadOS) Adobe Aero uses AR to connect students with content. (Students K–5, Staff)
• Visualizer: (macOS) App that connects with iPEVO cameras. (Staff)

Apps to Support Content

• Stage|Tracks: (iPadOS and macOS) Allows users to control, automate, and customize audio tracks for performances. (Students 6–12, Staff)
• Piascore - Smart Music Score: (iPadOS) Digital sheet music library. (Students 6–12, Staff)
• Pearson+: (iPadOS) Supports access to Pearson eTextbooks. (Students 9–12, Staff)
• Heart Zones Move: (iPadOS) App that connects with heart zone monitors. (Students 9–12, Staff)

Google APIs

• Screencastify: Screen recording software with added tools. (Staff)
• Carnegie Mellon Computer Science: Computer science curriculum: free for all, designed for you. (Staff)
• Cricut: Software for smart cutting machines. (Staff)

Software Services

• Nearpod 21st Century Readiness: (App and Website) Additional Nearpod units and lessons on Digital Citizenship, SEL, Financial Literacy, College and Career Readiness, and more. (Staff and Students)
• Brisk Teaching: (Google Extension) AI tool to assist teachers with content creation and timely, meaningful feedback. (Staff)

How to Access and Implement

These newly approved apps and services can be accessed directly through our district’s digital platform, the Digital Learning Hub.

For new requests, please use our NEW Barrington Request for Apps, Google APIs, and Software Services (BRAGS).

Why These Tools?

Teachers can request apps, Google APIs, and software services. Each request is reviewed by the Director of Innovation, Director of Network Services, District Technology Associate, and when applicable, the Director of Elementary Learning and Teaching and/or the Director of Secondary Learning and Teaching. Requests are assessed for their adherence to our cybersecurity requirements, cost, and connection with our curriculum.

Get started today!

AI Task Force: Progress Update and Future Directions

“Boldly go where no one has gone before.” 

The Barrington 220 AI Task Force was established to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and to ensure its responsible implementation and transformative integration across our district.

Specific outcomes of this group

1. Establish best practices for the use of AI by staff.
2. Develop resources for staff to navigate the use and potential misuse of AI by students.
3. Identify and update existing school handbooks, syllabi, and relevant community-facing documents to include language related to the use and misuse of AI.
4. Create recommendations for updates to relevant Board policy statements.  
5. Explore potential places where AI skills can be responsibly embedded into the K–12 curriculum.

Achievements to Date

Over the past several months, the AI Task Force has focused on laying a strong foundation for understanding and implementing AI technologies. Key accomplishments include:

1. Conducted Research and Analysis

The Task Force conducted an extensive review of existing AI guidelines published by area and forward-thinking school districts.

2. Drafted BHS Artificial Intelligence Guidelines

A guide was drafted that aims to provide educators with insights into the ethical and effective use of AI tools in the classroom. This document will serve as a practical resource, offering guidelines, best practices, and real-world examples to help teachers confidently navigate the evolving landscape of AI in education. 

3. Developed an AI Assessment Scale for Assignments

A scoring system for teachers was developed to effectively communicate the acceptable use of AI for specific assignments. This system allows students to understand how AI can be utilized in their work, ensuring clarity and maintaining academic integrity. This was adapted from: The AI Assessment Scale (AIAS), a framework for ethical integration of generative AI in educational assessments by Perkins, Furze, Roe, and MacVaugh, 2024.

Looking Ahead: Future Plans for the AI Task Force

As we move forward, the AI Task Force will expand its focus and continue to drive innovation in the following areas:

1. Scaling AI Integration

Building on successful pilot programs, the Task Force will work to expand AI integration district wide. This includes providing teachers with professional learning opportunities to understand and utilize AI tools effectively, while ensuring that students benefit from AI-powered support in a variety of learning contexts.

2. Exploring Emerging AI Technologies

The Task Force will continue to monitor advancements in AI, such as student-facing tools with gradual release mechanisms for teachers to provide guardrails on and insight into AI use. We plan to pilot several options this winter and spring. If you’re interested in participating, please contact Joe Robinson, Director of Innovation.

3. Establishing Best Use Cases for AI

Best use cases for AI will serve as a guide for teachers and staff, helping them integrate AI into classrooms to support student success and innovation, all while maintaining the highest standards for privacy and security.

How You Can Get Involved

We plan to pilot several options this winter and spring. If you’re interested in participating, please contact Joe Robinson, Director of Innovation.

The Task Force’s work is driven by our shared commitment to using AI in ways that enhance learning, support our educational mission, and prepare students for success in an increasingly digital world. If you’re interested in joining the AI Task Force, please contact Joe Robinson, Director of Innovation.

Need Interpretation or Translation Services? We've Got You Covered!

As we dive into the new school year, we want to remind our Barrington 220 staff about the process for requesting interpretation or translation services. Whether you need support for in-person events, phone calls, Zoom meetings, or document translations, we've made it simple and streamlined.

To submit a request, just fill out our easy-to-use Google Form! You can find it by clicking here or by visiting the Barrington 220 website. After logging in under the Staff tab, look for Interpretation & Translation Request.

Using this form, you can upload documents for translation or schedule an interpreter. This system helps us manage requests efficiently, ensuring our translation team can coordinate and meet your needs across the district.

Please note the following guidelines when submitting your requests:

• Document Translations: Please allow 5–10 business days for completion.
• Meeting Interpreter Requests: Submit at least 10 days in advance to guarantee availability.

While we strive to accommodate everyone, last-minute requests may be difficult to fulfill. For any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, Hector Ontiveros, at hontiveros@barrington220.org or 847.842.3561.

We’re here to support you, so please send your requests with ample time!

How to Reset the Missed Calls Badge on Your Desk Phone

At the end of last school year and the start of this one, we upgraded from an outdated analog phone system to a cutting-edge digital solution. As we continue to adapt to the new system, one common question has come up: "How do I clear the red number at the top of my screen?"

This red number, known as the "missed call badge," is a feature on the Mitel 6930w phone that tracks missed calls. Below, we'll walk you through the quick and easy steps to clear the missed call notification.

Circled below, you'll see the Missed Call icon.

On your phone, press the Call History key.

The Call History screen will be displayed. 

Using the round Navigation/Select button, select Missed, then press the button below Delete.

Then press the button below Delete again...

...to return to the Call History screen, then press the button below Close.

Your missed calls will be cleared and the red badge will be gone (until your next missed call).