"What's in the Bag EDU?" (Episode 8: Jenna Mercury, @Science4UsSays)
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos. Today, we welcome Jenna Mercury or @Science4UsSays, from Montgomery, TX!
Welcome to the eighth episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome Jenna Mercury, or @Science4UsSays, from Charlottesville, VA!
I’m Jenna! Currently I’m roaming around the world sharing the value of K-2 science education, but prior to this, I was teaching science and math in the classroom. I’ve always known that I would be working in the sciences. I just never knew the capacity! My role has certainly evolved, but my love for science just grows stronger!
(please note, below could be affiliate links)
Item #1:
My first item in my bag is less of a thing and more of a feeling: compassion and understanding. The one thing that I have realized over my time as an educator is that we all carry baggage. Sometimes our mind (as a student) is not prepared to learn because of outside influences. We need to be caring in our actions and learn to support these students. If our mind is not prepared, we need to get it there. Stop, Breathe & Think is an app that helps you find your inner peace in the craziness of our worlds: https://www.stopbreathethink.com/
Item #2:
I can’t leave home without my stereoscope. Yes, I said stereoscope! There is nothing more fantastic to a science teacher than whipping this out when a student wants to take a closer look at something. One of my favorite teachable science moments was when my students were studying soil, sand and rocks and a student was looking at the sand and said, “Ms. Mercury, this looks like mini rocks!” Boom! We’ve even checked out dust bunnies- EW! https://amzn.to/31X0Cv7
Item #3:
Although this may seem silly, I am still a gal that’s all about her health. In the classroom, I would always forget to drink water or I simply would never drink enough. Water not only helps a body regulate temperature and flush out waste, but it also helps with brain function-- we need awesome brains everyday! So my bag always has a reusable water bottle and a straw handy. Then I can keep drinking the chemical of life throughout the day! Science water bottles are the best! https://amzn.to/33dl4YI
Item #4:
Other item in my bag is far from the classroom walls, literally: The SkyView app. Going along with my first idea, I love nothing more than reflecting on the idea that I am one small speck in this huge space. I feel inspired to look up at the stars and planets at night and think about peace and serenity. I loved sharing this app with my students as so often they too did not think beyond the walls of the classroom! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/skyview-lite/id413936865
Item #5:
Twitter. Twitter is always in my bag. If I am ever struggling on anything: classroom ideas, parent communication, or even mental exhaustion, there are millions of ideas and dozens and dozens of support outlets available. We are all on the same team and our goals are so common. Having a PD team of this global size is thrilling AND essential!
Being in the classroom is just like practicing science-- we can evolve through trial and error. We don’t fail, we find another opportunity to try again and succeed. Yup, I said all that ;)
"What's in the Bag EDU?" (Episode 7: Amy Storer, @techamys)
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos. Today, we welcome Amy Storer, or @techamys, from Montgomery, TX!
Welcome to the seventh episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome Amy Storer, or @techamys, from Montgomery, TX!
Amy Storer is an Instructional Coach and Technology Integration Mentor in Montgomery, Texas. She encourages and motivates others to reach far beyond the classroom walls to make the learning more meaningful and inspiring. Amy has a true passion for working with other educators and students to encourage them to make and foster global connections.
(please note, below could be affiliate links)
Item #1:
Buncee: Buncee is my absolute favorite creation tool as an instructional coach. I use it all the time to create graphics for presentations, school and district signage, newsletters, and more! What I love about this tool is that kids (and teachers) get it, because it gets them! I feel at my most creative when using it. Just love it!
Item #2:
Wakelet: Wakelet is a content creation platform where users can bookmark, organize content into collections, create digital stories, collaborate, design learning portfolios, you name it! Wakelet can do it! I love to use this tool as an instructional coach to create collections for frequently visited sites for our campus family, coaching menus, professional development, and for taking notes.
Item #3:
#CopierPD: I started this last year after being inspired by a conversation I had with some educators on Voxer. I was looking for ways to reach the adult learners on my campus, but to also honor their time. This is very similar to #PottyPD and #LearningintheLoo. You never know who you will impact with your words and the things that you share!
Item #4:
Four O’Clock Faculty by Rich Czyz: This book totally transformed the way that I think about professional learning. It continues to inspire me to design experiences for my teachers and others that “stick”. I even own 2 books, just in case I lose one! That is how much I love it!
Item #5:
My Space: As an instructional coach, I want my space to be inviting and a space for all. Each year, I work to add more to my room for the teachers that I work alongside. Some of my favorite things in my space? Candy jars, our professional learning library (bookshelf built by my pawpaw), and grade level tubs to stay organized.
Item #6:
Flocabulary: I love the way this tool amplifies student voice! One of my favorite features of this tool is the Lyric Lab. Students and teachers are able to design and create academic rhymes to go along with content and learning.
Item #7:
Podcasts! I love listening to podcasts while in the car or in the gym. It is a great way to explore and learn while on the go, and it’s FREE! Some of my favorite educational podcasts are Teach Like a Rockstar, Leading Equity (just started this one), and Cult of Pedagogy. I also love true crime podcasts and those that tell a story.
Item #8:
Frixion Pens! These are my favorite pens to use with my calendar! They are retractable gel pens that also erase! I have a hard time using anything else! LOL!
"What's in the Bag EDU?" (Episode 6: Kathrina Mendez, @kathrina_mendez)
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos. Today, we welcome Kathrina Mendez, or @kathrina_mendez, from San Diego, CA!
Welcome to the sixth episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome Kathrina Mendez, or @kathrina_mendez, from San Diego, CA!
Hi! My name is Kathrina Mendez and I teach a 4th/5th grade combination class south of San Diego in California. I love learning and connecting with others. I am passionate about building relationships with my students and providing equitable opportunities for diverse learners.
(please note, below are affiliate links)
Item #1:
Presentation Remote -- My students always look forward to using this wireless remote for class presentations. It is ergonomically designed, durable, easy to use, and inexpensive. The remote uses one AAA battery and has an ultra-slim USB receiver that is stored inside the remote when not in use. The controls allow students to easily go forward, backward, full screen, and includes a laser pointer. To purchase, click here.
Item #2:
IMultipurpose Laser Leveler — I use this multipurpose laser leveler for decorating my classroom, especially when setting up my class before the school year starts. The leveler includes an 8 foot measuring tape, three bubble levels, and my favorite part--the laser leveler. The laser level helps me easily level and line up multiple bulletin boards or posters as desired. A must-have for my fellow Type A teachers! This item was found on Amazon here.
Item #3:
Ceiling Clips — If you have T bar ceilings in your classroom, these ceiling hooks are an awesome and easy way to decorate and transform your classroom. I keep these hooks close to the perimeter of my entire ceiling to hang decorations, backdrops, flags, and student work throughout the year. They are super easy to clip on and move or slide around as needed. I love using them for classroom transformations to surprise the students and physically change the look of our room. To purchase, click here.
Item #4:
Webcam Cover Slider — After having a class set of Chromebooks for 3 years, some of our webcams have gotten scratched and cloudy after so much student wear and tear. These cover sliders protect the webcam lens and have a strong adhesive and stay in place once they’re set. An added bonus is that it can help with managing the class. When students are working on video projects and I need their immediate attention, I simply ask for them to slide their cover to avoid distractions. To purchase, click here.
Item #5:
Flipgrid Tent or Pop-Up Pod — We LOVE using Flipgrid in our room and we use this tent to provide students a more private or safe space to record when needed. We also use the tent during independent reading as a comfy, distraction free reading nook. We have a few in our room and students love to use it so much that I have a rotation schedule for students during independent work. The tent can also double up as a green screen for other video projects! See my video for my pod-hack alternative! To purchase, click here.
Item #6:
Write & Wipe Magnetic Nameplates — I forgot to include these in my video but here are two photos of my last item! I use these magnets to stay organized in a visual way. I have used them as an attendance tracker as students enter the room and move their name from Absent to Present. I also use them to keep track of class jobs and flex groups in writing. I have multiple sets and sometimes print labels for the sets that get shifted around so much so that I don’t have to deal with rewriting names when they accidentally get wiped off! To purchase, click here.
Purchase Links:
Here’s where you can find direct links to purchase the items that Karie mentioned. Please note: these are affiliate links. If you have any questions, please reach out to Karie on Twitter at: @legitkfrauey!
"What's in the Bag EDU?" (Episode 5: Jeni Long and Sallee Clark, @Jenallee1
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos. Today, we welcome Jeni Long and Sallee Clark or @Jenallee, from Fort Worth, TX!!
Welcome to the fifth episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome the dynamic duo: Jeni Long and Sallee Clark, or @jenallee from Fort Worth, TX!
Jeni Long and Sallee Clark are Instructional Technologists with Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD. This dynamic duo, known as #Jenallee, is passionate about technology integration and making learning accessible & fun for all! Their blog and YouTube show highlight the newest EdTech tools and offers tech tutorials for teachers. Between the two of them, they have presented across the 27 schools in their district, at their Regional Education Service Center, TCEA, TCEA for Tots, FETC, ISTE & Central America. They are both MIE Experts, MIE Trainers, and Flipgrid & Wakelet Ambassadors. You can follow them individually at: @jlo731 and @salleeclark, or together at @jenallee1!
Follow #Jenallee!
Be sure to follow Jeni and Sallee individually at: @jlo731 and @salleeclark, or together at @jenallee1! Also be sure to check out their YouTube show at either of the links below!
"What's in the Bag EDU?" (Episode 4: Karie Frauenhoffer, @legitkfrauey)
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos. Today, we welcome Karie Frauenhoffer, or @LegitKFrauey, from Kernersville, NC!
Welcome to the fourth episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome Karie Frauenhoffer, or @LegitKFrauey, from Kernersville, NC!
HI! My name is Karie Frauenhoffer. I am a 7th Grade Language Arts and Social Studies teacher from Kernersville, North Carolina. I am currently entering my 9th year of teaching and this year will be the first year in 4 years I am teaching Social Studies again!
(please note, below are affiliate links)
Item #1:
PaperMate Inkjoy Gel Pens -- Every teacher needs a good pen to use for all of that lesson plan writing and grading! I love these because they don’t smear like other gel pens, they’re super comfortable to write with AND they come in such pretty colors ;). To purchase, click here.
Item #2:
I love to incorporate spelling challenges into fun classroom activities I do, like escape rooms or breakouts. Bananagrams is a great letter tile game that you can use to incorporate those spelling challenges! This item was found on Amazon here.
Item #3:
Adhesive Pocket Squares from Target Dollar Spot! They are great for labeling desks with desk numbers or providing little reminders! :)
Item #4:
An Amazon Echo Dot: This is a great little gadget to add to your classroom. I love to use Alexa for a timer, to play games & for some ambient music while the kiddos work! To purchase, click here.
Item #5:
Scotch Laminator: Every teacher needs their own personal laminator. Let’s be honest… sometimes we don’t have time to wait for others to do our laminating for us. This scotch laminator is a great deal & super user friendly -- Its my favorite B2S tool! To purchase, click here.
Never compare yourself to snapshots you see on the internet. These are supplies I’ve acquired over the years but, not something I had when I first started!
Purchase Links:
Here’s where you can find direct links to purchase the items that Karie mentioned. Please note: these are affiliate links. If you have any questions, please reach out to Karie on Twitter at: @legitkfrauey!
"What's in the Bag EDU?" (Episode 3: Amber Hinkel, @Hinkels_Hangout)
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos. Today, we welcome Amber Hinkel, or @Hinkels_Hangout, from Naples, FL!
Welcome to the third episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome Amber Hinkel, or @Hinkels_Hangout, from Naples, FL!
Amber is a K-5 Technology teacher who is an absolute #MustFollow on social media. Check out the tools that she’s using in her classroom below!
Item #1:
Children’s book, She Persisted, By Chelsea Clinton. I love to read this during Hour Of Code as we are constantly reminding students that perseverance is needed. To purchase, click here (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Item #2:
Cordless COB Light Switch, Students use these battery operated lights when recording to signal to classmates to work quietly when in their area. This item was found on Amazon here (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Item #3:
Portable Charger, I have some older iPads that have a hard time holding a charge for the time that they are needed to be in use, and supplies are limited so I have a few portable chargers so that students can continue to use the device without being tethered to the wall. You can find lots of different options on Amazon, but here is an example! (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Item #4:
Bluetooth Microphone, I like to have a bluetooth microphone so students can venture further away from their device and have more mobility while recording. There are many options available on Amazon, but be sure to check the specifications to see if the product will work with your device. Here’s an example of one that works with an iPhone X!
Item #5:
Wired Lapel Microphone. I purchase the wired lapel mics because they are way more affordable and perfect for quick Flipgrid recordings and similar assignments. Again, there are lots of options on Amazon, but you can find a similar product here. (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Item #6:
RocketBook, reusable notebook, using the app you can upload your handwritten notes to a destination of your choice such as Onenote, OneDrive, Dropbox, e-mail, basically anywhere you would like to digitally store files. To purchase, click here. (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Purchase Links:
Here’s where you can find direct links to purchase the items that Andy mentioned. Please note: these are affiliate links. If you have any questions, please reach out to Andy on Twitter at: @MrCoachK15!
"What's in the Bag EDU?" (Episode 2: Andy Knueven, @MrCoachK15)
Inspired by Amoeba Records, this spin takes an educational approach and shares some neat tools that educators are using in their classrooms. Today, we welcome Andy Knueven (@MrCoachK15 on social media), a Fifth Grade math/science teacher from Zionsville, IN!
Welcome to the second episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome Andy Knueven, or @MrCoachK15, from Zionsville, IN!
My name is Andy Knueven, 5th grade math and science teacher at Zionsville West Middle School in Zionsville, IN. I love all EdTech things that better support instruction and the learning for our students. There are lots of items that can simply be fun but as educators, we are the most creative people in finding ways to incorporate items to support establishing a great classroom environment that is welcoming and supportive of the learning for all!
Item #1:
USB Hub - Most computers don’t have many USB ports anymore and quickly fill up with items. Having a USB Port Hub eliminates this issue. I can have my wireless mouse, keyboard, a microphone, thumb drive, and any other USB powered items all accessible anytime. The one I featured is here (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Item #2:
I fully utilize my iPad within my class for notes and project apps that support the instruction occurring. Having a Windows computer but an Apple iPad, I use https://www.airserver.com/ to mirror my iPad screen to my computer. From there, that’s projected for my students to learn with too!
Item #3:
Digital Drawing Tablets - Giving students access to digital ink changes has evolved note taking within my class. I use Microsoft OneNote with USB plug-in drawing tablets which allows students to have the same access to digital ink as I do on a computer. This item was found on Amazon here (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Item #4:
Drying Racks for Tablet Organization - taking a kitchen drying rack, I was able to help organize these tablets for students to find theirs with ease.
Item #5:
Clear Pocket Chart - These can be used in so many ways from holding calculators, cell phones, chargers, headphones, or for me the digital ink pens. Each is numbered to correlate to the tablet and that student. A similar style can be found on Amazon here (please note: this is an affiliate link).
Purchase Links:
Here’s where you can find direct links to purchase the items that Andy mentioned. Please note: these are affiliate links. If you have any questions, please reach out to Andy on Twitter at: @MrCoachK15!
Follow Andy!
Andy is constantly sharing incredible ideas! We recommend following him on social media at:
“What’s in the Bag EDU?” (Episode 1: Joe Merrill, @MrMerrillsClass)
Inspired by Amobea Records, this spin takes an educational approach and shares some neat tools that educators are using in their classrooms. Today, we welcome Joe Merrill, or @MrMerrillsClass!
Welcome to the first episode of
“What’s in the Bag EDU?”
We’re putting an EDU spin on the series originally by Amoeba Records! In “What’s in the Bag EDU,” educators share tools that they’re using in their classrooms. When possible, we’ll provide links to purchase the items discussed, just below the videos.
Today, we welcome Joe Merrill, or @MrMerrillsClass!
Purchase Links:
Here’s where you can find direct links to purchase the items that Joe mentioned: