NEW YORK, June 5, 2002

New York City public school teachers (K-12) will join leading experts in the field for two days of intensive technology and curriculum development workshops at the annual TeachNet Institute June 27-28, 2002 at City College. TeachNet (www.teachersnetwork.org/TeachNet ) seeks to improve student learning by helping teachers develop appropriate and effective instructional materials that infuse the Internet and support local and state standards. Teachers have access to curriculum and technical specialists, grants, and a supportive network to further develop their skills throughout the year. Teacher projects are published online and disseminated to educators both locally and worldwide. These teachers are in the vanguard of educational reform, ensuring quality control of classroom instruction and responsible use of technology.

New and returning members alike will participate in workshops designed to increase knowledge and use of educational resources on the Internet. Dr. Sheila Gersh, Director of Technology and International Programs at City College and world-renowned advocate of teacher professional development, is the key-note speaker. Dr. Gersh will explore a variety of issues pertaining to using the Internet in the classroom, such as joining collaborative projects, "child-safe e-mail," evaluation methods and accountability, and other online tools. The afternoon hands-on computer lab sessions will complement this workshop as teachers go online to apply theory to practice, designing curriculum units addressing student needs and enhancing teaching and learning.

John Schaefer, founder and director of Children's Media Workshop, will conduct a session designed to empower teachers to use media technologies in their classrooms. Through the acquisition of real media literacy and digital technology skills educators will be able to use the language of popular culture to make learning interesting, relevant, and effective. 

Teachers will leave the Institute equipped and enthused with new contacts, new skills, and new ideas to share with their colleagues.

About Teachers Network
Teachers Network is a non-profit national and international education organization, with more than 28 affiliates, that identifies and connects innovative teachers exemplifying professionalism and creativity within public school systems. Over 40,000 public school teachers have received Teachers Network grants and fellowships in the areas of curriculum, leadership, policy, and new media.