As educational technology specialist for the Office of Catholic Schools, Erin Weaver assists schools in optimizing the use of powerful technology tools to improve instructional practice. Erin’s skill set is a vital part of the shared services available to our alliance of Catholic schools. Get to know Erin:
1. On a given day, what kinds of things might be on your to-do list?
My to-do list includes a fun mix of collaboration and projects! I am in conversation each day with individuals from at least a third of our schools, assisting with their technology. In between those conversations, I am maintaining our student information system (Infinite Campus), our learning management system (Canvas), and our testing platform (NWEA). Finally, I get to dive into the creative side of things and work on a variety of technology and curriculum related projects, such as our Flipgrid professional learning community for teachers to connect with each other, creating videos, and sending EdTech Tips out to our alliance of Catholic schools!
2. How were you led to serve Catholic schools?
The Holy Spirit! As a young aspiring teacher, I thought the Lord was leading me to teach in an inner-city school. However, a prompting of the Holy Spirit led me to serve in our Catholic schools where I would be able to share my faith and bring others closer to Christ in my role as an educator.
3. What’s your favorite technology tool at the moment?
Gosh, this is a tough one! I would have to say Flipgrid. I love how we are able to use this to connect all of our teachers in the diocese to grow professionally. I also love how I see our teachers using this tool to amplify student voice in the classroom. To make it even more amazing, I have seen some of our schools use Flip QR code posters to engage parents at parent-teacher conferences as well!
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids are an alliance of 31 vibrant learning communities (26 elementary and five high schools) serving more than 6,340 preschool through 12th grade students throughout West Michigan. Our schools inspire young people to grow in Catholic faith and grace, achieve more in school and life, develop creativity and character, and feel welcomed and cherished for their unique gifts. We partner with parents to awaken the whole child to a world of light and life — that grows better and brighter when children reach their potential.