Perhaps the biggest challenge of distance learning is how to engage all students in the virtual learning environment.  How do we know if students are paying attention, making meaning, and comprehending the lesson over Zoom? How do we support students to participate and interact in meaningful ways in the virtual learning context?  Nearpod is a district-approved and purchased platform that generates participation, engagement, and checks for understanding. For English learners, there are built-in features that further support language development including text being read aloud and options for recording the teacher’s voice and students’ oral responses.

As well, some educators have leveraged Nearpod as a tool for anti-racist teaching. Check out this teacher feature of Blanca Hernandez from John O’Connell High School to learn more her insights for using Nearpod.

Because Nearpod is a platform that allows the teacher to direct in real time with students on zoom or for lessons to be shared with students so they can direct at their own pace, Nearpod will potentially be a powerful app for hybrid learning. 

We recommend using Nearpod with students in grades 2-12. All teachers, admin, TSAs are invited to attend upcoming training sessions that will take place on upcoming Wednesday and Thursday afternoons.  All sessions will feature a 1-hour workshop led by a Nearpod representative, followed by a 30-minute “office hours” with an MPD Content Specialist to support with any additional questions. Please pre-register at the links provided.

Thursday, February 25th, 3-4pm

Thursday, March 4, 2-3:00pm

Thursday, March 11, 2-3pm

Thursday, March 18, 2-3pm

Wednesday, April 7th 1:15-2:45

For more information about these trainings, contact  Lucas Elbaum in the Multilingual Pathways Department.