IN Murrysville Fall 2019 | Page 31

community, and although it may look very different in this day and age, a strong focus is being put on the importance of creating a safe school culture and tapping into technology for limitless learning. In 2019, students, parents, teachers, and administrators are seeing changes both inside and outside of the classroom. One of the biggest changes in recent years comes in the form of technology. Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to change education tools and is expected to increase in implementation in U.S. classrooms by 47.5% in the next three years, according to the Artificial Intelligence Market in the U.S. Education Sector report. In addition to AI, other technologies are providing students with the opportunity to connect with classmates in other countries, giving teachers the ability to educate a virtual classroom from the comfort of their own home, and expanding access to applications that were once inaccessible. Another key focus in education this year is on ensuring that students feel safe, connected, supported, and challenged through a variety of different ways. School culture and safety are being addressed and adapted based on recent school safety concerns across the country. Teachers, administrators, families, and community groups are putting a critical focus on social-emotional learning activities to facilitate a better look into dealing with anger management, conflict resolution, empathy, and other important life skills. School is often the only place where social and emotional learning deficiencies can be addressed; therefore teaching students these invaluable life skills ultimately prepares them to become active members of society. This is another pivotal point in a teacher’s role in the classroom. Teachers continue to play an integral role in the lives of students, one that cannot be replaced with even the most advanced type of technology. This isn’t to say that the way we taught even 15 years ago is suitable. Teachers’ roles are continually changing, and their need to adapt is critical to students’ success. School administrators must also support and train educators with the tools and techniques they are being given to ensure successful integration in the classroom. Continued on next page > $6 HAIRCUT OR SHAVE First Come, First Served CHANGE YOUR CAREER IN LESS THAN A YEAR! Don’t Delay. Enroll TODAY at BSP.edu 5056 William Penn Hwy, Monroeville, PA 15146 Murrysview Shops, Route 22 and Old William Penn Highway www.bsp.edu MURRYSVILLE ❘ FALL 2019 29