The Missouri Reader WINTER ISSUE Vol. 44, Issue 1 | Page 32

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This entry appeared in Dr Sam's Dec 19th, 2020 blog and is reprinted with permission

As many of my readers know, I am a long-time member of the ILA. I am currently Chairman (used to be called President) of the state affiliate. I am proud to say that our membership is quite active in providing folks in our state needed literacy services. One example of this is last week’s BTAP (Beginning Teachers Assistance Program) for St. Louis Area beginning teachers. This program has been held twice a year for a number of years. Dr. Betty Porter Walls, a long time ILA member and an MLA board member, has overseen BTAP for St. Louis Public Schools. Many of the presenters at this event are also ILA members who donate their services and expertise. This is just one of many examples of the Missouri Literacy Association’s literacy work around our state. See our website for details https://mla31.wildapricot.org/

This past weekend I did a one-hour BTAP session about distance learning. Here is some of the advice I gave to the beginning teachers:

If possible, get a document camera and learn how to use it. One low-cost option is to get software that turns your smartphone into a doc camera. I use EpcoCamPro. That is one of several software programs that can turn a smartphone into a webcam. You can then use a stand such as the one below to hold your phone: