For teachers and those in the field of education, efficiency is often misunderstood as getting more done in less time. But the real value of efficiency isn't productivity for productivity's sake. It's creating space. Space for meaningful conversations with our students, colleagues, or community. 🧵

On site at the @merlin.mb.ca office AND a busy day with special guests means *all* the photos. Take a guess on how many photos got added to the camera roll today! #MERLIN_MB

It is August and despite still being "summer break", I know that most educators are already starting to think about the year ahead. I've seen the updates from those who have already visited their classrooms or started prepping. Maybe your mind is on new classes/ initiatives/ opportunities 🧵

7 years ago - PowerSchool University, Boston Skills I'm still using today via MERLIN's support of Manitoba School For The Deaf (MSD), who is approaching their second year using PS SIS.

🚲 Going for variety and trying the spin bike with the standing desk rather than the walking pad. Our area has been experiencing flooding and its evident that I won't have a usable basement for quite some time. Since the bike is upstairs anyways I figured we might as well try something new!

As a former classroom teacher, summer has always represented a chance to pause and recharge. As a 12-month employee now, I've come to appreciate that rest isn't something we should have to earn; it's something that should be prioritized all through the school year as it helps us do our work well.

Summer office loading...

Thank you to Portage la Prairie and Rolling River School divisions for having me join you virtually to chat about AI and "look forward" to what role it may play in the 26-27 school year. 🧵

Thank you to everyone who welcomed MERLIN into your learning spaces this year; being part of your journey has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my role If you’re beginning to think about future PD opportunities, now is a great time to start planning!

Got to kick off my day online with an amazing group of people as we worked together as part of the Manitoba AI Pathways Advisory Committee. I always appreciate hearing about the interesting things that are happening across the province and the diverse perspectives that represent all areas of MB

Technology can connect us to information, resources, and people around the world. But meaningful participation requires more than access alone. For many learners, especially those from historically marginalized communities, feeling safe, respected, and... 🧵

Technology isn't neutral; it reflects the decisions made by the people who build it. That's why inclusive design matters. #ToolboxTuesday

Were diverse perspectives included in the design process? These aren't just technical considerations. They're questions about belonging. I remind you to reflect on how seemingly small design choices can either create barriers or help people feel seen, respected, and included.

When we talk about digital equity, we often focus on devices, connectivity & access. Those conversations are important but equity also means looking at how tech is experienced once someone logs in Can users represent their identity accurately? Do learners see themselves reflected in the content?

When we talk about digital equity, it's easy to focus on devices, connectivity, and access to tools. Those things matter but equity also includes representation and belonging. Learners engage more deeply when they see themselves reflected in the content they consume, the examples they encounter..🧵

🌈 The Hidden Curriculum of Technology 🌈 As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s worth reflecting on a reality that often goes unnoticed: technology is not neutral. The apps, algorithms, search engines, and social media platforms our students use every day are built by people, trained on data and... 🧵

Its a big day today! Wearing my @merlin.mb.ca merch for good luck. Stay tuned for updates in a few weeks 🤞🏼

Thank you to everyone who chose to spend some time with me last week at Riding The Wave! Shout out to Andy McKiel and everyone who makes this event a highlight of the year! #RTW2026 #MERLIN_MB

I've somehow passed the 1 year mark since I joined the @merlin.mb.ca family & got thrown right into the whirlwind of RTW Every day is a new adventure & this first year has flown by! Forever thankful to have been given this opportunity & to the entire MERLIN team for welcoming me Bring on year 2

Riding The Wave conference is next week already! I'll be there; will you? As I was going back through pictures it appears that I have a theme.... So I guess look for the one in pink! Join me and the @merlin.mb.ca crew in sessions A8, B8, and D8 on Thursday, May 7th.

As priorities shift and new insights emerge, recalibration helps ensure that our work stays aligned with purpose. Reclibration is about making intentional adjustments so that our systems, strategies, and efforts continue to support the people they’re designed for 🧵

Not every improvement comes from something new. Often, it comes from adjusting what you already have in motion. Perhaps it is simplifying processes, strengthening systems, and/or responding to what we’re learning along the way. 🧵

This was a pretty fun surprise to walk in on when I arrived in Winnipeg today! Complete with a standing desk, I'm right at home now during the days I'm based out of the office 🙂 #MERLIN_MB

I am using April as a natural pause point.  Not to stop components of work, but to take a closer look at it. What’s working?  What’s gaining traction?  What might need a shift? Reflection is about making progress visible so I can move forward with greater clarity and intention.

New @merlin.mb.ca merch definitely calls for Monday photo! #MERLIN_MB

As I get closer to my 1-year anniversary at MERLIN, I’ve been spending some time reflecting on the past year; learning, connecting, and various opportunities to grow into my role. April feels like the right moment to pause, refine, and recalibrate. Not to start over, but to build 🧵

I spent my Wednesday in Lorette, Manitoba discussing accessibility within the #MicrosoftEDU suite. I was joined by ~60 staff from across Seine River School Division as we explored Microsoft's core accessibility features, Learning Tools & more! 📸 Photo Credit: Stephanie Callewaert #MERLIN_MB

Action also includes knowing when to pause. To all my teacher friends who are now on spring break; thank you for the care, energy, and commitment you bring every day. Rest well. You’ve earned it.

3 full weeks in and I'm on track to reach 400km by the end of the week! We have 9 teams across multiple departments participating in our step challenge; stay tuned for an update in April on how we all did #MERLIN_MB

We are getting ready to head into spring break and the return in April is like a mini "fresh start". This can be the perfect opportunity to hone in on being consistent with your #edtech goals. What habit(s) would you like to employ after Spring Break? #ToolboxTuesday