Technology has become an important tool in our classroom. It has, quite literally, changed the face and focus of learning for many of my students. Our class has an opportunity this year to have 1:1 iPads. It’s working for us. You can see it in their faces. Their attitude towards “school” has shifted from one of obligation to enthusiasm. Kids are engaged, genuinely engaged.

Now we get to share that with a lot more of you. My class, along with several others at my school and in my district, will be participating in Digital Learning Day on February 1, 2012. The Alliance for Excellent Education, in conjunction with a number of sponsors, educators and civic leaders, have organized this day to help improve the quality of learning for all students. And for several months a workgroup consisting of Education and EdTech leaders have come together to assist the Alliance in planning and promoting Digital Learning Day.

Education is evolving and technology is one of the catalysts that seem to be positively affecting change. We hope that through this effort we can provide educators, parents and the community with more resources to provide a higher quality of learning to each of our students. Events will take place on various levels, from what you are doing in your classroom to a National Town Hall Meeting in Washington, DC.

When you go to the Digital Learning Day site to Sign Up you’ll find resources, ideas, and strategies in the Toolkits, and be able to see what others schools across the country are doing in the Showcases.

There are so many ways to participate this coming February 1. Sign up so we can count you among those working towards improving our students learning. Start a conversation with your peers, your family, and your neighbors. Try something new that day. Use a digital tool to reshape a learning experience for your students. And please, share your success. We know you are doing amazing things. Showcase them to your friends across the country.