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RAFT Workshops
RAFT In-house Workshops
RAFT's workshop program is designed to enrich educational programs by facilitating the practice of hands-on teaching across the curriculum. RAFT's material-based, hands-on workshops are unique in that each workshop attendee receives RAFT materials to support implementation of the activities shared in the class.
View a printable version of our Workshops Flyer.
Schedule at a Glance
» Branding for Teachers - CANCELED
» Tablet Computers in Education - CANCELED
» Google Intermediate Search - NEW DATE
» History of Flight - POSTPONED TO SUMMER 2012
» Battery Science: Light and Power Up the Learning!
» Potpourri 2 - FULL!
» Designing Your Website - CANCELED
» Photoshop 3D Series: 2/7/12 - 2/9/12 -- CANCELED
» Fractals and Beyond
» Technology for Pre-K to Grade 2
» Shrink Art Fun
» Designing PDF Documents with Adobe InDesign CS5 - CANCELED
» Applied Zentangles
» Google Spreadsheets
» Google Earth
» Advanced Math Mini-Series
» Google SketchUp
» Earth Art Mini-series
» Weaving Mini-series
» Drawing for Teachers Who Think They Can't
» The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence
» Google Advanced Search
» Exploring the Garden in Watercolors & Inks - FULL
» Science Mini-series: Taking Science Outside the Box
» Incorporating Technology in Your Lesson Plans
» There was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly
» Early Education Special Needs Strategies Series (3/21 and 3/24)
» Google Search Pragmatics: Sharpening Your Search Skills
» Soda Can Art - FULL!
» Joy of Pencils
» Team Building
» Google Sites
» Great Ideas for Creating Re-purposed Gifts
» Google Tech Web Search
» Earth Science Basics
» Fraction Tiles
» Science of Sound and Music
» DeKooning Meets Picasso
» Google Presentation
» Solar Energy Workshop
» Digital Documents:
Creating a Microsite with InDesign CS5 - CANCELED
» Early Ed Music & Movement
» Art: As Important as ABC
» Design Thinking - CANCELED
» Branding for Teachers - CANCELED
» Tablet Computers in Education - CANCELED
» Designing Your Website - CANCELED
» K-2 Science Mini-series
» Working with English Language Students
» Photoshop: Archiving & Photo Repair 2-day workshop (5/8 and 5/9) - CANCELED
» Photoshop Right-to-Right Project - CANCELED
» Middle School Science
» Wild & Crazy Books
» Photoshop 3D Series (2/7-2/9)- CANCELED
» Early Education Special Needs Strategies Series (5/17, 5/18, and 5/19)
» Homer: Computer-Based Energy Projects
Online Registration Instructions
| Register Online in Just 5 Easy Steps |
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Select the class(es) you want to take (put a checkmark next to the class). |
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Click the Enroll Now button. |
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Complete the online registration form. Be sure to include your e-mail address and payment information (MC and VISA only). |
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Press the Submit button. |
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You will receive an e-mail confirmation once your payment and registration are processed. |
Enrollment Policy
Waitlist Policy
Due to the popularity of RAFT workshops, we do maintain waitlists. There is no charge to be placed on a waitlist, and there is no obligation to attend the class should a spot become available. Should a spot open up in a class, RAFT will contact waitlist registrants in order of registration to offer the opportunity to enroll at that point. RAFT requests that waitlist registrants do not make plans to attend a class unless they have been contacted; seats are only made available if we have received a cancellation from a registered participant.
HideEarn Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
All RAFT workshops offer you the opportunity to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from either San Jose State University or Foothill College, depending on the class.
Foothill College
All Foothill LINC program classes earn the participant 1/2 CEU for each 6-hour class (12 hours = 1 CEU). For LINC classes taught as part of the RAFT schedule, the cost of CEUs is included in the registration fee. On the day of the class, all participants are expected to complete the Foothill College registration paperwork to formally register for the class. Completing this registration both helps pay for the cost of the program and is necessary for earning the CEUs from Foothill. Foothill will invoice RAFT and participants can then access their transcripts.
San Jose State University (SJSU)
Participants can purchase one CEU from SJSU for every 10 hours of RAFT workshop instruction completed within a semester. This includes hands-on and non-Foothill computer classes. The cost is $60 for each CEU. Simply request a SJSU registration form from RAFT and submit to SJSU both the form and your check payable to SJSU. Partial units are not available; Foothill class hours and hours from previous terms are not applicable.
For more information, please contact RAFT at (408) 451-1421 or .
HideFees and Cancellations
Fees are listed after each class description, all materials included. Non-members who meet our membership guidelines can participate for a slightly higher fee. Classes fill up fast, so participants are encouraged to register and pay in advance, or provide a deposit. Fees are nontransferable, and refunds are only granted if you cancel at least one week prior to class. All refunds are paid with a RAFT Gift Card. If you fail to attend class or cancel after the one-week deadline, you will not be given a refund. Deposits are returned when the class is completed, or if you cancel one or more weeks in advance. You can register online or by phone at (408) 451-1421.
To cancel your enrollment in a class - email or call 408-451-1421.
HideClass Locations
RAFT In-house workshops are currently held at one of the following locations. Please verify the location of your class(es) when registering.
RAFT San Jose
1355 Ridder Park Drive, San Jose (near 101 and 880)RAFT Redwood City
101 Twin Dolphin Drive, Redwood City, CA 94065
Filter Workshops
Have your workshops selected?
| Workshop Name and Details | Date & Time | Location | Subjects | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Branding for Teachers - CANCELED: The times, they are a changing! The new economy is requiring everyone, no matter what profession, to market themselves as a professional with defined skills. In this class, you will learn how to find your place and function in this new world, and how to position and market yourself through the technique of branding. (Will repeat 5/2/2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $10 for members; $25 for non-members | Wednesday, February 1, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) |   | |
| Tablet Computers in Education - CANCELED: The tablet computer is changing how curriculum and content is presented in the classroom. If you have not used or been introduced to this new tool, then take the time to attend this class so you will know what you have been missing. This new technology is just great! (Will repeat 5/3/2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $10 for members; $25 for non-members | Thursday, February 2, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Google Intermediate Search - NEW DATE: This is an intermediate search class for educators who have some experience with Google. Learn how to go to the next level of searching, which will benefit both you and your students. INSTRUCTOR: Daniel M Russell is a research scientist at Google where he works in the area of search quality, with a focus on understanding what makes Google users happy in their use of web search. He studies how people do their searches, trying to understand the most common traps and pathways to successful searches. Dan has been a researcher at IBM's Almaden Research Center, Apple's Advanced Technology Group and Xerox PARC. He received his PhD from the University of Rochester, and remembers a time when email addresses didn't end in .com. He enjoys long distance running, making music and word play, becoming disgruntled when he can't do all three in one day. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, February 2, 2012 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| History of Flight - POSTPONED TO SUMMER 2012: From kites and hot air balloons to the Wright Flyer and space travel, join us on a hands-on journey to examine how flight has evolved through the ages. Participants will receive curriculum guides and ideas on how to use the activities in the classroom, during a Family Science Night, or as part of an after-school program. INSTRUCTORS: Juanita Ryan is a retired K-5 teacher from the Berryessa Union School District in San Jose. Susan Sakaguchi is a former special education teacher. Her experience includes working with K-5th grade students level with a variety of learning disabilities. TARGET AUDIENCE: K-5th grade teachers; interested educators welcome COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, February 4, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City |   | |
| Battery Science: Light and Power Up the Learning!: Gain hands-on experience for making a number of electrical projects that will move, buzz, and light up. Sets of electrical parts will be provided for duplicating the activities in the classroom. The materials can enhance 4th grade lessons on electricity, or be used for enrichment, after school, or summer programs. INSTRUCTOR: Michael Pollock taught hands-on science to both mainstream and special needs elementary students for 25 years. He currently works at RAFT helping to produce educational kits. TARGET AUDIENCE: 4th grade teachers and up; interested educators welcome COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, February 4, 2012 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| Potpourri 2 - FULL!: (Wait List Only: Currently 8 on list)Make a variety of new and unique cards to impress your students, friends, and relatives. Cards can be used for any season or occasion. Some are magical while others are perfect for display. Instructions for card making are very student-friendly. This continuation of the Potpourri theme includes four new designs for Spring. INSTRUCTORS: Jean Suzuki is a retired geometry and computer teacher who loves crafting with paper. She has been creating RAFT project ideas and leading RAFT workshops for several years. Gloriane Hirata has been an active supporter of RAFT and was formerly the Science Coordinator for the Santa Clara County Office of Education. TARGET AUDIENCE: 4th grade teachers and up; interested educators welcome COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, February 4, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) |   | |
| Designing Your Website - CANCELED: This class combines basic web design principles with how to create and format your personal website, using the tools in Adobe CS5. The class uses website examples and hands-on projects for easy learning and understanding. (Will repeat on 5/5/2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, February 4, 2012 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Photoshop 3D Series: 2/7/12 - 2/9/12 -- CANCELED: The most exciting addition to Photoshop in years is the ability to do 3D graphics with ease. This multi-session class covers Photoshop 3D basics and 3D scene compositing. The class is based on hands-on projects for easy learning and understanding. INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members ADDITIONAL DATES: | Tuesday, February 7, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Fractals and Beyond: Defined by repeating patterns that are self-similar on every scale, fractals are found in nature, as branching trees, watershed drainage patterns, ferns and broccoli. This workshop will demonstrate how fractals can be related to Sierpinski's gasket, to patterns, to equations, to graphing, and more. INSTRUCTOR: Jeanne Lazzarini is RAFT’s Mathematics Activity Developer specializing in Mathematics Education and has a lifetime Single Subject CA Teaching Credential in Mathematics (K - adult). Her educational background includes a B.S. in Mathematics with honors from Santa Clara University and having attended the Masters in Teaching Mathematics graduate program at UC Davis, in addition to post-graduate studies in Computer Science from Santa Clara University. She has taught adult satellite tracking classes for the Dept of Defense, GATE Math classes for San Jose Unified, first grade (2 years) and Jr. High Math (7 years) at a Catholic school, and Summer Bellarmine High School Geometry. TARGET AUDIENCE: 5th - 8th grade teachers; interested educators welcome COST: $20 for members; $35 for non-members | Thursday, February 9, 2012 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) |  | |
| Technology for Pre-K to Grade 2: Learn ways to help your students become familiar with technology. You will learn about free software that students can use for drawing and storytelling as well as websites that are made for young learners that reinforce reading and math skills. INSTRUCTOR: Terri Sarappo is the technology instructor at St. Dunstan's School in Millbrae. In this role she works with students in Kindergarten through 8th grade, teaching them computer skills. The objective of this program is to expand on classroom learning and to incorporate hands-on projects using the computer for research and to create projects ranging from presentations, computer drawing, videos and podcasts. TARGET AUDIENCE: Pre-K through 2nd grade teachers COST: $20 for members and $35 for non-members | Saturday, February 11, 2012 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City |  | |
| Shrink Art Fun: Shrink Art can be done with purchased plastic or #6 recycled plastic that you find at RAFT. Learn the secrets behind creating beautiful miniature art pieces to use as pins, on cards, and in other projects. Although adult supervision is required for the heating process, children of all ages can color the plastic with paint and pens. INSTRUCTOR: Georgina Patterson is a 2nd grade reading teacher in San Jose and a dedicated RAFT volunteer. TARGET AUDIENCE: 4th grade teachers and up; interested educators welcome COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, February 11, 2012 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Designing PDF Documents with Adobe InDesign CS5 - CANCELED: Adobe PDF documents can be designed as easily as 1, 2, 3 using the navigation, video, animation, links, and slide presentations capabilities of Adobe InDesign CS5. The class uses hands-on projects and exercises for easy learning and understanding. INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, February 11, 2012 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Applied Zentangles: Zentangles is an art form that continues to grow in popularity throughout the world because it is doodling at its finest. It uses imagination, invokes creativity and is FUN! If you have learned the basics of Zentangle, then you are ready for the next step. Applied Zentangles removes some of the rules, to allow you to create-outside-the-box. Learn some of the more complicated, optical illusion-type tangles while applying tangles to blown eggs, clothing, various household items, using color, calligraphy, etc. This art form can be used at home, on vacation, or incorporated into your school curriculum. Zentangles are also a great learning tool for special needs classes of all ages. This will be a repeat of the Fall 2011 workshop, with lots of new ideas! Watch for new examples of Zentangling projects through RAFT San Jose. INSTRUCTORS: Pam Van Dyck is an artist and calligrapher. She works for Catalyst for Youth, where she teaches art. She is a long-time RAFT member. Lisa Van Dyck has been doing art projects for several years. She volunteers with the Catalyst for Youth Program. TARGET AUDIENCE: 3rd grade teachers and up; interested educators of all levels COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, February 11, 2012 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| Google Spreadsheets: Google Spreadsheets is a free spreadsheet program that stores your files securely online. This gives you the opportunity to access your documents at anytime and from anywhere with an internet connection. Google Docs also allows you, your colleagues, and your students to share spreadsheets and work collaboratively to create and edit them. Google Forms is a free and easy tool to create a survey, make it available online, and have the information automatically show up in a spreadsheet. Come and find out how to transform student assignments using Google Forms. INSTRUCTOR: Mary Fran Lynch is a third grade teacher at Alta Visa School in the Union School District where she enjoys integrating technology into as many lessons as she can. In addition to the workshops she has offered at RAFT, she has presented Google Docs at SVCUE, the Good Teaching Conference, and for staff development training. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, February 16, 2012 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Google Earth: This is a low-stress introduction to Google Earth, starting from basic navigation tools then moving on to more complex gallery exploration, multimedia placemarks and other online tools. You will learn clever ways to display new content as well as view our planet's history, composition, and inhabitants from a range of perspectives. INSTRUCTOR: D Feher is a Program Manager at Google Inc, training educators on new geospatial technologies for educational environments. Before joining Google's Education Research Unit, D managed international security, public appearances, policy advocacy and financial due diligence for Google's Executive Chairman, Dr. Eric Schmidt, during his last 4 years as CEO. Before joining Google, D worked as a center administrator for a computer modeling project with the Center on Social and Economic Dynamics at the Brookings Institution in Washington,DC. D Feher holds a Masters of Arts in Public Policy from the George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Science from Carnegie Mellon University. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, February 23, 2012 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Advanced Math Mini-Series: Advanced math for advanced students. Taught by two of our favorite math instructors, this one-day class will cover some higher math topics. Using RAFT kits, materials and idea sheets, you will learn how to help your students visualize difficult concepts, as well as to stretch their minds. INSTRUCTORS: Jeanne Lazzarini is RAFT’s Mathematics Activity Developer specializing in Mathematics Education and has a lifetime Single Subject CA Teaching Credential in Mathematics (K - adult). Her educational background includes a B.S. in Mathematics with honors from Santa Clara University and having attended the Masters in Teaching Mathematics graduate program at UC Davis, in addition to post-graduate studies in Computer Science from Santa Clara University. She has taught adult satellite tracking classes for the Dept of Defense, GATE Math classes for San Jose Unified, first grade (2 years) and Jr. High Math (7 years) at a Catholic school, and Summer Bellarmine High School Geometry. Tsing Bardin has been working with elementary school teachers and in university teacher training programs for many years. She has retired from teaching physics at SJSU and at City College of San Francisco. TARGET AUDIENCE: 6th grade teachers and above COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, February 25, 2012 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Google SketchUp: SketchUp, while not part of the usual Google suite, is quickly becoming a compelling tool for civics, physics, geometry, and architecture students alike. Learn how to build structures for fun using a range of basic tools and shortcuts, as well as to craft a 3D model of a favorite building in your hometown. Bring a picture of an interesting public building you see each day, and we will walk you through the process of drafting and submitting a structure for approval on Google Maps Street View. INSTRUCTOR: D Feher is a Program Manager at Google Inc, training educators on new geospatial technologies for educational environments. Before joining Google's Education Research Unit, D managed international security, public appearances, policy advocacy and financial due diligence for Google's Executive Chairman, Dr. Eric Schmidt, during his last 4 years as CEO. Before joining Google, D worked as a center administrator for a computer modeling project with the Center on Social and Economic Dynamics at the Brookings Institution in Washington,DC. D Feher holds a Masters of Arts in Public Policy from the George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Science from Carnegie Mellon University. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, March 1, 2012 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Earth Art Mini-series: Prepare for Earth Day by attending this 3-in-1 workshop series. Three instructors will take you through a day of unique projects: building and drawing trees, quilting with recycled paper, and making books from what you have. RAFT is the perfect place to learn about repurposing, reusing, and recycling materials! Without art, "Earth" becomes "eh". INSTRUCTORS: CJ Grossman has an MFA from California College of the Arts and a BS in social Welfare from San Francisco State. CJ works with mixed media, specializing in book arts, and exhibits her work nationally. CJ has taught thousands of children and adults how to make books and has a passion for teaching educators how to make books with kids. She lives in Berkeley and is former editor of "Kids Making Books." Mary Schinnerer has been teaching paper quilting for a number of years. She loves to use recycled paper to create her art pieces, which makes RAFT the perfect place for this artist to teach. Kathryn Rone is the Cultural Kaleidoscope Coordinator at The Palo Alto Art Center and has spent the past eight years developing children's art lessons. She has taught Kinder - Jr. High students, led teacher workshops and has created kid's art projects for festivals. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, March 3, 2012 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM | RAFT San Jose | | |
| Weaving Mini-series: Weaving comes in many forms, and involves math (pattern recognition and counting), language(written and verbal), social studies(cultural uses) and art. It is also a great way to enhance hand-eye coordination. Learn basic basket weaving, finger weaving, and kumihimo in this fun-filled day-long workshop. Three instructors will take you through the world of weaving, showing you all sorts of uses for this art-based activity in your curriculum. INSTRUCTORS: Patti Henry has taught art at all levels since 1966, including nearly 13 years in the Art Dept. at SJSU, and has been offering creative and unique RAFT workshops for several years. Margaret More is a music teacher in the Cupertino Union School District. Rachel Vatannia is a substitute teacher for the Oak Grove School District. She is currently working on her MA in Education and Curriculum with an emphasis on educational equity. In addition, Rachel is a certified Zumba dance instructor. Zumba is a Latin American Dance Fitness Program. TARGET AUDIENCE: 3rd grade teachers and up; interested educators of all levels COST: $40 for members; $55 for non-members | Saturday, March 10, 2012 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| Drawing for Teachers Who Think They Can't: Besides who wants to draw straight lines? Come learn the basic skills that will have you sketching and thinking in pictures. You'll get new insights into pencil, charcoal, crayon, chalk, and using RAFT materials. The drawing "language" is fun, easy, and will help you communicate with your students to provide ways in which you can encourage them to use drawing to help them understand concepts in science, match, etc. INSTRUCTOR: Elle Arnot , MFA from the Art Institute of Chicago, is currently a high school art teacher in the Campbell School district. She has over 20 years experience teaching all grade levels in a variety of media.and has worked in industry in illustration, graphic design and marketing. Ms Arnot has also been a provider of outreach art and summer programs for grades k-8. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, March 10, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence: Does intelligent life exist elsewhere? Could Hollywood's ET be real? Join us for a lively lecture and workshop addressing the possibilities. Popular distinguished lecturer and radio personality, Dr. Seth Shostak, Senior Astronomer at the SETI Institute, will give us an update on the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) experiment that began over four decades ago. Hands-on STEM activities appropriate for classroom use will follow. A curriculum binder and materials will be distributed. No prior science background needed. INSTRUCTORS: Juanita Ryan is a retired K-5 teacher from the Berryessa Union School District in San Jose. Susan Sakaguchi is a former special education teacher. Her experience includes working with K-5th grade students level with a variety of learning disabilities. TARGET AUDIENCE: 2nd - 8th grade teachers; interested educators of all levels COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, March 10, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Google Advanced Search: This class focuses on the advanced tools available for Internet research. Learn how to search your own search history (both browser history and Google login), how to set up and use Custom Search Engines, when to set up Alerts for research topic monitoring, Google toolbar use, Advanced operators (filetype, site, intitle, inurl, allintext, define) the range of different Google Properties, etc. INSTRUCTOR: Daniel M Russell is a research scientist at Google where he works in the area of search quality, with a focus on understanding what makes Google users happy in their use of web search. He studies how people do their searches, trying to understand the most common traps and pathways to successful searches. Dan has been a researcher at IBM's Almaden Research Center, Apple's Advanced Technology Group and Xerox PARC. He received his PhD from the University of Rochester, and remembers a time when email addresses didn't end in .com. He enjoys long distance running, making music and word play, becoming disgruntled when he can't do all three in one day. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, March 15, 2012 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Exploring the Garden in Watercolors & Inks - FULL: Would learning how to draw and paint some native plant elements fit into your science or language arts curriculum? Students will work on drawing, using color and resist, brush strokes and bamboo pens to draw with to showcase garden implements along with vegetables and flowers. We will make some ink from plant materials for you to use in addition to the artistic elements. INSTRUCTOR: Sara Loesch-Frank was chosen as the Distinguished Fine Artist of Cupertino for 1997. She has taught calligraphy and watercolor in the Bay Area since 1977. She was recently awarded a full scholarship to the Academy of Art in San Francisco. TARGET AUDIENCE: 4th grade teachers and up; interested educators welcome COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, March 17, 2012 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| Science Mini-series: Taking Science Outside the Box: Learn how RAFT can help you with hands-on activities for teaching science to 5th - 8th grade students. This mini-series will be taught by three instructors, giving you variety of techniques and ideas to help science come alive in the classroom. RAFT kits will be explored as part of this workshop, helping you to "think outside the box." Your students will be coming back for more when you share what you have learned at this workshop. INSTRUCTORS: Laurie Pines Laurie worked in the computer industry for 24 years and then quit to follow her life-long dream of teaching. She taught high school mathematics for 13 years, during which time she was awarded an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educators Fellowship and worked for 1 year in Washington, DC in the House and the Senate on education legislation. Laurie is also a professional story teller and has performed at storytelling concerts and festivals in CA and DC. She has found that incorporating stories into the curriculum at any level to introduce and augment the lesson acts as a surprising potent magnet to students' desire to learn. Tom Gates is a former Aerospace Education Specialist, now with RAFT's Education Department. He traveled extensively in the Western U.S. giving teacher workshops, classroom visits, and assembly programs with NASA for over 30 years. Tom teaches many of RAFT's Outreach workshops. Eric Welker Eric Welker is a former high school science and math teacher with 13 years of classroom experience. As both a master teacher and instructional coach, Eric has supervised and mentored several student teachers. Eric holds a bachelor’s degree in organismal biology with an emphasis on science education and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in teacher leadership. He works full-time as an education specialist and teacher mentor here at RAFT and helps teachers incorporate RAFT activities into their curriculum as well as assist in answering epistemological and pedagogical questions. Eric organizes and conducts demonstrations at RAFT San Jose on Saturdays. TARGET AUDIENCE: 4th grade teachers and up; interested educators welcome COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, March 17, 2012 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Incorporating Technology in Your Lesson Plans: Learn about websites and free software that will enhance learning for students. Topics include webquests, education games and websites available to teachers. Get an overview of software applications that teachers can easily use and maintain; includes free web-building resources, blogs, google docs and more. If you wanted to know what was out there on the World Wide Web come to this class to download the latest information, what is out there on the World Wide Web, come to this class to download the latest information. INSTRUCTOR: Terri Sarappo is the technology instructor at St. Dunstan's School in Millbrae. In this role she works with students in Kindergarten through 8th grade, teaching them computer skills. The objective of this program is to expand on classroom learning and to incorporate hands-on projects using the computer for research and to create projects ranging from presentations, computer drawing, videos and podcasts. TARGET AUDIENCE: 3rd - 8th grade teachers COST: $20 for members; $35 for non-members | Saturday, March 17, 2012 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| There was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly: A childhood favorite, this poem will come alive for you as you create the larger-than-life props for your storytelling corner. Then, learn other cross-curricular activities for your students to do that will relate this poem to a variety of STREAM requirements. INSTRUCTOR: Debbie Long presently works at RAFT as the Green Room Manager. She taught for 30 years, most recently for ten years at a parent co-op nursery school where she developed an impressive array of ideas to engage young minds. TARGET AUDIENCE: Pre-School through 2nd grade teachers; interested educators welcome COST: $15 for members; $30 for non-members | Saturday, March 17, 2012 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM | RAFT San Jose (Green Room) | | |
| Early Education Special Needs Strategies Series (3/21 and 3/24): Join us for a multi-session workshop in discovering strategies for designing a learning environment that motivates children to participate. The workshop is divided into three sections that will address the overall learning environment, specific activities, and skill development. Time will be built into the workshop to shop at RAFT, including learning about activities that can be made from inexpensive materials. (Repeated at RAFT San Jose in May 2012) INSTRUCTORS: Gayle Mayekawa has over 30 years experience working in a variety of roles and programs: Teacher, Administrator Parent Educator, Home Visitor, Manager for an Early Start program, Special Education Lead for the state & Manager of a Head Start program. Currently, Gayle works for Wed Ed as a consultant providing coaching and designing training for teachers. She serves as a faculty member at Foothill Community College in the Child Development Department holding a B.A. in Child Development and an M.A. in Early Childhood Education as well as operating a consulting business. Lisa Shaanan is a senior pediatric occupational therapist with more than 20 years of experience working with children. Her primary expertise is in helping children with Autism Spectrum disorders, sensory processing difficulties, social-emotional challenges and assistive technology needs. Among other engagements, Lisa works as the California Preschool Instructional Network (CPIN) Special Education Lead for the 7 counties of the Bay Area, and is the Director of Occupational Therapy at Associated Learning and Language Specialists. Lisa is an experienced hands-on therapist, a program developer, a presenter, and a trainer. TARGET AUDIENCE: Beneficial to early education professionals, special educators, and therepeutic professionals who work with young children COST: $40 for members; $55 for non-members ADDITIONAL DATES: | Wednesday, March 21, 2012 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Google Search Pragmatics: Sharpening Your Search Skills: Google is offering a series of five workshops on its various Search capabilities. Details to follow.Sharpen your web searching skills by practicing in an open, supportive INSTRUCTOR: Daniel M Russell is a research scientist at Google where he works in the area of search quality, with a focus on understanding what makes Google users happy in their use of web search. He studies how people do their searches, trying to understand the most common traps and pathways to successful searches. Dan has been a researcher at IBM's Almaden Research Center, Apple's Advanced Technology Group and Xerox PARC. He received his PhD from the University of Rochester, and remembers a time when email addresses didn't end in .com. He enjoys long distance running, making music and word play, becoming disgruntled when he can't do all three in one day. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, March 22, 2012 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Soda Can Art - FULL!: (Wait List Only: Currently 1 on list)What can you do with an empty soda can besides drop it in the recycle container? This class will open your eyes to the world of soda can art, including jewelry and pieces to use on cards. Amazingly, the edges of the cut aluminum cans are not sharp so it is a relatively safe activity. Add some paint and beads, and you have opened up a whole new way of repurposing cans. INSTRUCTOR: Sharen Delaune-Rensen is a longtime RAFT member who teaches adult and community education classes. TARGET AUDIENCE: 5th grade teachers and above; interested leaders welcome COST: $20 for members; $35 for non-members | Saturday, March 24, 2012 8:30 AM - 12:30 AM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Joy of Pencils: There's more to pencils than grocer lists, stick figures, and golf scorecards. Come learn to use a variety of pencils - from grease to graphite - for drawing, embellishing, touching up photos, and more. learn how to "feel" which paper to use with which pencils. Pencils are still cheap, simple and accessible, even the fancy ones. That is part of the joy! INSTRUCTOR: Elle Arnot , MFA from the Art Institute of Chicago, is currently a high school art teacher in the Campbell School district. She has over 20 years experience teaching all grade levels in a variety of media.and has worked in industry in illustration, graphic design and marketing. Ms Arnot has also been a provider of outreach art and summer programs for grades k-8. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, March 24, 2012 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| Team Building: Games can promote learning in the classroom, as well as cooperative learning on the playground. This collection of games and mixers is designed to promote team building skills in the classroom and to augment existing teaching techniques. Variations of these games are appropriate for students of all ages. The instructor will have his books available for sale during the workshop. INSTRUCTOR: Steve Peck has been working in the camp industry for over 25 years, training counselors on better ways to connect with the campers. He has also presented a session on games at the American Camping Association Conference for the past 3 years. Recently, Steve completed his first book, entitled "101 Fun, Creative and Interactive Games for Kids." TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, March 24, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Google Sites: Google Sites is Google's free web page creator. Create a website to communicate important information to families or create a website where students can share their work with either a select group or with the world. Customize your page,and then, easily add information from other Google tools to your site. In this workshop, you'll become familiar with the different features of Google Sites, and have a chance to begin building a site of your own. INSTRUCTOR: Mary Fran Lynch is a third grade teacher at Alta Visa School in the Union School District where she enjoys integrating technology into as many lessons as she can. In addition to the workshops she has offered at RAFT, she has presented Google Docs at SVCUE, the Good Teaching Conference, and for staff development training. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, March 29, 2012 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Great Ideas for Creating Re-purposed Gifts: Help teach children how to make creative gifts for parents and caregivers with simple materials. Projects include coupon book, cut & paste stationary, paint chip tablet, fabric swatch notepad, and an origami picture frame. Most of the materials will be re-purposed and easily available from home or RAFT. INSTRUCTORS: Monica Lee has been a professional photographer for 30 years in San Francisco, and a life-long crafter. Monica teaches craft workshops all over the Bay Area including at FabMo in Mountain View, The Sunnyside Conservatory, and SCRAP in San Francisco. She specializes in using repurposed, recycled and found materials in her workshops. Monica is also the Artist in Residence at Ruth's Table in San Francisco, where she teaches art workshops to people of all ages. Dorothy Yuki is a retired design and production consultant to the fashion industry in the Bay Area. She is now able to do what she loves: arts and crafts, although she has always incorporated her love of design with her everyday life. Dorothy also ran a manufacturing company, and worked with her husband as a real estate developer locally, as well as in South America and Europe. She has taught workshops at FabMo, SCRAP, Ruth's Table, Friends of Calligraphy, and the Sierra Gorda Biosphere. TARGET AUDIENCE: 3rd grade teachers and up; interested educators of all levels COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, April 14, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Google Tech Web Search: Ever try to find something very specific and very technical? This class will help you discover strategies that work for searching out information in a particular topic area. We'll cover finding course notes and materials, illustrations, images, and parts for specific kinds of classes (e.g. science, math, technology). You'll learn how to find repositories, the use of domain-specific language, and terms to search out just what you need. INSTRUCTOR: Daniel M Russell is a research scientist at Google where he works in the area of search quality, with a focus on understanding what makes Google users happy in their use of web search. He studies how people do their searches, trying to understand the most common traps and pathways to successful searches. Dan has been a researcher at IBM's Almaden Research Center, Apple's Advanced Technology Group and Xerox PARC. He received his PhD from the University of Rochester, and remembers a time when email addresses didn't end in .com. He enjoys long distance running, making music and word play, becoming disgruntled when he can't do all three in one day. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, April 19, 2012 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Earth Science Basics: Give your students the building blocks for learning Earth Science, even when you have limited time and resources. Teach theory and concepts using hands-on projects that will make your students want to explore the subject more. Tectonics 101 was never so fun! INSTRUCTOR: Elizabeth Brooking is a teacher at Wilson Elementary. She is a long time RAFT member and an Innovation Fellow. TARGET AUDIENCE: 2nd - 6th grade teachers; interested leaders welcome COST: $20 for members; $35 for non-members | Saturday, April 21, 2012 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Fraction Tiles: This workshop will demonstrate how to use Fraction Tiles to teach a variety of hands-on fraction lessons. Learning with math manipulatives makes confusing, complicated concepts more understandable. INSTRUCTOR: Jeanne Lazzarini is RAFT’s Mathematics Activity Developer specializing in Mathematics Education and has a lifetime Single Subject CA Teaching Credential in Mathematics (K - adult). Her educational background includes a B.S. in Mathematics with honors from Santa Clara University and having attended the Masters in Teaching Mathematics graduate program at UC Davis, in addition to post-graduate studies in Computer Science from Santa Clara University. She has taught adult satellite tracking classes for the Dept of Defense, GATE Math classes for San Jose Unified, first grade (2 years) and Jr. High Math (7 years) at a Catholic school, and Summer Bellarmine High School Geometry. TARGET AUDIENCE: 2nd-8th grade teachers; interested educators of all levels COST: FREE to members; $15 for non-members | Saturday, April 21, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Science of Sound and Music: Study the science of sound as you create beautiful music in this workshop. Learn why certain materials work better for instruments than others, and why you get the sounds you do when you play an instrument. INSTRUCTOR: Modesto Tamez is on staff at the Exploratorium's Center for Teaching and Learning. TARGET AUDIENCE: 4th grade teachers and up; interested educators welcome COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, April 21, 2012 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| DeKooning Meets Picasso: Spend the day creating abstract, figurative paintings using painterly styles made famous by these giants of modern art. INSTRUCTOR: Claude Ferguson is a prize-winning artist and teacher who has been incorporating RAFT materials into his own work and that of his students for years. He holds an MFA from San Jose State and has served as the Assistant Curator of Art Education for the San Jose Museum of Art. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, April 21, 2012 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Google Presentation: Learn about the new Google Presentation, along with advanced features of Docs and Spreadsheets. INSTRUCTOR: Mary Fran Lynch is a third grade teacher at Alta Visa School in the Union School District where she enjoys integrating technology into as many lessons as she can. In addition to the workshops she has offered at RAFT, she has presented Google Docs at SVCUE, the Good Teaching Conference, and for staff development training. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: Free for members; $15 for non-members | Thursday, April 26, 2012 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Solar Energy Workshop: Gain hands-on experience using solar energy to produce heat, electricity, motion, and electric light. Construct a newly design collapsible solar cooker. Learn how a solar cell is constructed and how light is turned into electricity. Use a solar panel to power an entertaining solar "jigger bug" and the eye catching Sun Spinner. Participants will receive a set of solar cells, motors, LED's and more so that the activities can be recreated in their classrooms. INSTRUCTOR: Michael Pollock taught hands-on science to both mainstream and special needs elementary students for 25 years. He currently works at RAFT helping to produce educational kits. TARGET AUDIENCE: 6th grade teachers and above COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, April 28, 2012 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| Digital Documents:
Creating a Microsite with InDesign CS5 - CANCELED: Learn how to make a microsite that showcases your students' work over the Internet. The class is project-based with online video, embedded slideshows, and animated documents. If you are new to creating web content then this is the class for you! INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, April 28, 2012 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Early Ed Music & Movement : Kids love to move, so let's get them moving with the beat! During this one-day workshop, you will learn dancing and music with RAFT materials. Two instructors will lead you through dance steps, costume ideas, and musical instrument creation. Come join in and dance back to your classroom with lots of new ideas and projects. INSTRUCTORS: Geri Anderson is a retired pre-school director and teacher. She has a B.A. in Art, and loves to use hands-on activities to inspire children of all ages. When teaching a workshop, Geri's goal for the class is to educate, expand the students' curiosity and imagination, and most of all to have fun. Shalek Chappill has worked with children of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. She currently works for Santa Clara Unified School District in the autism program. Concurrently, Shalek is attending Santa Clara University to receive an M.A. and credential in Special Education. TARGET AUDIENCE: Pre-K through 3rd grade teachers; interested leaders of all age levels COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, April 28, 2012 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Art: As Important as ABC: Still searching for that creative bone in your body? This workshop will bring art to life, with an "outside the box? approach. Projects include recycled items, using tools, RAFT treasures, and more! You and your students will love the results! INSTRUCTOR: Jay Whitehall is currently a middle school art teacher, Art in Action trainer,bringing 18+ years of practical art experience with preschoolers through 8th graders with her. In addition, she works with several weekly youth groups, two shelters, two after-school day-care centers, and a community center, reaching over 200 kids per week as a result. Her teachings include both curriculum and creative license-driven art. TARGET AUDIENCE: K - 5th grade; Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, April 28, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Design Thinking - CANCELED: This class presents how to become a design thinker and how to implement design thinking in both your personal and professional life. In the new economy, it doesn't matter if you are a butcher, baker, or candlestick maker. We all must become design thinkers if we want to survive. This class is based on the outstanding work and insights of Daniel Pink, Garr Reynolds, and Marty Neumeier. (Repeat from 1/31/2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $10 for members; $25 for non-members | Tuesday, May 1, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Branding for Teachers - CANCELED: The times, they are a changing! The new economy is requiring everyone, no matter of profession, to market themselves as a professional with defined skills. In this class, you will learn how to find your place and function in this new world, and how to position and market yourself through the technique of branding. (Repeat from 2/1/2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $10 for members; $25 for non-members | Wednesday, May 2, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Tablet Computers in Education - CANCELED: The tablet computer is changing how curriculum and content is presented in the classroom. If you have not used or been introduced to this new tool, then take the time to attend this class so you will know what you have been missing. This new technology is just great! (Repeat from 2/2/2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $10 for members; $25 for non-members | Thursday, May 3, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Designing Your Website - CANCELED: This class combines basic web design principles with how to create and format your personal website, using the tools in Adobe CS5. The class uses website examples and hands-on projects for easy learning and understanding. (Repeat from 2/4/2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, May 5, 2012 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| K-2 Science Mini-series: Spend the day at RAFT, learning about hands-on kits, activities, and ideas that teach science concepts to young children. Three instructors will provide short workshops on science topics appropriate for Early Education classes, including Life Science, Physical Science, and Space Science. INSTRUCTORS: Laurie Pines Laurie worked in the computer industry for 24 years and then quit to follow her life-long dream of teaching. She taught high school mathematics for 13 years, during which time she was awarded an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educators Fellowship and worked for 1 year in Washington, DC in the House and the Senate on education legislation. Laurie is also a professional story teller and has performed at storytelling concerts and festivals in CA and DC. She has found that incorporating stories into the curriculum at any level to introduce and augment the lesson acts as a surprising potent magnet to students' desire to learn. Tom Gates is a former Aerospace Education Specialist, now with RAFT's Education Department. He traveled extensively in the Western U.S. giving teacher workshops, classroom visits, and assembly programs with NASA for over 30 years. Tom teaches many of RAFT's Outreach workshops. Denise Gurer is an instructor for TerraVert Inc. TARGET AUDIENCE: K-2nd grade teachers; interested leaders of all age levels COST: $35 for members; $50 for non-members | Saturday, May 5, 2012 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Working with English Language Students: The importance of "Talk, Talk, Talk." The research states that English learners must develop oral language skills in order to become English proficient. Investigate ways to produce "Structured talk" in your classroom. Gain knowledge of and practice strategies that will get your students talking and learning in your classroom. If you choose to attend, please email areas you'd like covered to jeanne@raft.net, so the information can be communicated to the presenter. INSTRUCTOR: Denise Giacomini taught for over twenty years, and has been a middle school principal and vice-principal as well as a district English learner coordinator. She has been the Coordinator for English Learner Services at SMCOE for three years. TARGET AUDIENCE: K - 5th grade; Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, May 5, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | RAFT Redwood City | | |
| Photoshop: Archiving & Photo Repair 2-day workshop (5/8 and 5/9) - CANCELED: Learn the best practices for scanning, formatting, color correcting, organizing, and repairing your family photos. Of all the treasures you possess, nothing is more valuable than old family photographs. If you are unsure how to preserve these golden treasures, then this is the class for you. INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $20 for members; $35 for non-members ADDITIONAL DATES: | Tuesday, May 8, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Photoshop Right-to-Right Project - CANCELED: Start by having your picture taken in this class. Then, using Photoshop, you will create an image of yourself as you would appear right-to-right and left-to-left. Continue the process by blending these images together to make a new composite of yourself. The results are interesting, fun, and informative. (Repeat from Fall 2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $10 for members; $25 for non-members | Thursday, May 10, 2012 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Middle School Science: Make science come alive for your middle school students, using RAFT materials, kits and idea sheets. Six kits will be demonstrated that cover life science, physical science, and chemistry. INSTRUCTOR: Eric Welker Eric Welker is a former high school science and math teacher with 13 years of classroom experience. As both a master teacher and instructional coach, Eric has supervised and mentored several student teachers. Eric holds a bachelor’s degree in organismal biology with an emphasis on science education and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in teacher leadership. He works full-time as an education specialist and teacher mentor here at RAFT and helps teachers incorporate RAFT activities into their curriculum as well as assist in answering epistemological and pedagogical questions. Eric organizes and conducts demonstrations at RAFT San Jose on Saturdays. TARGET AUDIENCE: 6th-8th grade teachers; interested leaders welcome COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, May 12, 2012 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Wild & Crazy Books: It's always fun for kids to make books that are going to look different than any other they have seen. We will also use some techniques like a wheel that spins, sliders and a hidden book in a book. INSTRUCTOR: CJ Grossman has an MFA from California College of the Arts and a BS in social Welfare from San Francisco State. CJ works with mixed media, specializing in book arts, and exhibits her work nationally. CJ has taught thousands of children and adults how to make books and has a passion for teaching educators how to make books with kids. She lives in Berkeley and is former editor of "Kids Making Books." TARGET AUDIENCE: 4th grade teachers and up; interested educators welcome COST: $25 for members; $40 for non-members | Saturday, May 12, 2012 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom B) | | |
| Photoshop 3D Series (2/7-2/9)- CANCELED: The most exciting addition to Photoshop in years is the ability to do 3D graphics with ease. This class covers both Photoshop 3D basics and 3D scene compositing. The class is based on hands-on projects for easy learning and understanding. (Repeat from February 2012) INSTRUCTOR: Steven Tatum is retired teacher who has taught computer classes at both RAFT and Foothill KCI for many years. TARGET AUDIENCE: Interested teachers and leaders of all age groups COST: $30 for members; $45 for non-members | Saturday, May 12, 2012 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | | |
| Early Education Special Needs Strategies Series (5/17, 5/18, and 5/19): Join us for a multi-session workshop in discovering strategies for designing a learning environment that motivates children to participate. The workshop is divided into three sections that will address the overall learning environment, specific activities, and skill development. Time will be built into the workshop to shop at RAFT, including learning about activities that can be made from inexpensive materials. INSTRUCTORS: Gayle Mayekawa has over 30 years experience working in a variety of roles and programs: Teacher, Administrator Parent Educator, Home Visitor, Manager for an Early Start program, Special Education Lead for the state & Manager of a Head Start program. Currently, Gayle works for Wed Ed as a consultant providing coaching and designing training for teachers. She serves as a faculty member at Foothill Community College in the Child Development Department holding a B.A. in Child Development and an M.A. in Early Childhood Education as well as operating a consulting business. Lisa Shaanan is a senior pediatric occupational therapist with more than 20 years of experience working with children. Her primary expertise is in helping children with Autism Spectrum disorders, sensory processing difficulties, social-emotional challenges and assistive technology needs. Among other engagements, Lisa works as the California Preschool Instructional Network (CPIN) Special Education Lead for the 7 counties of the Bay Area, and is the Director of Occupational Therapy at Associated Learning and Language Specialists. Lisa is an experienced hands-on therapist, a program developer, a presenter, and a trainer. TARGET AUDIENCE: Beneficial to early education professionals, special educators, and therepeutic professionals who work with young children COST: $40 for members; $55 for non-members ADDITIONAL DATES: | Thursday, May 17, 2012 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (Classroom A) | | |
| Homer: Computer-Based Energy Projects: Computer modeling need not be confined to the realm of engineers and programmers. HOMER is a modeling program that can be simplified so that middle school and high school students can use it. HOMER models renewable, hybrid or stand-alone systems to allow the user to construct the most economically feasible power system. The website also provides tutorials that could be used in the middle school classroom. For high school students, a project in which they model their own homes, powered by renewable energy resources would send a very important message about the feasibility of employing renewable power in small-scale, domestic situations. INSTRUCTOR: Claudia Medina is the co-founder and owner of TerraVert Inc. TARGET AUDIENCE: 6th - 8th grade teachers; interested leaders welcome COST: $20 for members; $35 for non-members | Saturday, May 19, 2012 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | RAFT San Jose (PC Lab) | |
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Fees are listed after each class description, all materials included. Non-members who meet our membership guidelines can participate for a slightly higher fee. Classes fill up fast, so participants are encouraged to register and pay in advance, or provide a deposit. Fees are nontransferable, and refunds are only granted if you cancel at least one week prior to class. All refunds are paid in RAFT dollars. If you fail to attend class or cancel after the one-week deadline, you will not be given a refund. Deposits are returned when the class is completed, or if you cancel one or more weeks in advance. You can register online or by phone at (408) 451-1421.
To cancel your enrollment in a class, email or call 408-451-1421.