Back-to-school season has me thinking back to how exciting it was to set up my classroom space and welcome new students. This feels like a lifetime ago... I'm not old am I?? #ThrowbackThursday #Back2School
Kirsten Thompson
@thompsonclassroom.bsky.social
👩🏼💻 Ed Tech Enthusiast 👩🏼🎓 Lifelong Learner 💫 #MicrosoftEdu Trainer 💫 Google Educator Level 1 🚨 Professional account, personally managed - Learn more at @misslwbt.bsky.social
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
What if your personality had a font? We asked AI to match each member of the MERLIN team with a font based on their overall vibe. Take a look through and let us know: Which one do you think was the best match? #MERLIN_MB #WhoWeAreWednesday
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!
Behind every seamless system is a team keeping everything in sync We’re currently hiring: Senior Consultant, Network Technologies If you’re ready to contribute to meaningful, MB-wide impact, we’d love to hear from you Apply here jobsearch.gov.mb.ca/advancedResu... #MERLIN_MB #WhoWeAreWednesday
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.
It is Week 1 of MERLIN's 8 Week Cybersecurity Challenge - Firewall Configuration Review Firewall rules often accumulate over time as systems, services, and staffing evolve; it is time to review! Want assistance with the challenge? Reach out at info@merlin.mb.ca #MERLIN_MB #MERLINMonday
📅 New Month, New Focus! This July, we’re exploring how MERLIN brings tools, platforms, and services together into one seamless experience. From compatibility to coordination, we’re sharing what it takes to keep systems in sync. 🔗 Don’t miss a post: connect with us everywhere we are! #MERLIN_MB
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!
Our call for presenters runs until June 30, 2026, so don't delay! Head over to forms.gle/woJiqpznt9t5... to learn more and to sign up for this exciting event!
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... 🧵
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..🧵
Please check out Clever if you are a teacher looking for options that not only increase security but also digital accessibility!
Thank you to Aerin Bowers and Nicholas Klima from Clever for delivering an engaging session on classroom-friendly cybersecurity. Nicholas joined us virtually last Thursday for our Partner Program Meeting 🧵
I'm so excited about all the great things on our schedule! I'm leading a variety of our virtual and in-person options. Register before you head out for the summer so you have something off your list when you get back in the fall!
When people think about technology, they often think about the tools What they don't always see is the learning that happens behind the scenes As part of our Quiet Work, Big Impact theme, we're highlighting one of the ways MERLIN helps support MB's education community: professional learning 🧵
🌈 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... 🧵
📅 New Month, New Focus! June is dedicated to the behind‑the‑scenes efforts that keep ed tech strong. We’re spotlighting the maintenance, updates, and improvements that quietly prepare systems for a successful year ahead. 🔗 Don’t miss a post: connect with us everywhere we are! #MERLIN_MB
Its a big day today! Wearing my @merlin.mb.ca merch for good luck. Stay tuned for updates in a few weeks 🤞🏼
The new MERLIN Training Calendar is here and there’s something for every role and experience level. 📚 Explore upcoming sessions and professional learning opportunities: www.merlin.mb.ca/training #MERLIN_MB #MERLINMonday
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
📅 Save the Date: June 4th, Partner Program Meeting These meetings bring together partners and stakeholders to share updates, discuss opportunities, and support ongoing collaboration across MBs ed tech community More details to come, so keep your eyes on your inbox! #MERLIN_MB #MERLINMonday