Catholic school teachers and principals from Brooklyn and Queens attended the annual diocesan technology expo for educators at The Mary Louis Academy, Jamaica Estates, Oct. 24.

The aim for the event is to educate teachers on how to better utilize the tools of the 21st century in the teaching and learning process. Equipped with the latest knowledge, teachers are able to educate the students in their classrooms with new tools and insights.

Around 300 teachers from diocesan elementary schools and academies participated in workshops and learned about the latest tech trends for the classroom. Above, teachers take part in a session on the integration of SMARTBoard technology in the classroom.

At left, Senior Deputy Superintendent of Catholic Schools Anthony Biscione tries out new interactive personal computers for the classroom.

Janet Peters, technology director at St. Francis of Assisi School, Astoria, and member of the Diocesan Tech Committee, looks at a 3D printer, below. This type of technology exposes students to real-world projects, and it is anticipated that 3D printing will soon be the standard for everything from basic home projects to major science research experiments.

“It is important to remember that technology is not an isolated element in education. It works hand in hand with all subjects,” said Peters. “Give us the tools and we can fly.”

(Photos by Rita Piro)