School is Out for the Summer, Tech is In

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - June 25, 2015) - Microsoft introduces interactive technology summits for K-12 educators, beginning on July 7^th- 8^th at The Country Club in Woodbridge, ON. The first of six national summits, Camp 21 is a two-day professional development event.

"At Microsoft, we are committed to providing educators the access to technology tools and skills to improve, help and build amazing futures for our students" said Marc Seaman, VP of Education with Microsoft Canada. "This is just one example of Microsoft's commitment to empowering our youth and educators to achieve more."

Technology is a game changer in the classroom, with today's students growing up being able to master using the latest devices as if it's second nature. A report by People for Education, indicate that "79% of Ontario elementary schools report students start using computers in kindergarten." With the rapid growth of technology in the classroom, teachers are seeking interactive professional development opportunities that support this evolution.

Microsoft's Camp 21 will deliver hands-on workshops to educators that are designed to increase knowledge and integration of technology tools to empower 21^st century learning.

"As all educators know, we are life-long learners and that means professional development is always important to us," said Kaylyn Dorland, a teacher from Queen of Heaven Elementary School and a Microsoft's Innovative Educator Expert. "I'm excited to be part of Camp 21. It's a fun opportunity to not only further develop my 21st century classroom skills, but to also share and be a part of the technology training and learning with the new Microsoft Sway."

Tech novice or expert, Camp 21 is for teachers who are passionate about empowering learning through technology. Sessions will cover Minecraft, OneNote, O365 Video, Sway and more. Upon completion of the summit, attendees will earn their Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) badge and receive a Camp 21 completion certificate. Future summits will be held in Montreal and Vancouver throughout the upcoming year.

More about Microsoft Educator Network

Microsoft Educator Network is a global support network for educators dedicated to improving student learning worldwide. Educator Network offers professional development training, community discussions, free software, step by step tutorials and tested learning plans. It's free to educators and schools all around the world.

For more details or to register for the event visit www.microsoft.ca/camp21.

Media: REGISTER BY 5 PM EST, MONDAY, JULY 6