iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

I kicked off the week in Brandon discussing AI I was joined by staff from MESC and Turtle Mountain SD as we explored how AI works, potential applications in classrooms & ethical considerations Thank you to everyone who spent their day with me & for MESC for being such gracious hosts! #MERLIN_MB

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Registration for #MTSPDDay is in full swing! In honour of #ThrowbackThursday heres Jason and I during last year's event set up for @@manacemb.bsky.social 2025 event Make sure you head over to ManACE's page to get all the details and secure your registration via Eventbrite. See you in October!

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 19/09/2026

I spent my Friday in Winnipeg discussing accessibility within the #MicrosoftEDU suite. I was joined by educators, admin, and clinicians from 7 school divisions as we explored Microsoft's core accessibility features 📸 Photo Credit: @carriewoodwpg #MERLIN_MB

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

Today was our first @_maetl meeting of the year. For over 30 years they have been bringing together ed tech leaders, educators and IT professionals, to advance innovative teaching practices integrating technology. Make sure to learn more at www.maetl.mb.ca

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

October plays host to Cybersecurity Awareness Month and what better way to kick that off than with a PD session! Join me virtually via Teams on October 7th Registration for this specific event will close on Wednesday, September 23rd so get your spot ASAP #MERLIN_MB

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 17/09/2026

Looking for ways to bring more interactive STEM learning into your classroom this school year? MERLIN and Gizmos are hosting three webinars for teachers to explore the platform, see what it can do, and learn more about how Gizmos can support STEM learning. #MERLIN_MB #ThirdPartyThursday

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

ManACE @manacemb.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Registration for our MTS PD Day event is now LIVE!!! Please visit www.eventbrite.ca/e/2026-manac... for more information and to register for this fantastic day of learning and networking.

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

As part of my ongoing commitment to digital citizenship, student privacy, and responsible technology use, I will be making changes to my professional social media channels. Moving forward, I will no longer post identifiable images of students on public platforms.

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 09/09/2026

We’re kicking off the school year from Thompson! Kirsten, Kyla, and Mike are on-site with the team at Mystery Lake School District for their first PD day of the school year. Thanks to the Mystery Lake team for having us. We’re looking forward to a great year ahead! #MERLIN_MB #WhoWeAreWednesday

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

When you've presented at the same events, worked together on countless projects, & served on committees together but only take photos together once a decade! Matteo and I will be joining Michael Holden for a panel discussion on AI right away before we welcome staff into a day of breakout sessions.

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

The summer office location has officially closed, which means a perfect time to do a deep clean while setting up back at home! #BackToSchool

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

September isn't just back-to-school for kids; educational staff across the province are meeting, learning, and strengthening their practice. I am very much looking forward to each visit, each conversation, and learning alongside you! #FutureFriday #MERLIN_MB

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

No more back-to-school classroom tours but I do have a variety of office spaces! Whether I am remote, in the office, or visiting schools, it's always an adventure with @merlin.mb.ca

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

13 years old and I believe that many of the components I wrote about in 2013 still apply.... The topic of social media use in the field of eudcation was my most discussed content pre-Covid; perhaps we need to bring this up again. fishbowlteaching.com/2013/03/teac...

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

Maggie Macintosh @maggiemacintosh.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

NEW: A Winnipeg teacher has been reprimanded for accidentally clicking ‘like’ on a student’s year-old social media post during a late-night scroll #mbed #wfp www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews...

winnipegfreepress.com

Winnipeg teacher disciplined for ‘liking’ student’s post

A Winnipeg teacher has been reprimanded for accidentally clicking ‘like’ on a student’s year-old social media post during a late-night scroll.

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

As a new school year begins, it can be tempting to try and be "perfect". The internet can be a fantastic place where we share resources and ideas, but it can also lead to the perception that we need to have every lesson planned, every resource organized, and every system running flawlessly. 🧵

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Its the LAST week of the @merlin.mb.ca challenge. Have you participated this summer? #MERLIN_MB

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

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. 🧵

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

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

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 12/08/2026

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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

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 🧵

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

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.

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

🚲 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!

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 08/07/2026

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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

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.

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 06/07/2026

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

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 02/07/2026

📅 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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

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. 🧵

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

Get your proposal in before end of day tomorrow!

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

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!

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

ManACE @manacemb.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

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!

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 23/06/2026

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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

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... 🧵

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

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?

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

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..🧵

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

Please check out Clever if you are a teacher looking for options that not only increase security but also digital accessibility!

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

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!

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

🌈 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... 🧵

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 01/06/2026

📅 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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

Its a big day today! Wearing my @merlin.mb.ca merch for good luck. Stay tuned for updates in a few weeks 🤞🏼

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 25/05/2026

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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

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

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Reposted by Kirsten Thompson

MERLIN @merlin.mb.ca · 11/05/2026

📅 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

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Kirsten Thompson @thompsonclassroom.bsky.social · 05/05/2026

I've somehow passed the 1 year mark since I joined the @merlin.mb.ca family & got thrown right into the whirlwind of RTW Every day is a new adventure & this first year has flown by! Forever thankful to have been given this opportunity & to the entire MERLIN team for welcoming me Bring on year 2

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