Bill Gates was another featured Keynote Speaker at the ECS (Education Commission of the States) national forum on education policy in Atlanta, held July 9-11.

Meeting the gazillionaire computer titan was also kind of a cool way to spend an afternoon. Like Justice O’Connor, he also addressed the whole crowd before requesting to meet with ToYs in a private session later in the day. Yeah, I think we can accommodate you, Mr. Gates.

Thankfully, Gates made some very teacher-wise comments, particularly about teacher evaluation. He forcefully cautioned those in the room of the mindset to base teacher evaluation solely on test scores. Additionally, he talked about CCSS and other current educational issues and seemed to have quite a bit of information. I took notes on my Macbook air as Gates spoke. Feel free to enjoy the irony.

In the small session with ToYs, Gates took many notes as each of us described evaluation tools being used in our states and needs for professional development. He made some comments on technology use in the class room and educational areas in which his foundation is looking to invest in the next five years. Lets hope some of what we said continues to shape his understanding and philanthropy.

Next week, International Space Camp. I leave on Friday. I still need to figure out a RI-themed costume. Maybe a beach ball?