Team Managers are starting to get a jump on preparing for not only the official race, which starts March 6 when the Iditarod kicks off, but also for being able to offer students extra reading-incentive time during the Training Period, which starts as early as Feb. 1.
Based on feedback from the 2009 Teams, the distinct Training Period is new for the 2010 Race. Basically, managers wanted to encourage a longer reading period while giving them the opportunity to get familiar with the Idita-Read tools for inputting Reading Mileage Logs and Book Reviews. The Training Period allows students to practice these skills, before the pressure of the race hits. Teams also wanted to start the "real" race the same day as the Iditarod, so we've listened and have made that happen for the 2010 event.
Team Managers getting started right away, well in advance of when the Training Period begins, also benefit in that they can prepare Idita-Read materials and develop related activities at their convenience. See our Race Kit for Trail Tools, such as the Idita-Read Bookmarks (PDF) and Reading Log Mileage Worksheet (PDF). The Race Kit also includes Activity Ideas and Supplemental Learning Links that offer some very cool, student-friendly, third-party educational websites you can use to explore your choice of related topics.
Plus, managers can easily contact the Idita-Read Support Team with any questions simply using the integrated Feedback form, available when they are logged into the online system. In fact, I am usually the one who responds to these questions asked through the Feedback form, via direct email, or by phone — we believe in personable service and quick support!
Idita-Read also supports Team Managers by providing them with a helpful and easy-to-navigate Base Camp — see the screenshot sample posted at the right. This is where Team Managers go when they first Check In. Event Notices, Team Rosters, Help tips, and direct links to the Checkpoint information pages make managing your Idita-Read teams easy, with help from YOUR support team just a click away.
We have been so glad to see 2009 Team Managers returning for the 2010 Race — thanks for joining us again and we hope you enjoy the new and improved features!
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