Explore these resources to better understand my Ed Tech EDventure:
In addition to my Tech Tool Box, Ed Tech Blog, and About Me, there are various pages I encourage you to explore to learn about my passion for and commitment to being a forever learner (and role model!) when it comes to innovation and educational technology. I would like to continue to share more about my interest in becoming an InnEdCO Ambassador.
"First, why InnEdCO?"
Well, as a singleton (the only personal in my position at my school), I felt like I wasn't growing or challenging myself to better support my students and staff. I connected with some veteran Tech Coordinators and teachers who introduced my to InnEdCO in 2022. I am so grateful for that PLC meeting because I was lucky enough to attend the InnEdCO conference in 2023. I jumped into every opportunity and connected with the many like-minded educators who made me feel supported, even as a singleton. Not only did I learn so much from the brilliant presenters, but I created genuine friendships with educators across the COUNTRY, too. Of course I had to learn more about getting involved with this incredible organization to share my passion and drive for ed tech and innovation with educators around the state.
"Why do you hope to represent InnEdCO as an ambassador?"
I hope to become an ambassador to put a title to my advocacy for ed tech and innovation in not only tech classrooms, but all classes (core, performing arts and electives, too!). I enjoy reminding veteran teachers how "innovation" and "ed tech" practices aren't just for tech classes but apply to their classroom experiences, too. I hope to continue inspiring, supporting and sharing the awesome work teachers are doing to enhance the classroom experience for their students.
"Why do you think innovative practices in education matters?
What draws you to this work?"
We can all think of that one class, teacher, or experience that was dangerously
boring. My high school economics class was that for me. Looking back, we could've
explored the inside of a bank via a 3D tour, simulated the stock market on Wall
Street, plugged in numbers to attend college or go into a trade and then
compared and contrasted! Instead, it was textbook-lecture style instruction. I can
remember very little from my economics class because of the missing element
of innovation. I promised myself, already wanting to be a teacher since 2nd grade
, that my classroom would not be forgotten. Whether the instruction, or the way
the culture of the classroom made the student feel, I am still adamant about how
innovation in both instruction and culture is critical to the educational experience.
"What unique strength do you look forward to bringing to the InnEdCO community?"
To anyone who meets me, it is no secret I am ambitious, driven and passionate about my work in ed tech. I seek opportunities and feedback as I love learning. Mentors and colleagues are some of my favorite people to look up to as I am still early in my career. Although I can share a plethora of strengths, I look forward to taking risks and problem-solving the InnEdCO community.
My first year of teaching was the most stressful, but probably the most fun. Not to say I don't have fun anymore, but when I didn't have the funds to Pinterest-my-classroom, I became the pilot of my innovation journey. I was returning from a student teaching position in New Zealand and still have a bad case of the travel bug. Boom, my classroom theme! I created new "boarding passes" when we had assigned seats, classroom jobs reflecting positions in aviation and airports (including air marshals!), and transformed my classroom culture with just a few travel-themed, fun and innovative ideas. The best part, though, was when one of my 4th grader came to me after Spring Break sharing how she went on a plane for her first time and felt confident and not scared because of the practice she had in her class. That's when I learned, first-hand, the power of Innovation.
I then explored my passion for technology teaching middle school Gaming & Robotics (coolest job, ever!). My mentors, a college professor and the school's technology coordinator, challenged me to seek out opportunities such as leading robotics teams, sponsoring Girls Who Code, attending conferences, leading professional development, and taking advantages of the possibilities that come my way. I humbly accepted the position as Technology Coordinator when my mentor retired, and continue to live on her legacy supporting and challenging the staff and students at our middle school, but also throughout the district. However, why stop at the district level?
InnEdCO 2023 - 2024
Ambassador Application
Innovate.
Invite.
Inspire.
