So why now, why Graduate School, why a Masters in Instructional Design and Technology program? I feel like it is time for me to up-the-ante on my journey for knowledge and pursuit of excellence in my field; to push and challenge myself to learn and apply that much more in my position as an educator, PreK-12 Technology Professional Development Coordinator, as well as in my roles as an Apple Distinguished Educator, Adobe Certified Education Expert Trainer, and Google Certified Innovator and Trainer. It has always been important for me to keep on top of emerging technologies and their impact on teaching and learning. I want to improve my habits, learn up-to-date strategies for learner engagement, instructional design and evaluation, corporate training and motivational development, visual and verbal communication in instructional design, a variety of applications for digital media in instructional design, and find more fulfillment in the experiences of my job. I look forward to opportunities to collaborate and learn with colleagues in my field. I hope to discover new ways to provide more personalized professional development for those in my current school as we continue our One-to-World approach with a mobile device for every student and educator grades K-12. I want to find new ways to improve my own practice, as I continue my role as a mentor to students using a design/engineering studio approach in our school’s 5,000 square foot Startup Incubator, where my team and I continuously develop our curriculum in coding, making, and media creation. I believe this program will help me achieve to my goals and become a visionary leader. Most importantly, I need to practice and model what I want to help others pursue... to engage in continuous learning at a higher level and depth.
Five years from now, I would love to still be impacting the world of education, working with students and teachers. I would like to travel around the world to share my knowledge and experiences, working more on a consultancy basis. I want to continue to be seen as an innovator and a valuable member of the team at work. I am a great collaborator, and love working with a talented team I am a part of. I embrace how we all come to the table with great ideas and make them a reality. I have received high praise from all I work with, and feel encouraged to go the distance with initiatives and projects I think up and/or get involved in. I have a great balance between home family life and work - having more time and ability for us all to travel together. I can see myself mentoring EdTech Coaches, STEAM Educators, and Makers. I am comfortable providing workshops around the world with audiences at conferences or via consultancy efforts. I will continue to learn always, auditing classes with Full Sail, taking my education to higher heights. I also have elements of fun along the way in whatever I do, helping to bring and spread the enjoyment and love of life and learning wherever I go.
