Thursday, July 16, 2015

Let's Make a Change


These last two weeks have been a whirlwind of learning.  Learning that is fast paced, interactive, engaging and fun!  I am collaborating with incredible educators, who are as enthusiastic about change as I am.  I am learning from a leader who models the “7 Habits of a highly effective tech-leading Principal.”  Glenn creates an atmosphere that inspires innovation and fosters collaboration.  He is open to new ideas, is a connected learner and introduces us to a wealth of resources while challenging us to take risks.  He also encourages us to have a technological vision.  I want to be like him.  I want to be a digital principal.

To take my school into the 21st century, I have to use the same types of technology that are being used in the community by our very own students.  “Technology can more easily be implemented in schools where the Principal is a technology leader and models its use” (Demski).  Modeling the use of tech tools will demonstrate to staff the power of social media, such as Facebook, Twitter and Blogging, in the classroom to promote engagement, independence and the want to learn.  To motivate teachers to implement technology into their repertoire of lesson, they need to be given opportunities to interact with the tech tools themselves.

There are several things that I need to do in order to ensure the success of staff.    The first step is to make sure that the school network can support the large number of tech devices running at one time and that social media sites are not blocked for use.  The next, most important, step, is to provide staff with professional development opportunities to acquire the skills needed to be proficient at using tech tools.  If given the appropriate training and the time to learn, teachers can become digital experts. (NETS-A 3a, b, c)

I want to be a leader who encourages my staff to share ideas, try new things and take risks.  (NETS-A 3d)  I want us to work together to change the climate and culture of learning at our school.  What is your plan to encourage that change?

8 comments:

  1. I'm honored to be with you on this learning journey! You are a remarkable leader, I can see why Alicia is so excited for you to begin this experience!

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    1. Thank you, so much! You are an awesome teacher!

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  2. Great quote, "“Technology can more easily be implemented in schools where the Principal is a technology leader and models its use” (Demski). It all starts with us as digital leaders and this class has provided a solid foundation of our PLN. Agree with you , Glenn has model the process for us. Now we just need to get our own selfie stick tool!!

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  3. As one of your readers, blogging comes so natural to you. No longer technically challenged either, right? :)

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  4. I concur completely with how you describe what we have experienced these past 2 weeks. Fantastic post.

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    1. Thank you Nick. That means a lot coming from someone who is a fantastic writer.

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