I have a BS Ed in History/Education and am in the process of my Masters in IT (Information Technology). I am also a father and a person who respects the past as well as welcoming the future. The most important fact to know about me is that I am one who likes to adapt to challenges. I enjoy completing a task with the materials at hand, even if no one thought they could be used in that way.
I started as a History/Geography teacher with a 15 year old MAC in my room. That MAC had not been turned on in nearly a decade. I began using it to have the students create projects, learn to type, and run simulations. I taught computer skills, and with it, a writing course that resulted in 7-12 page papers. The students saw that they could do it. They actually enjoyed it. I made sure that they had multiple grades for the same project. For example, the History and English teachers would grade it for their content as well. This developed into a curriculum that integrates all subjects into a technology course. This course teaches the skills that businesses are clamoring for, while reinforcing the core subject area. I have been Technology Coordinator and Technology Director, responsible for curriculum development and training over 300 teachers. In the process, I started other programs, such as video editing and newspaper classes, that were all done with equipment at hand and created a wonderful way for students to express their potential. News shows were produced and video plays were written. I have Designed new computer labs and have been the one to choose, order, and maintain new labs. I have received large donations from businesses, like McDonnell Douglas and Boeing. I have worked with a school orchestra and the Phoenix Symphony to produce tickets, handbills, and advertising. I have created advertising materials for schools and fundraising pamphlets. I have seen students using their minds and being creative while using what they have available to them. One student that comes to mind was a D student, who raised his grades to a B in one year, and received a full scholarship to Collins Design School, based on the creative video work he completed in my classes.
If I sound like I am selling myself, I am. I am attempting to show you that your students are in capable hands. I am, however, not in the least trying to say that I know everything and am perfect. I believe that the moment we stop learning, we stop living.