I have now completed my Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and I want to express how thankful and blessed I am.
A week prior to beginning my courses through Lamar University’s On-line Master’s Degree Program, I had emergency gall bladder surgery. Little did I know that this would be the first of many unexpected complications that would come my way throughout my educational journey.
During the past eighteen months, my family has been challenged with many health concerns. Shortly after beginning the program, my husband, Mark, was diagnosed with life-threatening blood clotting and liver conditions spending months in hospitals and doctors’ offices battling numerous surgeries, scans, appointments, and the unknown. This was all very sudden and extremely unexpected. We moved in the middle of my courses, which looking back was the easiest of events. And, I have been in a wheelchair for six months after undergoing two ankle surgeries and tons of pain. Oh, and did I mention I have a 4-year old son? Whew! What a year and a half it has been!
I’ve been told that when you are embarking on a journey that is destined to end positively, you will face many obstacles and challenges along the way that will attempt to deter you. And as you fight through, they become confirmations that you are headed in the right direction. This has been my family’s experience since beginning my educational journey, but we have all managed to fight through staying focused on the prize!
God makes all things possible and my journey is a testimony that He continually provides exactly what is needed to reach your destination. I know He does not give more than we can handle, and although at times I felt as though my circumstances were almost too much to bear, He has been constantly, and in every way, present and unyielding. He has opened this educational door (and many others) for me and forever provides me and my family with the support and resources needed to stay on track. He is my Provider, my Guide, and has carried me in every aspect of my life.
I would never take credit for achieving this Master’s degree on my own. As we have faced one challenge after another, my family and friends have made it possible for me to never cease in my educational goals. There are several individuals I would like to acknowledge and thank from the bottom of my heart.
I would like to thank my parents, first and foremost, for providing endless love and support. This accomplishment would not have been possible without you both. My parents provided me with time to focus on my studies by babysitting Rylen at the drop of a hat and always with a smile. They have been there for me as a shoulder to lean on, vent to, and celebrate with. They never hesitate when needed, and are the most giving people I know. Additionally, they chauffeured me all over town hauling my wheelchair, too!
I would like to thank my husband, Mark, for believing that I could achieve this goal. Nineteen months ago, Mark accompanied me at a seminar to learn about Lamar’s Master’s Degree Program and what it would involve. Understanding my hesitations and the additional time needed that could pose a strain on our family and home life, he still said, “You can do it. If you want it, just go for it.” Since then, he has encouraged me to stick to my studies, listened to me gripe about my workload at times, and driven me to and from work every school day for six months. He has additionally taken on many of my “home duties” to give me the time necessary to focus on my classes and assignments. Along with his own health battles, he has shown me what it means to be a “fighter!”
I would also like to thank Mr. Black, my site supervisor. When I was notified that a site supervisor/mentor would be needed throughout the duration of the Master’s degree program, I immediately thought, “It has to be Mr. Black.” He is a strong role model and wise leader and I am thankful to know that his mentorship will not end with the diploma.
I would also like to thank my family and friends for encouraging me along the way in all I do! Your cheers and words of inspiration mean so much and I am fortunate to know that I can always count on you.
I believe that God gives us second chances in life. I did not take my undergrad education as seriously as I should have and embarrassment followed me as I would reflect upon my shortcomings. I feel as though I was given a second chance to redeem myself at demonstrating my abilities, knowledge, and skills. I’m pretty sure enrolling in an additional degree program or taking other lengthy courses is not in my immediate future, but I can rest assure that if/when I do, my “supporters” will help make it possible.
Thank you ALL and I love you with all my heart!
~ Julie
Monday, May 7, 2012
Where I am Now…and Where I am Going…
During this 2011-2012 school year, I teach collaborative sophomore English at Earl Warren High School. The certifications I hold are Generalist EC-4, Special Education EC-12, and English Language Arts and Reading 8-12. I have worked at Warren High School for the past six years and have loved every minute of it. My bachelor’s degree is in Communications concentrating in Public Relation from the University of Texas at San Antonio (May 2003) and I am completing my Master’s degree through Lamar University (May 2012).
During my internship, I learned far more than originally imagined. Although the internship was required as part of my degree plan, looking back I feel that this was one of the most successful ways to gain knowledge, skills, and experience as a school leader.
The most helpful campus-supervised activities I completed during my internship were the interviews I conducted with veteran teachers (Domain I, Competency 003, Log 2). Through these interviews, I learned about the changes seen during the past twenty years in my school district (Northside Independent School District). I also gained insight and perspective of how change occurs in districts, on campuses, throughout departments, and in the classroom. This activity opened my eyes to the past and as well as showed me the direction of our future. I am blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of our campus and a future school leader.
I originally chose to continue my education after this advice was given when discussing my future plans of becoming a High School Special Education Department and/or Campus Coordinator. It was explained that most individuals in this position have their Master’s degree. Lamar University has proven to be the “perfect fit” for me throughout these past eighteen months. And I feel confident that I now have what it takes to master my future goals and dreams!
During my internship, I learned far more than originally imagined. Although the internship was required as part of my degree plan, looking back I feel that this was one of the most successful ways to gain knowledge, skills, and experience as a school leader.
The most helpful campus-supervised activities I completed during my internship were the interviews I conducted with veteran teachers (Domain I, Competency 003, Log 2). Through these interviews, I learned about the changes seen during the past twenty years in my school district (Northside Independent School District). I also gained insight and perspective of how change occurs in districts, on campuses, throughout departments, and in the classroom. This activity opened my eyes to the past and as well as showed me the direction of our future. I am blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of our campus and a future school leader.
I originally chose to continue my education after this advice was given when discussing my future plans of becoming a High School Special Education Department and/or Campus Coordinator. It was explained that most individuals in this position have their Master’s degree. Lamar University has proven to be the “perfect fit” for me throughout these past eighteen months. And I feel confident that I now have what it takes to master my future goals and dreams!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Use of Web 2.0 Tools...Benefits and Suggestions
There are many benefits of Web 2.0 tools. When used properly, these tools can aid in communication throughout a campus.
The Personal Computer Use (CPU) is strong on my campus. This is primarily due to our campus culture and what is expected of teachers throughout our district. On our campus, every teacher has been issued a laptop computer. This has increased the CPU throughout the campus. With the expectation that every teacher has easy and quick access to his or her computer, staff development has increased to focus on use of the development.
I feel that a suggested professional development activity for all school campuses would be use of a Wiki blogs as a Web 2.0 tool for teachers to share valuable information with each other or as a teachers.
Currently, I am a collaborative teacher in several general education English classrooms as well as a Local Curriculum English teacher in two special education classrooms. To communicate effectively and quickly with my collaborative teacher, we have set up a Wiki website. Throughout this 2011-2012 school year, we have found the Wiki blog to be successful in sharing information. Other teachers in the English department an other departments additionally use Wiki blogs to communicate. A couple of years ago, teachers were required to attend a professional development teaching the benefits and usage of Wiki blogs as a Web 2.0 tool. Since then, it is widely available and often utilized.
Through Lamar University courses, I have become familiar with SlideShare and have put several on my blog site. After learning how to use this Web 2.0 tool, I will share this information with other teachers on my campus as they might be able to utilize this tool in their classrooms.
Another professional development activity that I feel would benefit our teachers and staff is of Web 2.0 student search engines useful in various classrooms and for a wide range of curriculum activities. For example, the English department uses several student-geared search engines that can be useful in Social Studies classes.
Additionally, many Math and Science teachers are aware of websites that students can use to develop their skills, but this information is not necessarily shared or known by everyone in the department.
Teachers would benefit from a staff development activity that shared a variety of student search engines and learning-geared websites as well as activities that can be incorporated into lesson plans.
Monday, April 16, 2012
The Value of Web Conferences...
The information provided through web conferences has been extremely beneficial to the success of Lamar’s courses. During web conferences, students communicate with Professors and other students. Web conferences are offered at various times so every student has the opportunity to participate and ask questions. Unlike a traditional university campus, Lamar University offers on-line Master’s degree programs through Academic Partnerships. The workload in an on-line program is no less than an in-class program although students lose the face-to-face communication with professors and students.
As my journey in obtaining my Master’s degree comes is quickly coming to a close, I value the web conferences to ensure I have “crossed all T’s” and “dotted all I’s” prior to graduation. Two of the most valuable web conferences I participated in were on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. and Monday, April 16, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. The conference only lasted about an hour; however, the information shared was critical to understanding the final requirements for my last course. The course requirements changed drastically during the first week of the last course and, if I had not attended this conference, I would have unaware of these changes and what is necessary for graduation. As a future school leader, preparation and timeliness is crucial. The web conferences keep me up-to-date on requirements and allow students a specific time and place to have questions reviewed, answered, and shared.
As stated throughout my blog, technology is rapidly advancing. Communicating through the “web” has opened many doors for students taking on-line courses. As I complete the remainder of my last course, I will continue to utilize web conferences by participating frequently.
Action Research Project...done...whew!
Hello Fellow Followers,
Thank you for coming along with me on my educational journey! In the past seventeen months, I have taken eleven on-line courses through Lamar University and successfully completed my Action Research Project (which, I must say, I pretty proud of!).
I am in my twelfth and final course and finally see a light at the end of the tunnel! My final blogs will be mostly consisted of reflections and information regarding my last course and I look forward to sharing this experience with you all.
Thank you for following my blog and "hangin' in there" with me. Almost done and feeling great!!!
Thank you for coming along with me on my educational journey! In the past seventeen months, I have taken eleven on-line courses through Lamar University and successfully completed my Action Research Project (which, I must say, I pretty proud of!).
I am in my twelfth and final course and finally see a light at the end of the tunnel! My final blogs will be mostly consisted of reflections and information regarding my last course and I look forward to sharing this experience with you all.
Thank you for following my blog and "hangin' in there" with me. Almost done and feeling great!!!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Texas Long Range Plan (2006-2020)
As our civilization changes and progresses, Texas has done a great job keeping up with society’s technological advancements. Texas has developed a Long Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020. In this plan, we have documented goals in four areas: Teaching and Learning; Educator Preparation and Development; Leadership, Administration and Instructional Support;and Infrastructure for Technology.
My action research project focuses on the use of technology (specifically personal communication devices) in the clasroom. My belief is that the more students use technology that is readily available to them, the more engaged and involved they are likely to be; thus, increasing their success.
As technology advances, campuses and districts must be prepared to teach educators how to use these technological resources and tools. I have included main ideas stated under the Teaching and Learning: Educator Preparation and Development piece of the Texas Long Range Plan, 2006-2020.
A DESCRIPTION OF THE AREA:
Visions for technological advancements are created at the local, state and national level. Educators must be properly and appropriately prepared for these technological progressions. Staff development opportunities to prepare and develop the technological skills of educators are necessary to meet the needs of the stated vision for improvement.
Teachers will be provided with a variety of professional development and distance learning opportunities to support lessons, technology integration, software applications, and assessment strategies.
Teachers will work collaboratively with others in effort to become familiar with and prepared to use technology for professional advancements as well as teaching students.
PROGRESS IN THE AREA:
Progresion is seen in the area of educator preparation and development. At the national and state level, leaders have notated previous progress seen among teachers’ technological knowledge and new goals have been created.
The methods of preparing and developing eductors’ knowledge and skills have progressed from face-to-face courses to distance learning, especially on-line learning. Teachers are required to stay current in their technological learning.
TRENDS IN EDUCATOR PREPARATION AND DEVELOPMENT:
The global market economy is advancing as a result of technological changes. To prepare our students for changes in society (including the growing businesses, higher requirements for post-secondary education, and the competitive job industry), we must change and grow with the advancements in our society.
Progress is occurring at the local, state national level. Trends show that educators are being prepared to use new technology in their classrooms through a variety of mediums. Distance learning, campus collaboration, and other instructional strategies are used at all levels. Trends indicate that the more an educator understands and values advancements in technology, the more likely they are to utilize these resources and tools in their classrooms.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT:
My recommendations for Educator Preparation and Development are to clearly assess and the needs of the campus educators and create a plan of action.
The first step is establishing the educators’ need(s).
The next step is to ensure all resources are allocated appropriately and according to the defined needs. For example, budgeting, staff, the timeline, and equipment must be aligned and in order to progress with the proposed plan.
Then, educators need to become familiar with and trained to use the technological advancements. This also includes examples of how to use the technological tools toward student success.
Finally, assessments need to be conducted to determine if additional preparation and development is necessary as well as the successes of previous trainings.
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