A Tribute to My Supporters...

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

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!