Thing 2

As an educator and principal of a middle school, I believe my participation in 23 Things is critical to be a leader of innovative learning and teaching. Educators struggle daily to find ways to engage students. It is as if we are speaking in a foreign language to our students when we are not using the tools they have become experts in on a daily basis. So often you hear the word "multi-tasking" and many find this a challenging task but for today's students this is the way of their world. When we don't find ways to engage them in familiar territory they simply tune us out. Today's educators have the distinction of being the immigrants but tomorrow's educators will from the native world. What we need to recognize is that we should not stifle the visions of the up and coming educators but take their "know-how" and incorporate it into our schools where the students and teachers will speak the same language.

Thing 1

I continue to be amazed at the fact that we are all living in the 21st century but our day to day experiences can vary so greatly. I just traveled with 150 8th grade students to Washington D.C. and we were contemplating what would George Washington or Abraham Lincoln say about the 21st century. What do you think would amaze them the most about the world since they left? The word technology came up over and over again by students. Our fast paced communication and ability to find answers to questions in the matter of seconds would probably leave them dumbfounded. Even in my short 14 years as an educator it is amazing to reflect on the tools we had "back then" and what our students are offered now. A school with only 4 computers for EVERYONE and now we have over 200 in that same building. I have seen the video from Thing 1 several times and each time I am inspired to learn more! The Immigrants must join the Natives if we are to continue to service the world of education.

Welcome!

Welcome! Keeping up with the 21st century can be a daunting task but it is necessary to jump in with both feet in order to keep up with the natives! With the ever changing ways of the world, we must find a way to embrace change and get on board or get out of the way!