After seeing several fellow GTAMTV attendee’s application, I have decided to post mine online as well.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSN1YiBKCcA]

Describe Your Role as a Professional Developer

My experience utilizing education technology has led me to deliver professional development at schools, my district, and state and national conferences. I spearheaded my school’s transition to Google Apps and trained the entire student body and faculty.  I’ve delivered sessions on Google Apps, technology and iPad best practices to enhance instruction and improve classroom management, and STEM related topics to educators at the regional and state ACTE conferences and National Science Foundation conference.

Describe Your Level of Proficiency with Google Apps

I am proficient with Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Sites, and administer the Google Apps for Education accounts for my school. My proficiency with Google Apps allows me to develop presentations and tutorials for faculty and students. I have taught my students to utilize Google Apps daily to plan, create, and collaborate.

Favorite Non-Google Technology Tools/Products That You Use on a Regular Basis

Evernote
iPad
Flipboard

What Inspired You to Apply to the Google Teacher Academy?

A student said to me, “I love Google. It makes everything easier and more efficient when working in group plus I get to take it everywhere.” I am inspired to apply to the GTA because of my students and a desire to become a better educator. My students are always craving new technology and using Google Apps is an essential part of my classroom as well as their other classes. GTA will improve my knowledge and provide resources that will help me prepare students to become college and career ready regardless of their post-high school aspirations. Attending the GTA is not only about increasing my knowledge and my students’ knowledge, but also allowing me to continue to provide relevant professional development for teachers and administrators. I find it rewarding to provide professional development for others so that I can make a difference beyond the confines my classroom.

Describe One of Your Favorite Teaching Moments. What Made it so Special for Your and Your Students?

Victor was one of my former students. He is autistic and tends to be shy in front of groups. During Victor’s first year, he participated in a small group presentation for a project they completed. When it came to Victor’s turn to introduce himself, he was too shy to say his name and stepped away from the group. Three years later, Victor and a team member were presenting their senior project. Victor participated in a 15 minute presentation in front of his peers, faculty, and parents. He was knowledgeable and articulate. At the end of his presentation, some of his peers gave him a standing ovation. I am proud that I created a safe learning environment, centered around project-based learning, technology, and group presentations, that gave Victor the skills he needed to present in front of a large group. Victor is currently enrolled in classes at a community college.

Describe an Obstacle you Encountered in Your Professional Life and How You Overcame It.

After my first year of teaching computer applications, my administrator talked to me about my schedule for the following year. He asked me if I was willing to teach 3D Animations. My background was in business, and I was hesitant to teach classes using software that I didn’t know. I spent that summer, and every summer since, pouring through textbooks and tutorials, attending professional development, and going to conferences to learn more. Despite improving each year, I realized there are always going to be students that know more than I do about technology, but I embrace the challenge. My style of teaching is constantly evolving. My classroom is no longer a teacher-dominated learning environment, but I act as a facilitator of learning. I believe that real learning occurs when students have authentic opportunities to absorb, experience, and create without the constraints of a “traditional” classroom environment.