What is an ITC?
Instructional Technology Coaches in Prince William County are more than a resource or bank of ideas on how to use technology in the classroom. ITCs are visionary leaders that help teachers navigate the educational fabric by means of technology. We provide instructional leadership; demonstrate knowledge and application of technology; work to improve the understanding of technology for users; train, develop, and recognize classroom leaders in technology; collaborate and plan with teachers to provide enriching and engaging content; and troubleshoot any device that is not functioning properly.
How do I fit in to the PWCS ITC Vision?
Technology is updating faster than anyone can keep up with. Even as a cutting-edge visionary with technology, I find myself struggling to learn the latest and greatest software, apps, or tools. However, I pride myself in giving myself a chance to find the resources and guides needed to allow for a proper use of that tool. And the most rewarding part for me is when I get to share that knowledge with others. I love offering guidance, suggestions, tips, and tricks to others when they are struggling just as I was. My positive attitude towards helping others is received warmly and I like to think that my uplifting spirit will give me the chance to brighten someone's day while working through problems.
What is my ITC Vision?
Helping others accomplish their goals has always been fulfilling for me. I enjoy helping other navigate through difficult assignments and incorporating new ideas, thought processes, and alternative viewpoints. The use of technology in the classroom is still a foreign concept for some teachers and I find great purpose when I am able to show those teachers how technology can make their jobs easier, more fulfilling, more connected to the students they are teaching, and provide a more meaningful, deep, and engaging lesson plan.
I am never going to force a teacher to use technology that they are unfamiliar with or completely against using. My approachable personality, patience, and methodical approach to helping others will hopefully persuade that teacher to become interested and curious about technology and the various uses that could assist their teaching styles. I approach new situations and unfamiliar territory with a smile and a positive attitude and by doing so, I create a culture and climate that encourages a healthy vulnerability that promotes the use of non-traditional and unfamiliar processes, including the adoption of technology in the classroom.
As Prince William County Public Schools recover from the Covid-19 educational crisis, and introduces and adopts the Superintendent's Strategic Plan, I foresee myself working with many teachers who are struggling to get back into their own educational groove during the changes. My primary focus will be to keep teachers satisfied and positive, provide choices to problems, and focus on incorporating county-wide technology to keep staff up-to-date and proficient if they decide to transfer to other schools in the District.
My focus with this portfolio is to outline and highlight my experiences and approaches to coaching others with technology. I welcome you to my site and hope you take the time to visit all of the sections that align with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards for coaches. You can find a new page under the top pull-down menu titled 'ISTE Standards', or click on a page below to start learning more!