I am always searching for rigorous professional learning experiences that will help me develop my craft; I love learning!

Credentials

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I received my Google Level 1 Certification in 2017, and am currently working towards my Level 2 Certification.

Current Professional Learning

I am currently enrolled in DePaul University's College of Education, pursuing my Masters in Educational Leadership (M.Ed). ​I do not necessarily plan on leaving the classroom, however! Instead, I am looking to develop my skills as a teacher leader.
Expected Graduation: June 2018
I recently completed EdTech Team's online Teacher Leadership Certification coursework. This program is a train-the-trainer model, and provides training is six different areas relating to 21st century learning. I'm looking forward to sharing what I've learned!

Past Professional Learning
The National Academy for Advanced Teacher Education (NAATE) was one of the most challenging and rewarding professional development experiences of my career. NAATE instructors use the case study method in order to engage teachers in rich and rigorous conversations around issues in two domains: Teaching & Learning, and Supporting & Leading.

It was in my 10-day summer course, and two subsequent 3-day courses that I learned, for the first time, about effectively leading adults. I was privileged to be a part of NAATE's first cohort, and to have worked with them from 2010-2012. I only wish that I had been able to complete their program; unfortunately, due to my school's budget concerns, I was unable to do so. But, I still made it onto their video (left, @ the 4-minute mark)!
In the 2004-2005 school year, I decided to pursue my National Board Certification. But I knew I would need help. So I turned to the Chicago Teachers' Union Quest Center, and applied for their Nurturing Teacher Leadership program. We had classes once a week in the evenings, and one full Saturday each month for the entire school year. In that time, I learned pedagogy relating to all four domains of Charlotte Danielson's Framework for Teaching.

In my small cohort, I was exposed for the first time to cognitive coaching. It was a profound experience that improved my practice dramatically. NTL developed my ability to reflect on my practice critically and objectively, an ability for which I'm sure my students would thank them.