Teacher, Instructor, Mentor
Many people who read this blog know that I have been supporting educators for over 20 years. I have been honored to have known some of the best in many different schools. All of these teachers know when they called with a technology issue, I was there quickly to assist them and ensure them that they can do what they do best, teach! I know that in helping them, I have learned a lot about teaching and always felt that I missed my true calling, which is to share my passion for technology with others and pay it forward for the younger generation.
At the beginning of this School year 2020-2021, I was excited to accept a job as a technology teacher for one of our local Carrer and Technical Centers. I had many people ask me if I have ever taught before? I always responded with a definite yes! I have taught teachers summer courses on ways to use technology in their classrooms. I have also been teaching adults online using YouTube as my classroom. But I have never taught young students in a classroom, and I have always wanted to have a chance to share my knowledge and pass along my technology skills to a younger group of students.
When I was hired as a teacher, The Superintendent told me I would have to attend IUP College and be accepted into the VOED teaching program. College at the age of 57, am I nuts? Well, I talked it over with my wife and kids, and they all felt that I would be able to handle going to school and teaching at the same time. So I applied and was accepted into the college program, and I am now happy to say I completed my first semester with an A! Yes, my daily was right for believing in me and supporting me in becoming a teacher.
I had my second review yesterday, and the Administration told me that I am teaching at a proficient rate which is what I was hoping for. I was then asked if I made the right decision to teach? I answered with a definite YES! I also told them after graduation the day before that I have to find a way of leaving my seniors go to do great things. It is funny how you spend an entire year with students, and then one day they are gone. But I know that I gave these young men enough technology skills to seek out a college for more education or head out into the workforce, and I guess that is what all of us TEACHERS strive to accomplish!
