Giving Thanks

A week ago Saturday I attended the Advanced Placement Conference at Cherry Creek High School. Imagine my surprise when our presenter used overheads during the AP Language workshop. Squinting my eyes at fuzzy graphics and faded print, I had forgotten how bland overhead materials appear compared to professional-looking PowerPoints. But our presenter was not to blame. The classroom was not equipped with an overhead projector, and several teachers in my session described insufficient access to technology in their schools as well. Some schools only have one or two computer labs for the entire building; other schools receive no technology training opportunities; and still others are without effective leaders guiding them into the 21st Century.

How thankful I am for Karl Fisch and the opportunities, excitement, and vision he has brought to AHS! His expertise in technology, passion for improving education, and boundless energy (some refer to him as an elf—I think of him as the Energizer Bunny) have renewed my dedication to teaching and remaining a lifelong learner even as the twilight of my career begins.

I also want to thank many others:
• 21st Century Cohort Members, who consistently challenge me to examine my teaching practices and generously share their own
• Building administrators and mentors, who support innovative ideas and collaborative efforts
• Several brave teachers, who have invited cohort members into their classrooms to watch an entire hour of constructivist teaching
• The entire English Department for shouldering the tremendous task of promoting reading and writing skills across the curriculum
• And specifically, my desk-mate, Cheryl Makovsky, who demonstrates every day how women our age can still be creative, passionate teachers

Teaching is indeed an art, not a profession; and I am grateful to those who have encouraged and validated my individual expression. Thank you!