How it all started

Here's my story.

I started working as a technology teacher back in 1996. I was assigned to the PK and Kinder groups. After a couple of years, I moved on to working with the first, second and third graders. A few years later, I moved again, now I was with fourth and fifth graders. I felt so right at home that I continued in the same position for 12 more years!

I’m still working at the same school, ASF of Monterrey, however my role has changed. I am currently the technology training specialist for the elementary grades. This means I help teachers learn how to use the technology. I haven’t forgotten about the kids, don't worry, as I still participate in the technology integration classes and team-teach with the homeroom teacher.

Two years ago, thanks to the vision of our tech integration specialist (a brand new position at the time) this new position opened up. Of course, I didn’t think twice and I applied for the job. Actually, training teachers was nothing new to me. Since my early years at ASFM I’ve been involved with training teachers. Well, who else? Oh yes, the other tech teachers too. There were three of us. We had it all worked out, we divided all the teachers and each of us chose which teams to work with. I was always in charge of the Spanish and Specialist teachers for sure.

This is me many years ago, in a session I think was called "The One Computer Classroom". Check out the TV I was using to project my presention and the LC575's. We've come a long way!

We were really into training. We thought we were heading in the right direction. At some point in time, I surveyed the teachers, developed a training program according to their replies, and then we’d meet with them certain days after school. That was fine at that time. The tech expectations were not that demanding. But now, with so much technology deployed at school, with the school’s updated technology vision, and very importantly, in trying to support the development of the 21^st century skills through the use of technology, tech training has become a vital component in our school for all staff members and students alike.

I love my job! mostly because I keep learning and learning and learning and discovering new things. I continue my search for best practices in teacher training and will share through this blog what I have found, what resources we've used, and bits and pieces of my daily experience, that I hope you will find useful.

Cheers!