Finally some Time

So I finally have a brief opportunity to blog.

Part of my goal this year is to blog more.  I think it's one of the best things about doing this PTP, and I was talking to Erika yesterday about it and she said that it really helps her reflect.  I tend to agree.

So since the last time I blogged Alex was born which means that reflecting is very important now.  This semester I seem to have students who are more laid back, in that they don't require constant looking after.  At least my first, second, and third blocks are; my 4th block this year will prove to be trying this semester.  But I can't really complain when I only have 29 students.

I have redefined what this class is.  Last semester was me trying to stay above water, and I won't lie when I say that I really struggled with it.  I didn't really know what I was in for, but I think this semester is going to be better.  It's a little more regimented and I created a lot of goals for this class.  Now students are working on a number of different things at the same time.  My emphasis is on them being able to actually use the laptops in a way that is meaningful.  My objectives will be on the page and will serve as the basis for what students do.  So I think I'm a little more organized and the students are a little more in-touch with what is expected of them.

Now as far as my PTP goes, I think that I've found a good balance.  I know we aren't meeting as much as the other cohorts, but I think that we have very meaningful conversations.  I liked our meeting yesterday in person -- it allowed us to show each other our goals and share.

Now, to give Erika credit, we had a very long discussion about the future of PTPs.  Erika said that she would like to see PTP's and ELT's merged so that we are forced to reflect prior to meeting with each other.  I think it's an interesting concept and I will push forward with that idea when I work out the kinks.  So you should assume I'll put something together about that during my next blog.

Last, but not least, I'm nervous about today.  This big "refresh," I'm very anxious to see how teachers will accept the new accountability that will be part of this new push.  Mooresville recently has been on the cutting edge of technology integration, but recently I think we have rested on our laurels.  This refresh can change that, I think the purpose behind this will really push our students into the 21st century.  So I have to thoughts -- that I'm willing to see play out...

1) How will our staff react to these new expectations?
2) What will the accountability go?