Monday, September 1, 2014

Tracy's Tuesday Tech Tip: Welcome Back!

As the sun set for it's final time of a teacher's summer, can't help but remember the good times - fishing on the lake, climbing, kayaking, campfires, softball games, traveling, and more. Coupled in with all of it are those irreplaceable moments of laughter, smiles, tears, joys and the care and love for one another.

Sometimes, the year is long. Other times, just the day is long. But for each kid we get to see walk out our door after class a little brighter and a little more hopeful, that's what it's about, that's the impact and the difference we make. Remember those in the middle of the polar vortex, or another long night of meetings or when the coffee machine, copier and laminator all break on the same day. Think back to summer and those emotions you shared with one another and those same emotions you have the honor and privilege of sharing with your students.


So we start fresh, once again - many with new faces and smiles, others with students and families we've known for many years. Together, through each day, week, month and finally our school year come June, we are able to reflect and see the growth of our students, how far they've come and what they can accomplish.

I have the privilege of knowing singer-songwriter Tony Memmel and his wife, Lesleigh who were contestants on VH1's Making a Band Famous. Together, they wrote a beautiful song, "I Know We'll Get There" in just a few hours, describing the hope and promise for the future. This song can give hope to anyone for anything - starting up the school year, exploring new technology, new challenges and obstacles and so much more. The central message of coming together and reaching your final destination is one shared belief of all teachers and educators at the core of our profession, and gives inspirations for anyone listening to apply to their own lives.

Welcome to a new school year of 2014-2015! If you're just getting into the tech side of things, start small - maybe naming some Google Folders with your students, making a website, having a discussion board or blog, or even delving into videoing goal setting sessions with your students. More tips coming in the future weeks!

Best wishes as you begin - I know we'll get there!

For a listen to "I Know We'll Get There," checkout Tony's Bandcamp Website: http://tonymemmel.bandcamp.com/track/i-know-well-get-there

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