Class #2 Reflection

In reflecting back on the past several weeks, I think about the moments where I looked at the assignments and thought what in the world have I gotten myself into. As I worked on each assignment, I became thirsty for more information that could make my work better. I would go to the internet and research the different topics that were introduced in the readings. “Leading with Passion and Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher” by Nancy Fichtman Dana was quite an interesting read, but it gave me such insight and sparked me to go search for more information on the topics she addressed in her book. I really came to appreciate this book and have placed sticky tabs and highlighted important information that I feel will help me along the path of action research. This book is now a permanent part of my library that will be there for the duration of my career.

Blogs, oh wow how I appreciate and enjoy those. What insightful and intelligent people we have in our class that are going to make a huge impact as leaders on their campuses, districts, and the field of education in general. These people have come to be my source for bouncing ideas off of, they are a sounding board, and have come to be important to me all through a little thing called a blog.

I feel the same way about the discussion boards. I really appreciate the thought processes of others, and reading and responding to their posts. My classmates are such bright, enthusiastic, compassionate people who truly believe in education and the difference that can be made with a little effort. I truly appreciate the blogs and discussion boards, they help when you are stumped, they can end your writers block and spark a thought process that helps to get the ball rolling again.

I really liked the 3 videos from week 2 I believe. They were the 3 gentleman that gave different perspectives on action research that is used in their districts. One thing that stuck out was a statement made by Dr. Johnny Briseno, Principal, Rancho Isabella Elementary, Angleton ISD, he said don't reinvent the wheel. Sometimes we as teachers can make things harder than they need to be, this statement reminded me that it was already done, use the tools that are set out before me by someone else and make my mark. Don't copy someone, but be resourceful and use what is out there for my purpose.

The Facebook Page, let me just say has almost given me heart attacks and then given me comfort. Sometimes people get a little stressed about the assignments and will post something, and I think holy smokes what are they talking about did I miss something, and at other times they are comforting to know someone else out there is going through the same thing and I am not alone. I can ask a question and know that someone has an answer.  We help each other, we comfort each other, and we encourage each other. How cool is it knowing that a stranger has your back and is there to help? I think it is pretty great.