Transition

I teach elementary students. I teach in an old fashion way in many regards.

* Chalk boards. Not white boards or smart boards

* Memorize information (phonics, grammar rules, math facts)

*Teach toward subject specific tests. Not standardized tests.

I also teach using small group instruction. I will not teach more than 5 students at a time. One of the many benefits of small group instruction is individualized instruction and attention. Another benefit is that students are able to learn at their own pace. Because instruction is individualized, the students do not miss anything if they have to be out for any reason.

Why do parents seek out options for educating their children? There have been many different reasons over the years. Below is a short list, but covers the majority of the students.

*The child learns at a slower pace and got left behind in the traditional school setting.

*The child was struggling with, or failing, the common core math.

*Parents were unable to understand and assist with common core math homework.

*The child was being bullied at school.

*The child has medical issues that requires many days away from school for medical appointments.

*The child is in the entertainment business, and needs to be away for auditions and filming.

Knowing the background, you may be wondering why I'm seeking a Master's Degree in Digital Learning and Leading. It seems to be contrary to my current teaching situation. I have a list of reasons why I have chosen this specific degree.

*I want to be able to offer options to students with medical issues, or the student in the entertainment business.

*I want older students be knowledgeable about the digital options for education.

*I want older students to be familiar with various programs that can assist with education, such as PowerPoints or iMovie.

*I would like to be an online professor one day.

I need to learn and be prepared for the future. Though I am learning and preparing for the future, I am also learning by doing. Not only am I the student, but I am learning and teaching digital education at the same time. (You can read about how my timeline changed by selecting the Epiphany tab above.)

I have decided to call this my transition period. I'm learning and preparing. I'm teaching and growing. I'm expanding my knowledge, and trying to do the same for my students, specifically Anthony. I'm preparing for the future, but the future is now.