This first week has been the best of both worlds. Not only have I had more professional development training in the past five days than in the past ten years as a publications adviser, but I have had the opportunity to dialogue on a daily basis with other journalism instructors from around the country. I have been to national and state conventions, listened to the lectures, take down the notes and grab as many handouts as I can fit in my folder or bag. But those have not and, in my opinion, do not provide the collaboration we have enjoyed this past week.
And we have another week.
I wish Hillsborough County provided the forum for the exchange of ideas we have enjoyed here. Even with all the information and tools we have been given here at #reynasu, I think perhaps the most valuable is the connections established as we braved, continue to brave, the trenches. Working together, whether in the video group or a quick 2-minute drill, has been invaluable in understanding what our students feel during the assignments we dish out on a daily basis and given insight to the thought processes of like- , and not so, minded advisers.
It was funny reading all the comments from adviser that have participated in this program from past workshops talk about how they created such concrete bonds with their Reynolds classmates. I rarely meet a stranger, so I was excited to be surrounded by other advisers but even through the conventions I have attended in the past I only forged a few friendships that lasted more than the length of the workshop. I think this one will be different. We are, after all, each other’s best resource.
Jill Burns
Robinson High School
Tampa, Fla.
Information overload.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all of your comments on the rigor of week one. It has been the best week of my profession development in every area of the publication world. The Student Press Law information, the First Amendment Right presentation, photography and InDesign and social media lecture/lab settings and the collaboration of our group sessions have provided me with more insight than any forum I have ever been involved with to date.
Sharing knowledge and challenges in a comfortable setting with colleagues and professionals in the industry is by far the most effective method of teaching and learning for me. I am in awe at the level of expertise and support out there. I know I often get caught up in my own little world in my own little 500-student population, and I get lost in the incidentals and daily routine. It is refreshing to hear others experience the same challenges as I do, even though our specific dynamics are vast and varied. The days are flying by, and I cannot wait to have another week with my new classmates. Thanks to all of you for all you have done to pull me through.
I WILL get on your map, Steve!
Maureen Barton
Sedona Red Rock High School
Sedona, Ariz.