For many years, I had a dream … a dream that I would one day find a school where I would have the freedom to learn, grow, and innovate with ICT.
At the beginning of the 2014 school year, overwhelmed by the demands of (an overly ambitious) postgraduate study workload, and the terrible impact of WA Government funding cuts on my casual teaching income, I was once again starting to question my future in the teaching profession. I felt like I was standing at the crossroads – again.
Then, after practically giving up my search for a school which valued my ICT and global education expertise, I found one … by accident. As I returned for the 2015 school year, in a new ICT integration/coaching role, I applied for the Apple Distinguished Educator program, and several International Society for Technology Education Awards, showcasing my work at school & with The Global Classroom Project.
While I was bitterly disappointed with the outcome of the ADE application process, I was delighted when the The Global Classroom Project came Runner Up in the ISTE Innovation in Global Collaboration PLN Award, and then shocked and humbled to hear that I would be officially named an ISTE Emerging Leader, Class of 2015. This award is presented to educators 35 years or younger who transform education through the visionary use of technology.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RB5z9MWH0QE
A testament to the power of the PLN
As an Emerging Leader, I am the only the fifth Australian teacher, and first Western Australian, to be formally recognised by ISTE. This is an incredible gift; a personal and professional vindication in more ways than I could ever share publicly.
It is a true testament to the transformative power of my global PLN, without whom I would have left teaching a long time ago. Thank you to those who have believed in me, and provided support, guidance, and encouragement both publicly, and behind the scenes. I’d also like to sincerely thank the ISTE Young Educators PLN and the judging panel – I am very much looking forward to working with you in the years to come!
ISTE Awards Luncheon
A special moment with my fellow Emerging Leaders Mary Ellen Weeks and Kimberley Lowden, both from the USA.
Women Of Wiki aka WOW! plan to honor Michael Graffin for his vision and support; on 15 Aug 2015, India Independence Day celebration by us Government Lower Primary School Plassanaal at a meeting to be held at http://www.sunnysgramophonemuseum.com (at Pala, Kerala – where Michael Graffin co-inaugurated Learn English Online with our Finance Minister http://goo.gl/gp2dQG
Thank you so much Sebastian!
You inspire me!!
Great reflection, and I LOVED your application video.
Once again, well done Michael. You truly deserved this.
Regards,
Karen
Thanks Karen 🙂 It is amazing what is possible when you have your PLN and leadership team behind your efforts to take risks, and try something different. I am very grateful for their support.