Learning new things

Today, I started something I've put off forever - learning some new computer science languages. I'm starting with just a refresher of HTML and CSS, but I am anxious to move on to some new ones and fulfill a long-term goal of mine and a goal I make for my students.

Code like a girl

Today, I spent many hours working on plans for the #hourofcode activities this year. With two coding clubs going strong right now, I'm super excited for this year's events. In honor of my excitement, I may have indulged in some of Code.org's code swag.

Dr. Seuss

Today, I am thankful for Dr. Seuss. After one of the most difficult days I've had in a long time since becoming a teacher, I had to remind myself of Dr. Seuss and some of my favorite quotes of his. Simple, but true.

First day run

I kicked off my first day of teaching in 6 years (at least with a full class of K-12 students) with a 5 mile race-walk. I'm thankful for the chance to get out my first day workout before my first day fatigue fully sank in.

Setting up class

Today, I set up my first classroom in 6 years. Though I share the classroom with other teachers so it is not entirely my own, it felt reminiscent of times ago. And, though, my original classroom days were rife with difficulties, I'm thankful for them and the kids who made me a better learner - not just a better a teacher.

More shoes!

Tonight, I spent many hours working on my coding club "recruitment" shoes. I made a throwback to the original 8-bit Super Mario Brothers. Today, I'm thankful for inspiration and hopeful for a successful school year!

Sewing circuits

Today, for my tinkering fundamentals course, I sewed circuits. Though I've done some work with Lilypads, it was fun to try it all again. And, after seeing technolojie.com, I'm inspired to try some new tech-infused artwork!

Keynote

Today, I delivered my first in-person keynote. Unfortunately, my ears were in a state of pure agony. However, I'm thankful for the opportunity and the ability to share my journey as an educator with other educators!

Friendship

Today, Louis (King Louis), one of our cats, is ill, but his faithful mate, Clark, is here to keep him company. Today, I'm thankful for friendship. It's a simple thing but sometimes you just need someone to lean on.

Goo

Today was a day of Goo...Google that is. I spent it presenting on all sorts of Googleness. And, though, I love spending my Saturdays working out outside, I am thankful to have had a couple hundred excited educators in my company!

Prepping

Today, I prep for multiple presentations tomorrow at #txgoo. While tiring - when you take into consideration the drive - I am thankful for this Drive...not the actual drive.

Certified

After six weeks of intensive cycling training, I'm officially ACE certified to teach indoor cycling. Now...time to audition!

Today, I'm thankful for the opportunity and strength to take on this endeavor.

Maker Faire

Today, we went to the Austin Maker Faire (what used to be the Mini Maker Faire is now an official Maker Faire). It was heavily represented by local makers and many creative ideas. Personally, I'm excited to make some awesome utility belts like these for my own makerspace or, better yet, the kids can make them!

Maker music

This year, I started holding monthly maker parties in my office to drum up interest in the makerspace and to help it grow. This week, I held a "make your own music instrument" party and was excited by the creations! Though only a few students (end of school makes it difficult!), they were committed and have come back every day since to develop their projects. And, we've decided to hold a maker concert next week. So, today, I'm thankful for their enthusiasm and creativity.

Family coding fun

Today, I hosted a family coding night for all staff, students, and family. Though only middle school students attended, I am still thankful for the excitement they shared!

Student power

Today, students showed super powers as they led a digital citizenship chapel on positive online presences. I gave them a few guiding questions and they ran with it. In fact, some even passed out brochures to other students on how to join some teen writing movements. Today, I was thankful for student voice and power.

Teaching & listening

Today, I taught a sophomore health seminar...on digital health. Today, I'm thankful to have discussions about what teens feel is appropriate digital health. Today, I listen.

Mentoring

Today, I mentored other attendees during SXSWedu and I even got my own placard. I'm thankful for the opportunity to talk with other educators and share my passion.

Middle School humor

Today, I spent a lot of time with my middle school self. I worked with other teachers to move beyond the Makey Makey banana piano so...we made a game controller out of gummy bears, playdough, alligator clips, and a Makey Makey. With a little help from Scratch, we set it so that, when each element on the controller was pressed, it said a recorded phrase. In the end, it said "my teachers are rockstars!" Now, I plan on setting this up with carpet squares outside of my office so that, when students step on the squares, it says something to encourage them into my space.

Today, I have fun.

Tinkering

Today was the first day of TCEA 2016 and I was motivated by the STEM sessions but discouraged by the lack of attendees in the academy. Despite that, I'm more motivated than ever to continue my push to encourage teachers to pursue STEM and for them to encourage their students.

And, I ended it with the results of tinkering...a great gift from +Efren Rodriguez ! A 3D printed toothbrush holder for my new place. Thank you for the thoughtful and creative gift! I'm showing it to my students!