Lindsey Childers,
Hope Street Group Fellow
In what ways are you a connected educator?
I use Facebook, Microsoft Lync, LinkedIn, Google Docs, PBS Works, and various interactive webinars/discussions to connect with other professionals and experts in this field.
How does being connected impact your practice?
In today's world of education, if you are not connected, it is very difficult to stay caught up with the changing systems, policies, and procedures that directly impact what we do. There are a world of ideas and knowledge at the tip of our fingers and if you do not choose to connect, you will miss out! I am able to keep myself updated with curriculum changes, resources, ideas for classroom instruction, management, etc. I have also created a good system of contacts when I need them. For instance, my connections on LinkedIn helped me coordinate a speaker for the school I am currently involved in which was great! I have been emailed or contacted by people that I don't even know because they have heard of me and have questions or want to bounce ideas. It is a great way to advertise your own talents and expertise in an ever-changing field. It keeps my personal options open and helps me find quick answers to difficult questions
How does being connected impact you as a professional?
I would echo the answer to question #2.
What advice or resources would you offer to colleagues wanting to become connected?
I would say first…don't be afraid. There are so many people that shy away from technology and connecting to others because they don't know what to expect. Sometimes we feel that if we just don't step into that change, it won't happen. The bottom line is that our world is evolving faster than we can keep up! Start with one network, friends that you are comfortable with - don't overwhelm yourself with the color of your background screen or your favorite movies or quotes. Instead, focus on the purpose of your connection and allow yourself to branch out from there. You will find that each connection you make will benefit you in a slightly different way so embrace the contacts and just watch how it will increase your knowledge and confidence as an educator. I think that as your confidence builds, it becomes a little easier to continue to branch out.
For the past three years, Lindsey Childers has been an elementary school principal at Indian Hills Elementary School and for the 2013-2014 school year will transition into a district-level curriculum specialist/primary assistant principal position to broaden her ability to work with all elementary schools in the district. Lindsey began her educational career as a 1st grade teacher. She has also taught third and fourth grade over the years before becoming a curriculum specialist and a principal. Lindsey received a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude, from Murray State University. She completed her first Master’s degree in Teacher Leadership from the University of Illinois and her second Master’s degree in Education Administration from Murray State University, graduating both programs as Summa Cum Laude. She looks forward to assisting in the understanding and enthusiasm of educators across the state as the educational system continues to grow and improve in order to meet the needs of all students.
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