The week-long conference at NCCAT was one of the best professional experiences I have ever attended. Each session was extremely relevant. The things I have learned will transform my classroom environment through the inclusion of many new educational technologies. The two biggest additions to my teaching will be adding augmented reality (Aurasma) and using Kahoot.it for daily drill and/or exit tickets.

Surely, one of the most memorable experiences of the week was my trip down the Nantahala River rapids. While most of the others in my group were getting drenched in frigid water, I made the comment, “I’m pretty dry over here!” Half way through the sentence, I realized my mistake, but the momentum pushed the entire sentence out. Within about three minutes, I was tossed out of the raft by my guide and was the wettest person in/out of the raft. This resulted in being recognized the following morning with the “HMS Bounty” Award.

As a CTE teacher, everything that I experience with the KFP is extremely relevant. It will help me back up the things that I teach with first-hand experiences and ensure that the things I teach are relevant to my students and their possible future in a STEM field. I am also building my network of educators and STEM professionals that will be invaluable throughout my career.