I knew the Kenan program would be challenging, I knew it would be fun, I knew it would be interesting but I was not prepared for how this experience would change my life. When I applied to become a Kenan fellow a little over a year ago, I had two thoughts: I have no clue what nanotechnology or wearable devices are but it sounds like something interesting to do over the course of a summer AND I’m going to get paid to do something new and engaging where I don’t have to take the lead in front of the class. Well, I was correct on both accounts but I found that being a Kenan was much more than I bargained it would be.
To be honest, I didn’t know what I expected. I’ve been to professional development sessions in the past and I have never walked away any more knowledgeable about the topic(s) being addressed than when I walked through the door at the beginning. Sure, I always did my best to find a couple of take-aways to bring back to my classroom, but they rarely amounted to anything I used for more than a week. Kenan was different. We explored and discussed new teaching techniques, trying them out instead of simply listening to someone preach about how effective the techniques were when used as they were instructing us. We experienced new tools, not just as a teacher but often as a student too. We reflected on how the tools and techniques could be used in our classrooms and were encouraged to develop lessons that fit our curriculum using the tools and techniques we learned about. We were given the opportunity to network and share tips, tricks and tools from our experience as we had extensive time to get to know other teachers, both from inside the program and guest speakers who were brought in from outside. And, we learned about a huge array of topics from outside the classroom that should matter to all teachers but most simply don’t get the opportunity to consider after a long day of teaching.
On top of the intellectual and informational side of the program, being a fellow completely changed the way I teach my classes. Gone are the ‘sit-n-git’ lectures for my students. I don’t stand in front of them as the sole expert in the room, doling out information and facts that they need to identify solely to pass a test. My classes often engage in conversations about topics, explore tools/techniques through hands-on experiences, and reflect on what they experienced in my classroom. Sure, I can’t fully pull away from lectures, but I have moved away from them as much as possible and my students really seem to appreciate it. On top of that, I have introduced new technologies, tools and techniques into my lessons, allowing my students the opportunity to try things they wouldn’t get the chance to explore in other classes. As a result, I have mixed the tools and techniques of science with the creativity and reflection often found in art classes.
And, on top of all this, I made great professional connections. The teachers who I spent my time with throughout the program have become more than just individuals I trudged through a training session with, they are valued peers and friends. I know when I get stuck on a problem and feel like I am going in circles that one of the Kenan fellows can give me a fresh perspective or direct me toward the solution. These educators have become trusted peers, friends and connections who I will value for many years to come.
So, would I do it all over again or recommend the program to other educators? Absolutely! I have been sharing my experience and recommending other teachers in my district become Kenan fellows since day one of this school year and will continue to do so. I’ve said it before on this blog and I will repeat it again: I have NEVER experienced a better run or more useful professional development in my career as an educator, including going through the process of earning my Masters degree in Business Education. I am extremely grateful for the Kenan Fellows Program providing me with this valuable experience and look forward to continuing to be involved with the program in the future!