This week at #NCCAT has been one of the most meaningful professional development opportunities that I have ever had the honor to be a part of. During this week I was challenged professionally and socially. 

Professionally, I was challenged to think about myself as a teacher and both celebrate what I do well and then to reflect on what I could do better for my students. Mark gave us the opportunity to self reflect on our brand. That was really the first time in my recent career where I took time to think about who I am as a teacher leader and who I want to be. It was very difficult to do at first because I think that the nature of the beast as a teacher, is to focus more on what we need to do to improve instead on what we do well. It was challenging for me to find a brand that encompassed who I feel I am to my peers, students, and covered my duel positions. After many attempts and time to sit on it, I came up with my final brand. I think that it shows my intentions as an educator and shows my focus. My brand is Intentional, Visionary for Student Success. 

Socially, I felt so welcomed in this group of people. I was very nervous about coming to a week long PD event not knowing one person. I usually find my friends and stay in that group of people. Rarely do I venture out to meet new people on my own. This event proved to me that I can do that. I feel that I have built such meaningful connections in such a short period of time. I am thankful for these people who will travel this journey with me and will have my back. I am proud to do the same for them. 

This week was meaningful to me as it rejuvenated me as an educator and it helped me to find “my people!” I am forever grateful.