I could not have done this without the support, wisdom, and advice of the following people:
Prior to beginning this journey I had known of ISTE and briefly of the certification. I was suggested to begin this process by an administrator in my district. The support for technology initiatives and endeavors in my district is very unique. From Central Administration to building administration, I could not have done this without their support.
Central Administration: Dr. Salina, Dr. Le Vaillant, Ms. DePaola, Ms. Honeyman
HS Administration: Mr. Amster, Ms. Vitale, Mr. Burgoyne
Elementary Administration: Ms. Thearle, Ms. O'Brien, Mr. Maisano, Ms. Azizollahoff
This experience could not have been made possible if it was not for the Plainedge Teacher Center. This amazing resource for staff within my district allowed me to attend both the NYSCATE training in Rochester as well as partake in the ISTE certification.
My colleagues whom I work with in STEAM (Dina Gulotta, Debbie Fallon, Lauren Schiatta, & Morgan Flanagan) and Video & TV Production (Joe Lombino) truly have been very supportive and are amazing team members.
The in-person ISTE training in Rochester was much more than a professional development. It was a one of a kind experience and the start of this amazing journey. I had somewhat an idea of what I was in for, but could not have done it without the support over those few days to get me started. My trainers Doreen and Parker were fantastic to launch my cohort and I into this. Carmelita was an amazing resource there to answer any questions along the way.
Over the course of this journey, there have been times where I was overwhelmed from the time I was dedicating. I absolutely could not have done this without the support of my family. I absolutely could not have done this without the support of my girlfriend Traci. She has been endlessly supportive and encouraging throughout this entire process.