Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters... It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

My Journey has been a Blessing!

My journey in education has been both transformative and deeply rewarding. What began as a role supporting students as a library paraprofessional has evolved into my current position as a 7th-grade Art teacher and 8th-grade PALS (Peer Assistance Leadership Skills) teacher at Lyford Middle School. Stepping into the classroom has allowed me to fully bring my passion for education, creativity, and technology integration to life.

As a library paraprofessional, I discovered how meaningful it was to guide students through research, help them build digital literacy skills, and encourage them to think critically. It was in that role that I developed the foundation for my innovation plan—using iPads and QR codes to create more interactive learning experiences. Although I only completed the first phase of that plan in the library, my transition to a full-time teaching role gave me the opportunity to take it even further.

Now, in my own classroom, I’ve continued and expanded my innovation plan. My students use iPads to create digital art, design with apps like Canva and Art Set, and generate QR codes to display their finished projects in a gallery-style format. This has transformed how students engage with their work, giving them a platform to take ownership, express creativity, and build digital confidence.

Throughout my journey, I have been committed to growing as a digital leader. I’m currently earning my Master’s degree in Applied Digital Learning, which has empowered me with the tools to create meaningful, student-centered learning environments that blend traditional instruction with innovative digital practices.

I hold an Associate’s degree in Education and Training and a Bachelor’s degree in Education. In addition to my role as a classroom teacher, I also serve as the cheer coach for middle school girls—a position that allows me to mentor and support students beyond academics. I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Applied Digital Learning because I believe technology will forever be evolving. My goal is to take that evolution and use it to transform the way we approach learning, creating innovative, student-driven experiences that prepare learners for the world ahead.

Looking ahead, I am excited to continue inspiring students through purposeful technology integration and authentic learning experiences. My goal is always to meet students where they are, and help them rise.

—Ms. Nadia Ann Flores

 My Learning Philosophy  

In this piece, I reflect on how my learning philosophy has evolved from my time as a library aide to my current role as a 7th-grade Art and 8th-grade PALS teacher. I explore how my approach to integrating technology, such as iPads and QR codes, has shaped the way I engage students in interactive, personalized learning. I also discuss how my understanding of educational theories like Constructivism and the COVA framework has deepened, helping me create more dynamic and student-centered learning environments. This piece highlights the growth in my philosophy and how it informs my teaching practices today.

COVA  

My main interest throughout the ADL program has been exploring how digital tools can transform traditional learning spaces into dynamic, student-centered environments. Starting with iPads and QR codes in the library and continuing into my own classroom, I have focused on integrating technology to boost engagement, personalize learning, and foster creativity. I am passionate about helping students become curious, independent learners by giving them choice, ownership, voice, and authentic learning experiences (COVA). This interest continues to shape how I design lessons, create learning environments, and support both academic and emotional growth in my students.

Innovation Plan 

This reflective piece outlines the transformation of an innovation plan initially centered on using iPads and QR codes in a school library to enhance digital engagement. As the author's role evolved into teaching 7th-grade Art and 8th-grade PALS, the plan shifted to focus on fostering creativity, student engagement, and leadership development. In the Art classroom, students use digital tools to create and showcase artwork via QR codes, while the PALS class emphasizes leadership and emotional intelligence through videos, journals, and portfolios. The author highlights key lessons learned—particularly the importance of flexibility, hands-on learning, and meaningful technology integration—and outlines future goals such as refining assessments, boosting collaboration, and expanding professional development. The journey emphasizes a student-centered, adaptable approach to innovation in education.

Contribution to my Learning 

In this piece, my learning community it help me  strengthened my role as a digital leader by refining my Innovation Plan, reflecting on my growth through the COVA model, and collaborating closely with peers who became my good friends. I updated my plan to better fit my classroom role and used feedback to ensure it remained student-centered and measurable. I consistently met deadlines, supported my peers, and contributed to discussions. This course helped me see how far I’ve come and reinforced the impact of my work on student engagement and learning.

My Why.. 

In this piece, I wrote about my belief that all students deserve access to technology that empowers them to learn, grow, and succeed. My passion stems from witnessing how digital tools can spark engagement where traditional methods fall short. I shared how my plan to introduce iPads, QR codes, and blended learning in the library aims to build digital literacy, critical thinking, and lifelong learning skills—especially for students without access at home. This initiative reflects my commitment to equity and preparing students for a tech-driven future.

4DX 

In this piece, I wrote about using the 4DX framework to implement blended learning with iPads and QR codes in my Art and PALS classes. The plan focuses on boosting student engagement, self-paced learning, and collaboration through digital tools. Each class has specific goals, lead measures, and progress tracking, supported by a culture of accountability and peer influence to create a tech-rich, student-centered learning environment.

Action Research Plan  

Nadia Flores’ action research explores how using iPads and QR codes in 7th-grade Art and 8th-grade PALS (leadership) classes impacts student engagement, creativity, and digital literacy. Building on her transition from paraprofessional to teacher, she continues her innovation plan to make learning more interactive and meaningful.

The study follows a mixed-methods approach, combining:

• Quantitative data (pre/post surveys)

• Qualitative data (student reflections, teacher journals, and digital artifacts)

Over a six-week period, students complete technology-based projects using tools like Canva and Art Set, with final products shared via QR codes. Data analysis includes descriptive statistics and thematic coding to identify changes and trends.

The research is grounded in literature supporting tech-enhanced learning, including the TPACK framework, and highlights the importance of digital tools in increasing student ownership and voice. The study concludes with a reflection on tools, challenges, and student leadership growth, with plans to share findings through presentations and videos for educators and administrators.

Connecting and communicating your ideas 

This Professional Learning plan helps teachers use iPads more effectively in their classrooms. It offers ongoing training, peer support, and hands-on activities to build teachers' confidence and skills. The goal is to make iPads an essential tool for engaging lessons across all subject areas. The training spans over several weeks, with teachers working together to create lessons, try out new apps, and reflect on their progress.

Blogs 

My blog is like my personal diary, where I share insights, ideas, and experiences on topics that matter to me. From my journey as a teacher and how technology is shaping my classroom, to my passion for family and hobbies, these posts reflect my thoughts and discoveries. Each blog is a snapshot of my life, with a focus on blending education, technology, and personal moments

Archives 👇🏻 some past assignments. 

Implementation 

Usability & Reflection 

Call to Action  

Planning the Alternative PL 

Connecting and communicating your ideas 

PODCAST 

Learning Manifesto 

Innovation Proposal  

Why Use An Eportfolio  

Taking Ownership of Your Leaning & ePortfolio 

Creating a Culture of Helpfulness & Growth Mindset 

Who Owns the ePortfolio  

Blended Learning Video  

Influencer Model  

Self-differentiated Leader 

Educational Resources that have helped me along my journey. 

1. Khan Academy
   Khan Academy is a free online resource that offers instructional videos, practice exercises, and a personalized learning dashboard. It's widely used by students and educators to enhance learning in subjects like math, science, and humanities.
   
   

2. Edutopia
   Edutopia is a trusted source for educators, offering insightful articles, videos, and research on a variety of educational topics, including teaching strategies, student engagement, and innovations in education.
   
   

3. Teachers Pay Teachers
   Teachers Pay Teachers is an online marketplace where educators can buy, sell, and share original teaching materials. It's a great resource for lesson plans, worksheets, and activities.
   
   

Technology and Innovation

4. TED Talks
   TED Talks is a platform offering inspiring and thought-provoking talks on various subjects, including education, technology, and innovation. It's perfect for sparking new ideas and learning from experts in various fields.
   
   

5. EdSurge
   EdSurge provides news, insights, and resources related to educational technology. It covers trends in tech integration, product reviews, and best practices in digital learning.
   
   

6. Apple Education
   Apple Education is Apple’s dedicated platform for educational tools and resources. It offers information on how to integrate Apple products into classrooms, including lesson plans, apps, and more.

Tech Tools for Teachers

7. Canva
   Canva is a graphic design platform that allows teachers and students to create presentations, posters, infographics, and more. It’s a versatile tool for creating engaging and visually appealing content in the classroom.
   
   

8. Flipgrid
   Flipgrid is a video-based platform where educators can create discussion topics and students can respond via short videos. It encourages creativity and interaction, making it a great tool for online or hybrid classrooms.