Which classes do you teach online?
Education Law and Regulation and Practicum in Educational Administration
What types of projects can your students expect in these courses?
The law course leans heavily on online discussion boards. Reading the material and answering questions helps with basic understanding, but discussing it with peers and the instructor allows students to apply the knowledge in school situations.
The practicum course engages students in their current school assignment with leaders in their district. Students will interview, shadow, and write reflective papers to demonstrate new knowledge and how they will apply that knowledge when they are in a leadership position.
What do students learn in your classes? What is the expected outcome?
The obvious answer for the law course is knowledge. I continue to get feedback from students saying they wish they had this knowledge as a teacher, let alone as an administrator.
The most important learning in the practicum course is an increased awareness of all of the tasks of an administrator. Students often state that their perspective becomes building-wide instead of just their classroom.
What advice would you give to those considering this online education program?
You don't have to be convinced that you want to be a principal to start this program. Most of the courses have the potential to make you a better classroom teacher, and the coursework will help you decide if administration is something that interests you.
Why did you start teaching?
For me, teaching was a fall back from what I went to college to do. It didn't start as a passion, but quickly became one.
What is the one book you think everyone should read?
This is more of a personal response than professional. I'd recommend "The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman. It's all about relationships!
Tell us something that your students might find interesting about you.
I think life is full of things you have to do and things you get to do. Teaching at Emporia State is something I get to do. I feel very blessed to have this opportunity.
