This summer has been the first one since 2011 that I have not had to move, drive 3200 miles (Alaska to Wisconsin) or have any other huge life change (AKA marriage). Without these big events, I have been able to enjoy my time and use this summer as a time to recharge and have my passion for teaching rekindled. As I sit down to type this, I have thirty days left of my summer break. I am excited about all I have accomplished this summer and I look forward to doing even more in the next month.
Summer Goals
1. Modern Lessons- Thru Twitter I discovered the website Modern Lessons. It contains many free online classes on a variety of topics: social media, tools for teachers, technology and business tools. I have completed one of the classes: A Must-Have Guide to Google In Education and I am currently working thru two other classes: How To Make A Professional Online Resume and Introduction to The iPad in Education. I have found these classes to be very useful and full of helpful information that I can transfer to my classroom.
Final Goal- To finish three more lessons: The Beginner's Guide to YouTube, Integrating the iPad Into The Classroom and How To Make A Professional Online Resume.
2. Google Apps Training Center-I decided against paying to take the tests, but I am still reading thru all of the test preparation material. I work in a Google Apps District, so I have found the information to be helpful. I thought I had a pretty good grasp on how to use Google Programs, but these training modules have helped me expand my understanding of the programs. I have finished the Google Apps in Education and Gmail Modules and I am currently reading thru the Calendar Module.
Final Goal-Finish the last 4 modules: Calendar, Drive, Sites and Other Tools.
3. Book A Day Challenge-As I have mentioned in other posts, I am a self-professed book worm, so this challenge just gave me justification for reading everyday. Since May 22nd I have read 59 books.
Final Goal- Read 41 more books to reach 100 for the summer.
4. Run Streak-I originally started this when it was the Runner's World Holiday Run Streak. The goal was to run a minimum of one mile per a day between Memorial Day (May 27th) and Independence Day (July 4th). One July 4th, I ran my 100th mile during the streak and decided I wanted to keep going until school starts in the middle of August. I realize that for a real runner, 100 miles in 43 days is not that impressive, but for me, who has had a hard time sticking to running programs in the past, it has been a huge accomplishment.
Final Goal- Run 76 more miles to reach 200 miles for the summer.
5. Spending Time with Family/Friends-Summer and time off are both great excuses to spend time with my family. During the course of the school year, these relationships often play second fiddle to school/coaching commitments. Hiking, biking, golfing, family vacations and weekend trips have filled my calendar this summer. It has been a wonderful time!
What are your goals for the final weeks of summer vacation? How to you rekindle your passion for teaching and the field of education. Summer is a great reminder that we need to take care of ourselves so we can truly serve those around us. Enjoy the rest of your 2013 Summer!
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