Day 3 started with another amazing morning of walking and talking as we headed to the Infosys campus in the Phoenix morning. I have never been to a professional conference where the downtimes were as powerful as the sessions. Walking together and sharing about what you do and who you are created connections that I have never had before with people who were days before complete strangers. I almost forgot about breakfast. I was able to connect with people like Sarah Boisvert and meet one of the people who made my eye surgery a possibility while talking about 3D building houses. Honestly I was simply amazed at the scope of life experiences and openness of these very talented and accomplished individuals who treated me as an important part of this larger conversation around making and computer science. |
Sometimes we forget that what works in one place is driven by the relationships and trust that was put into place not just a curriculum or idea.
I have spent my entire career in the public education system so I recognize how difficult systems change is and continues to be. It was one of the fundamental reasons why I went back into the classroom because for me change happens in my day to day interactions and learning. I would love to be part of larger scale changes but I needed to start somewhere where I could test my ideas and see what might or might not work.
My ultimate goal with CrossRoads was to build relationships with different people and organizations that would continue to build opportunities for my students and community. On Day 3, my focus was to lay the groundwork for future collaborations.
With the opportunity to apply for a C3 grant that supports further collaboration beyond CrossRoads with attendees, I approached Kelsey and Matt from CodeJoy in the afternoon. Even though they were doing the vendor garage, they dropped everything to spend two hours with me brainstorming a future collaboration. Honestly I can put into words how much I admire both of these educators. They both bring a joy of creation and learning into their work that is truly inspiring for me. We are now in the process of working on the grant application but irregardless I will continue to work with CodeJoy with or without the possible grant. | |
Two Weeks After CrossRoads
Adjusting back into the day to day was both a blessing and a reality check. I returned with a renewed sense of purpose and hope. I also realized that I need to put my ideas into place while continuing to teach which at times is a battle of time management and energy. CrossRoads reminded me to dream bigger which is a message we all need. I look at the physical pieces that I brought home with me and my bright orange cap will be the reminder that not only do I need to plant the seeds for the future of CS but that I need to remember how lucky I am to be part of this larger community. |