John+Sandobal


 * __Introduction with Career and Leadership Goals__**

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Looking back at what led to my decision to enter Lamar’s Educational Technology Leadership Program, I find it quite interesting. I had been out of the classroom for a few years working as a campus technology specialist and was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in either administration or technology. When I changed districts and started my role as Technology Facilitator, I knew what route I was destined to take. As I learned the ways of my current district, I knew that a master’s degree would be necessary in order to move into a higher position, so I enrolled and have been excited about the knowledge I’ve gained as part of the program. ======

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I am in a position that I truly enjoy each and every day because I have the opportunity to help others, whether they are students, teachers, or administrators. The last two years I’ve been the Lead Elementary Technology Facilitator, which has given me a whole new perspective. I’ve been involved in numerous committees and meetings in which district decisions were made. As I continue to further my knowledge and continue to grow my rapport and reputation as a qualified leader, I could see myself in a position as Instructional Technology Coordinator. The current IT coordinator, my supervisor, comes from a secondary background, so relies heavily on my knowledge of elementary. Beyond a coordinator position, I could see myself working as an educational consultant for a number of companies. Many times I’ve told myself, “I could do a better presentation than she/he did.” So why not give it a try someday. Who knows what the future will bring, but it will definitely be in educational technology. ======

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People tend to tell me that I would make a great leader. That’s reassuring to hear when my goal is to become a respected educational technology leader who people feel they can trust because of my experience and qualifications. As a leader, I want to reach as many educators as possible, so that it makes the most impact on the future, our students. I want to help seamlessly integrate technology into the curriculum and ensure that teachers are prepared to use the tools available. Too many times I see technology resources not put to use or used only by the teacher and not by students. I want to provide training that both models successful integration of technology and motivates teachers to implement practices immediately. Providing ongoing learning and support is vital, so that integration becomes second nature, not something teachers have to think about. I tell teachers that I work with, “I want to teach you so well that I work myself out of a job.” Being able to lead and make self-sufficient teachers is top on my list. ======

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It has finally become evident the importance of being a life-long learner. As a leader I want to be the reliable resource that others turn to when it comes to educational technology. I want to support the growing number of campuses of mine with current, up to date, and easy to understand research, models, and trainings on current technologies. I’m eager and excited to see the progression of technology competency as I provide training to my campuses. As I complete my course in the technology leadership program, I feel I will be prepared to lead others and continue to grow myself. I’ve learned about determination and the feeling of accomplishment in reaching goals as I begin to wrap up my last course. I intend to lead others to that same feeling of accomplishment as they seamlessly integrate technology into the curriculum and see the benefits and positive results. ======