#TOSAChat is a chat on Twitter every Monday night at 8pm PST for TOSAs (teachers on special assignment), including all edtech and instructional coaches.
George Garcia, STEAM TOSA in Santa Clara, CA. I admire principal @KamstraMiakje. She is a visionary leader who is incredibly kind, supportive, and wise. Her wisdom and kindness creates a safe environment for T’s to take risks and be their best self. #TOSAchat
👋🏾 Hi, it’s Nyree from SoCal and I am an Edtech CPS. I admire my former principal Judy Scates. She taught me to “Do What’s Best For Kids!” #TOSAchat@TosaChat
Kim from SoCal. Digital Learning Instructional Coach. I admire Bob Blackney because he put kids first and modeled the utmost respect for people in all job roles #TOSAchat
Hello #tosachat! Karly tech tosa and computer science teacher from Concord, CA. Once again I'll be in and out tonight. An admin I admire is @coacheagan. He was ALWAYS there for me no matter what.
Eduardo, tech TOSA, from Palm Springs. I admire the admin staff at JWMS. They put students first and are always at the forefront of new innovation and tech. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt
Bhavini, Tech TOSA for Palm Springs. I admire my former principal, Jim Feffer because he believed in me, challenged me and pushed me to achieve things I didn't think I was capable of. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @EdTechEddie, @nzefeldt
Being innovative can be a very risky business. You need to feel the support from everyone around you to take the risks that lead to innovation. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@EdTechEddie, @TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @nzefeldt
Hey, #tosachat! Ed Tech Coach Jody from La Habra. I admire our new(ish) Superintendent @DrC_LaHabra. She's a true visionary leader. She's funny, she's a fantastic storyteller, she commands a room like a BOSS and I want to be her when I grow up! #fangirling
A1: Communicating with admin is about helping them achieve their goals for their school site. I try and meet with them at the their convenience and only if I can add value. #TOSAchat
Q1: I’m a STEAM TOSA. Since STEAM is a nebulous topic I usually have to educate people around me about what goes into my job. I overly communicate what I am doing with my bosses and invite them to as many exhibitions as possible for educational purposes.
#TOSAchat
A1: I have been in my district for 25 years so many have known me for years. Through weekly tech tips and having my name attached to many initiatives, they know where to find me LOL. "other duties as assigned" is my other title. #TOSAchat
A1: I have a flyer that goes out to all sites that hits on what I do and how I can support Ts & Ss. The flyer also includes ways they can contact me, follow me on the socials, and stay put-to-date with what I’m doing via blog, YT, Remind group, Podcast (in the works). #tosachat
A1: Starting with building relationships. Asking about their needs first then explaining how I can support them along with their staff and students. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @EdTechEddie, @nzefeldt
A1) personal connection are always the most powerful. I schedule a meeting when possible just to talk, Ross ideas around, see where their thinking is and where mine can join in. #tosachat
A1: We have coaches assigned to schools (except for me). I have my weekly newsletter, I also reach out to principals and meet with them to communicate my work and ensure I'm helping Ts achieve school goals. As a coach team, we work with our boss who shares with admin. #tosachat
Is there a such thing as “over communicate?” I find myself saying the same thing multiple times and hoping they are ready to hear it at various moments in time. #TOSAchat
When I got my job I had to define it as I went. I'm wondering what everyone does to educate the district administration about their role and goals? #tosachat
A1: I am not a full time teacher, but while working in schools I have come to learn that we must be able to adapt to any situation. We must embrace change even if we do not like it for it could end up being great.#tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @EdTechEddie, @nzefeldt
Then we post comments on the spread sheet to guide where we think the happy middle is for staff and admin. We develop PD from that point. It’s help provide exactly what Ts are seeking. #TOSAchat
It's ongoing for us, as well. We reconfigured our entire district, which means that our role has taken on some new twists, which means we need constant communication for transparency purposes. #tosachat
Q2: I focus on student outcomes when advocating for change. Sometimes I'm lucky because I've already done something to show the value in student work. Once value is recognized by admin I start working on advocating for change. #TOSAchat
A2: When it comes to advocating for change, I look at what is best for students. If the students are going to benefit, then I push for it. It doesn’t hurt if I have some data to back up my point either 😉 #tosachat
A2. Our Superintendent has signed the #futureReady Pledge. We are in the process of redefining what personalized student learning looks like @ColtonJUSD. #TOSAchat
A2) That’s the exciting part, figuring out something that is truly innovative. I’m not sure I’ve been there yet? I’ve seen it, but I don’t know that my work was there. I’m always pushing toward the next step and trying to move the elephant along toward that goal though. #tosachat
A2: This is actually not a huge problem for us. Our director pushes us to think differently about our approach to projects. I always feel like I am looking for different ways to create solutions. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt
A2:We are usually part of the discussion when it comes to changes. We TOSAs really try to help find a happy medium and consider the timing. Try to keep it real and related to classroom practices. #TOSAchat
A2: My work constantly pushes limits. I just keep moving forward. My work is research-based and grounded in evidence, so I have that going for me! I also have a lot of support from administrators. #tosachat
Sometimes the admin sees a need that the Ts don’t see as an issue and vice versa. I think it’s unclear what Ts are really doing with Ss when admin doesn’t visit rooms enough. #TOSAchat
Yep. That is what I am learning. It seems like everyone is juggling too many balls in the air. We are constantly trying to share some of that load. #TOSAchat
That’s the goal Eddie. Once we started doing it that way, there was less complaining and of course no one’s time was wasted. We all want to make sure everyone’s time is respected. #TOSAchat
A3: We provide in class support, modeled lessons, PLC or on site PD. We make supports for teachers...lessons, activities, etc #whateverittakes#TOSAchat
A3: Any initiative requires a team, riquires the right team. I try not to go to district initiatives until we have some proof that our pilot is working. We pilot everything in small chunks and then expand as we learn what works. #TOSAchat#PSUSDfam#LoveMyTeam
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt
Q3: I have a bit of a hard time with this, but over the past few years, I found a few upper administrative allies who believe in the movement of STEAM and I work with them to move initiatives forward. #TOSAchat
A3b Admin also remind Ts that we too, are teachers.... sometimes the messenger doesn't have an easy job ... TOSAs need to have a thick skin sometimes! Admin have to step in sometimes. #TOSAchat
A3: My boss (and all admin) want to see more 4Cs integration with tech in classrooms so I am doing a “Site Tour” where I go to each site and work with teachers on this. I provide them with ideas, templates, and most importantly TIME to prep/plan as a GL/PLC. #tosachat
A3) Student achievement and results are the best motivators for change...even in baby steps. Seeing and being able to celebrate achievement can help garner support. #tosachat
For sure Kim. If it’s not going to make learning more successful, the Ts are not interested. I feel like TIME is always at the center of all discussions. #TOSAchat
A3 Being able to model best practices, co-plan/co-teach lessons, and constant communication with Ts and admins have really helped us. All voices being heard and valued. #TOSAchat
#Tosachat totally agree Nyree efficiency experienced is also motivating, but sometimes we have to get teachers over the skills jump to reap the time benefits of technology.
My teachers really appreciate when I respect their time and give them time to prep/plan. Too many times I have just thrown information at teachers but that does not seem as valuable as giving them time to explore and play. #TOSAchat
A2 If you keep students’ best interests at heart, it’s a good foundation. Also I think a any type of implementation plan will help convince others. #TOSAchat
A4: I speak up if I am over-burdened and need more time. I am allowed to manage my time. Teacher requests always come first! I also schedule time for projects so I don't have a false sense of "multi-tasking" #TOSAchat
A4) I think to stay innovative you have to push yourself in new directions, meet with people outside your specialty and field of work, and see where you can make connections across seemingly unrelated professions #tosachat
Q4: Sometimes I completely shut off all of my tech and just work on paper laying down creative ideas and innovative work we have ahead. I also try to schedule time to work with innovative teachers with work that really inspires them. Their work inspires me. #TOSAchat
A4: Being creative/innovative requires deliberation, in my case it doesn't just happen. If I want creative solutions and ideas I need to put it on my calendar. My team and I try to leave Fridays open to tackle problems that require more creativity. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @Jyoung1219, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt
Hi #tosachat. Joe, elem principal, joining in late. Definitely admire my previous boss. Those 3 years as a Math & STEAM Coach/TOSA were amazing with her leadership & guidance!
In reply to
@TosaChat, @kmartintahoe, @KarlyMoura, @peerlessgreen, @EdTechAri, @annkozma723, @TeachingTechNix, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @EdTechEddie, @nzefeldt
A4 Soooooo I have not reached this nirvana yet. Still learning new job & workflow. My goal is to be able to create resources for my Ts and allow myself some 20% time. Channel my inner @KarlyMoura. #TOSAchat
Hey, @TosaChat! I’m jumping in late & hustling to catch up. #storyofmylife
A3: To move any initiative forward, demonstrating value is crucial. Just like we do with students, clearly explaining the “why” often creates buy-in. #tosachat
A4: I'm very lucky. I get to be creative in many different ways. Even with things that might seem like checklists, I figure out ways to put my own creative spin on them. #tosachat
#tosachat Yes, it can take some negotiation skills to keep teachers trying new things and motivated to keep using tech when they are first learning HOW to use it. But I do believe when they stick with it, they will see WHY they should use it.
A4 This is the part I love about my position. I get to work on projects for teachers and curate resources. Fridays are perfect for carving out time for my side projects. #TOSAchat
This is something I need to do a better job of. I have to block off time on my calendar. There are lots of things I want to do, just need to block off the time to do so and not feel guilty for doing so. #tosachat
I agree 💯 %. I am still trying to get Ts to work with me that don’t ever touch the chromebook cart in their room. 🤦🏾♀️ #tosachat I just need them to let me in. 🤔
I have a site that I put together for Ts where they can access templates that I have either made or borrowed (giving credit to the creators of course 😁) and ideas. #tosachat
A5 Besides our interest surveys, we have met with admin 1:1 and at meetings. I love the 1:1 meetings so I can personalize learning for them. Each site is a different culture. #TOSAchat
A5 We are here to support their staff so I am looking for ways to do just that. This reminds me that I should be mindful to reach out on a consistent basis. #TOSAchat
A5: We reach out to admin and set up meetings to find out how we can be supportive. Often it is at PLC meetings or helping grade level/dpet. teams. We have had a few admin bootcamps as well #TOSAchat
A lot is through the discussions we have during our PD days where we can discuss how the students will be using tech and how the integration will benefit them. #tosachat
A5: Some admin will schedule time with me. 😁 I have also gone to principal meetings to show them tech tools. They might not know the full extent of how to use it, but at least they are aware. #tosachat
Q5: I've been focusing on my coaching approaches with principles. Really focusing on reflective listening to help them move their work forward. #TOSAchat
A5: I’m usually blunt about this. I tell admins that my role is support them (and all stakeholders), and request their support as a site leader in return. #twowaystreet#tosachat
A5) Principal’s need resources when they need them. Helping them navigate the district, helping them network with one another, helping them to be more efficient, learn tech integration pedagogy, & just being there to listen & brainstorm solutions. #tosachat
Q6: This is the hardest for me. It's hard for me to say no to things and even harder to ask for things. I'd love to hear other people do this.
#TOSAchat
Awesome! Can’t wait to see what you make. Making any kind of analog art is soothing for the soul, imho. Also, I’ve found that my best friend when printing is airplane mode. #trusttheprocess#tosachat
A6 We have department monthly meetings and many of these issues are addressed there. I have also set meetings to discuss expectations and workflow. #TOSAchat
A6 While I do have 1 boss, tech is EVERYWHERE and impacts all departments. It gets a little sticky sometimes. I voice my concerns and am not shh when I see something going sideways. So far so good since this is year 7 as a TOSA. #TOSAchat
MY boss does a great job of this! He is always checking in on me to see if there is anything I need. He actually told me once, “Is there anything I can do to take something off of your plate?” We have a very open diolague with one another. #tosachat
A6) We meet weekly to discuss my projects. I’m very able at that time to ask when I need more support, get connected with resources etc. Our dept meets weekly too to check in on projects and coordinate calendars for the coming week. It’s time well spent. #tosachat
I feel like Ts see you as a form of an admin but District acknowledges you as a Teacher. You start to float in this unknown land where you don’t quite belong in either place. 🤷🏾♀️ #Tosachat
A6 Thankfully my boss is supportive and encouraging. I let her know what I need and she guides me. I think I’m missing direction but finding my way on my own. I absolutely love this work! #TOSAchat#blessed#servantminded
