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- Zoom, Schwartz, Perfigliano
- The Dog and the Flea
- I Drink to Cardinal Puff
- Button, Button. Who Has the Button
- Pillow on the Bottom
Zoom, Schwartz, PerfiglianoZoom, Schwartz, Perfigliano is a game of visual catch. It is simple, but challenging and funny. With at least three, but preferably five or more players seated in a circle, a player starts the game by calling out, "Does anybody here know how to play (that incredibly-delightful-or-some-other-description game called) Zoom, Schwartz, Perfigiano?" At this signal the other players raise their hands and say, "Aye!", and the starter immediately glances at another player and passes play to him by saying "Zoom". The Zoom is passed around continually by glances or stares, with the following additions. If a player wishes to pass the Zoom back, she can either glance back and say "Schwartz", or she can glance at random other player and say "Perfigliano". With the addition of Schwartz and Perfigliano, the game becomes confusing, challenging, and hilarious. A player who makes a mistake is singled out by the other players, who point their elbows at him, simulating laughter by saying "Ah-ah-ah-ahhhh!" and declaring his mistake, which may be any of the following:
- Hesitation. Breaking the cadence is a mistake.
- Using one of the words Zoom, Schwartz, or Perfigliano incorrectly. Zooming back to the previous zoomer, Schwartzing other than the previous zoomer (or schwartzer or perfiglianoer), or Perfigliano-ing while looking at the previous zoomer (or schwartzer or perfiglianoer).
The Dog and the FleaThe Dog and the Flea is sheer, delightful chaos. It works best with at least five people.
Players sit closely in a circle. Two common and opposing household items are selected, such as a brush and a comb, a fork and a spoon, or a plate and a bowl. One of the players with good leadership ability is selected as the leader and takes one of the items in each hand, deciding which is to be the dog and which is to be the flea.
Play begins by the leader handing the dog to one of the players next to her and saying, "This is a dog." The receiving player answers, "A what?" without taking the dog. The leader repeats, "A dog." The receiving player then takes the dog and passes it identically to the next receiving player with one twist. When the next receiving player asks "A what?", the first receiving player must "forget" and turn back to the leader, saying, "A what?" until the leader reminds him "A dog," and he passes it back, finally getting to hand the dog to the second receiving player. Forward and onward the dog goes. With each new receiver, the fact that it is a dog is forgotten, and the "A what?" message must go all the way back to the leader, with the "A dog" message returning all the way to the previous receiver before he can pass along the dog.
At the same time the dog is moving around one side of the circle, the flea is moving in the same way around the other side of the circle in the opposite direction. Eventually the dog and the flea cross opposite the leader, and things get very confusing.
The challenge of this game is to get the dog and the flea successfully back to the leader, who ends up sending her own question, "A what?" all the way around the circle to herself and back until the dog and the flea are delivered safely into her hands again with the final words from her two neighbors, "A dog" and "A flea".
I invite you to report to me the largest circle of people and their ages that is able to successfully pass the dog and the flea all the way around.
My Drinks To Cardinal PuffMy Drinks to Cardinal Puff is apparently a drinking game. But my alcohol-free family always enjoyed it with water. Its reliance on a cheap inside joke doesn't spoil the fun of this "follow the leader perfectly" game.
The leader sets a drink in front of him and explains that he invites everybody to see if they can imitate him perfectly. As I understand, one of the objects in an alcoholic environment is to get people drunk silly. This is the ritual the leader performs.
Clears throat. Says, "I take my first drink to Cardinal Puff." Taps left foot once then right foot once. Holds out both index fingers and taps with the left then right in the following ways: own thighs, table edge, wipe moustache. Then bows once and takes a drink.
Clears throat. Says, "I take my second drink to Cardinal Puff." Taps left foot twice then right foot twice. Holds index and middle fingers of both hands and taps twice with the left then twice with the right in the following ways: own thighs, table edge, wipe moustache. Then bows twice and takes two drinks.
Clears throat. Says, "I take my third and final drink to Cardinal Puff." Taps left foot thrice then right foot thrice. Holds first three fingers of each hand and taps thrice with the left then thrice with the right in the following ways: own thighs, table edge, wipe moustache. Then bows thrice and takes three drinks, emptying the glass on the last drink.
Of course it's common that the followers neglect to notice the throat-clearing, which leads to much drinking.
Button, Button, Who Has The Button?Button, Button, Who Has The Button is a simple game of poker face control for younger children.
Players sit in a circle with a player selected to be "it" in the middle, holding a button. Players in the circle each put their hands together in the form of praying. "It" also puts her hands together in form of praying, with the button hidden between them, then inserts her hands between the hands of each of the other players in turn, saying perhaps "Hold fast all I give you." She drops the button secretly into the hands of one of them.
When "It" has finished the circle, she rises and says, "Button, Button. Who Has the Button?" Then the other players give their opinions (possibly in order around the circle) as to who has the button. The player who identifies which other player holds the button gets to be "It" next.
Pillow on the BottomPillow on the Bottom is a blindfolded guess who game.
A player is selected to be "It", blindfolded, given a pillow, and turned around a few times while the other players secretively swap seats. Then "It" is required to use the pillow as his only means of feeling around until he thinks he has found a lap to sit on. When he is seated on a "lap" he commands, "Make a sound like a [some animal name]". The person nearest to where he is sitting, or whose lap holds him, them makes the requested animal sound, and "It" is required to guess the name of the person who made the noise. Depending on the group, a) "It" must continue until he has guessed somebody's name, at which time that person becomes "It" or b)"It" may continue until he misses guessing somebody's name, at which time the missed person gets to be "It".
Tell me about your own childhood family party games.


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Todd Whitaker
Professor – Indiana State University
Dr. Todd Whitaker has been fortunate to be able to blend his passion with his career. Recognized as a leading presenter in the field of education, his message about the importance of teaching has resonated with hundreds of thousands of educators around the world. Todd is a professor of educational leadership at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana, and he has spent his life pursuing his love of education by researching and studying effective teachers and principals.
Twitter Handle: @ToddWhitaker
Jeff Zoul
Instructional And Leadership Coach, Author, Speaker
Dr. Jeffrey Zoul is a lifelong teacher, learner, and leader, currently serving as an Instructional and Leadership Coach, Author, and Speaker. Prior to working in this capacity, Jeff served as Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning in Deerfield, Illinois and Rock Island, Illinois. He also served as a school improvement specialist with Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), the nation's largest and oldest non-profit school improvement network. Jeff served as a principal with Forsyth County Schools in Cumming, Georgia, and with North Shore School District 112 in Highland Park, Illinois. Zoul is the author of many books, including Start. Right. Now. Teach and Lead for Excellence. Jeff blogs at: jeffreyzoul.blogspot.com
Twitter Handle: @jeff_zoul
Jimmy Casas
Leadership Coach, Author, Speaker
Jimmy Casas served twenty-two years as a school leader, including fourteen years as Principal at Bettendorf High School. Under his leadership, Bettendorf was named one of the Best High Schools in the country three times by Newsweek and US News & World Report.
Jimmy was named the 2012 Iowa Secondary Principal of the Year and was selected as one of three finalists for NASSP 2013 National Secondary Principal of the Year. In 2014, Jimmy was invited to the White House to speak on the Future Ready Schools pledge. Jimmy is also the author of three books, "What Connected Educators Do Differently," "Start. Right. Now. – Teach and Lead for Excellence," and his latest release and best-selling book "Culturize – Every Student. Every Day. Whatever it Takes."
Jimmy currently serves as an adjunct professor for Drake University, teaching courses in educational leadership. Finally, he is the owner and CEO of J Casas & Associates, an educational leadership company aimed at organizing and providing world class professional learning services for educators across the country.
Twitter Handle: @casas_jimmy
LaVonna Roth
Learning Specialist, Author, Speaker, and Consultant
Self. Heart. Inspire. Navigate. Exceptional. These are the words that capture the path LaVonna Roth uses in challenging others to find out how they can ignite the S.H.I.N.E. in their students, others and self. As a learning specialist, author, keynote speaker and consultant, LaVonna bridges her passion for how the brain learns with education by helping every individual realize the value they bring. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Special Education, a Master's Degree in the Art of Teaching, as well as a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership. LaVonna taught at the elementary and secondary school levels and is the author of 8 books. She has presented in the U.S., Canada, Europe and the Middle East on increasing engagement, the fun factor in learning and fostering the S.H.I.N.E. that every person possesses. She is the founder of the Ignite Your S.H.I.N.E.™ movement where every person is encouraged to use his or her skills, talents and gifts… to illuminate the world.
Twitter Handle: @LaVonnaRoth
Pernille Ripp
Teacher and Author – Oregon, WI Middle School
Mass consumer of incredible books, Pernille Ripp, helps students discover their superpower as a former 5th grade teacher, but now 7th grade teacher in Oregon, Wisconsin. She opens up her educational practices and beliefs to the world on her blog www.pernillesripp.com and is also the creator of the Global Read Aloud Project, a global literacy initiative that since 2010 has connected more than 1,000,000 students. Her book "Passionate Learners – How to Engage and Empower Your Students" has been published by Routledge. Her second book "Empowered Schools, Empowered Students" was published by Corwin.
Twitter Handle: @pernilleripp
Joe Sanfelippo
Superintendent of the Fall Creek School District
Dr. Joe Sanfelippo is the Superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, WI. The Fall Creek School District was named 1 of 10 Innovative Districts in 2016 by the International Center for Leadership in Education. Joe holds a BA in Elementary and Early Childhood Education, a MS in Educational Psychology, a MS in Educational Leadership, and a PhD in Leadership, Learning, and Service. He is also an adjunct professor in the Educational Leadership Department at Viterbo University. Joe has taught Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 5th Grade and was also a school counselor and high school coach prior to taking on an elementary principal position in 2005. He co-hosts the Successful Schools Podcast and co-authored The Power of Branding: Telling Your School's Story, Principal Professional Development: Leading Learning in a Digital Age, and Hacking Leadership: 10 Ways Great Leaders Inspire Learning That Teachers, Students, and Parents Love. Joe was selected as 1 of 117 Future Ready Superintendents in 2014 and 1 of 50 Superintendents as a Personalized Learning Leader in 2016 by the US Department of Education. Go Crickets!!
Twitter handle @joe_sanfelippo
Kayla Delzer
Kayla Delzer is a 3rd grade teacher and technology champion in North Dakota. She is a columnist for Edsurge and blogger for Edutopia, where she writes about a variety of edtech and design topics. She is also the creator of her blog, Top Dog Teaching. She has nine years of teaching experience in second and third grade. Kayla holds her master's degree in Elementary Education and is currently in the process of becoming National Board Certified, the highest mark of professional accomplishment. On July 23, 2015 she delivered her first TEDx Talk, Reimagining Classrooms: Students as Leaders and Teachers as Learners. Kayla frequently travels around the United States as a featured and keynote speaker, and she is proud to be an international speaker with Best Keynote coalition. Her work with classroom redesign and flexible seating has become the standard worldwide. She is highly sought after by educational and technology companies to preview and review their products. Kayla sits on several advisory boards of educational companies, and works closely with Remind, Go Ennounce, GoNoodle, Amazon Education, Seesaw, and Creative Teaching Press to name a few. She was also recently selected as North Dakota's Lead Digital Innovator by PBS. She is authoring her first book for educators based on best 21st century teaching practices for digital natives, due to be published in December 2016.
Twitter Handle: @TopDogTeaching
Salome Thomas-EL
Head of School, Thomas Edison Charter School
Salome Thomas-EL lives in Delaware County with his wife and two young daughters. He has been a teacher and principal in Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE since 1987. Salome is currently the Head of School at Thomas Edison Charter School in Wilmington. Principal EL received national acclaim as a teacher and chess coach at Vaux Middle School, where his students have gone on to win world recognition as Eight-Time National Chess Champions. Principal EL was a regular contributor on the first season of "The Dr. Oz Show" and the author of the best-selling books, I Choose to Stay, about his Vaux Middle School experience, and The Immortality of Influence (Foreword by Will Smith), which stresses the importance of leadership, mentoring, parenting and service to others. The Walt Disney Company optioned the movie rights to I Choose to Stay. Thomas-EL speaks to groups around the world and frequently appears on C-SPAN, CNN, and NPR Radio. He has studied in Cambridge and London, England and is currently a doctoral candidate. He has received the Marcus A. Foster Award as the outstanding School District Administrator in Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania's distinguished Martin Luther King Award. Educational Leadership and Reader's Digest Magazine recognized Principal EL as an "Inspiring American Icon". Principal EL has also appeared on "The Oprah Radio Network".
Twitter Handle: @Principal_EL
Tom Murray
Tom Murray serves as the Director of Innovation for Future Ready Schools, a project of the Alliance for Excellent Education, located in Washington, DC. He has testified before the United States Congress and works alongside that body and the US Senate, the White House, the US Department of Education and state departments of education, corporations, and school districts throughout the country to implement student-centered, personalized learning while helping to lead Future Ready and Digital Learning Day. Murray serves as a regular conference keynote, was named one of "20 to Watch" by NSBA, and the 2015 "Education Policy Person of the Year" by the Academy of Arts and Sciences. Connect with him online at thomascmurray.com.
Twitter Handle: @thomascmurray
Sanée Bell
Dr. Sanée Bell is the principal of Morton Ranch Junior High in Katy, Texas. She has also served as an elementary principal and was recognized as the 2015 Katy ISD Elementary Principal of the Year. Sanee has served as an administrator since 2005. During Sanée's tenure as a teacher, she taught English and coached basketball at the middle and high school level. She earned her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Houston Clear Lake. Sanee is passionate about authentic, purposeful learning for students and teachers, and she also has a strong passion for leadership and its impact on teacher engagement, student learning and school culture. Sanée recognizes her impact as a leader and uses her role to inspire, motivate, and empower others. Sanée has presented at local, state and national conferences, and has written publications and several guest blog posts focused on leadership and its impact on students and teachers. Sanée shares her thoughts on leadership on her blog saneebell.com and via
Twitter Handle: @SaneeBell
Brian Mendler
Brian Mendler has extensive experience working with challenging students in general ed, self-contained, and inclusion settings. He provides staff development training for K-12 educators throughout the world with the focus on how to be successful with even the most difficult students. He trains tens of thousands of educators every year and is a highly regarded dynamic speaker. You will find that Mr. Mendler has a unique prospective that he teaches from, that of a former student who struggled with a learning disability and severe ADHD. Educators love his seminars, because he is able to provide strategies that work immediately for today's youth.
Mr. Mendler has recently authored a book titled, That One Kid. The book provides educators with easy to use strategies for preventing and responding to difficult, disruptive, defiant and unmotivated behavior. He has also authored The Taming of the Crew and co-authored books, Strategies for Successful Classroom Management, Power Struggles 2nd Edition, and the best seller Discipline With Dignity 3rd Edition: New Challenges, New Solutions.
Twitter handler: @brianmendler
Jessica Cabeen
Jessica has had the honor of being the Principal of the "Happiest Place in Southeastern Minnesota" since 2012. Prior to leading and learning at the Woodson Kindergarten Center in Austin Minnesota, she was an Assistant Principal at a Middle School and a Secondary Special Education Supervisor. She started her educational career as a Music Therapist and then a Special Education Teacher in the Saint Paul Public Schools in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Jessica is the 2017 Minnesota National Distinguished Principal and in 2016 was awarded the NAESP/VINCI Digital Leader of Early Learning Award in 2016. She is a facilitator of the Minnesota Principals Academy through the University of Minnesota as well as the principal facilitator of the Minnesota P3 Leadership Series jointly hosted by the Department of Education in Minnesota and the Minnesota Elementary Principal's Association. She co-moderates #ECEChat on tuesday night and presents at state and national conventions on learning, leading and having fun along the way.
Twitter Handle: @JessicaCabeen
Shelley Burgess
Shelley has served as an award-winning teacher, principal, Director of Student Achievement, and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Leadership. Her highly respected work focuses on building leadership capacity through coaching, collaboration, and building a positive culture of change which leads to dramatic improvements in teaching and learning. She now works as a full-time partner in Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc. and is the co-author of Lead Like a PIRATE: Make School Amazing for Your Students and Staff and P is for PIRATE: Inspirational ABC's for Educators.
Twitter handle @burgess_shelley
Kenneth C. Williams
Kenneth C. Williams shares his experience and expertise as a recognized trainer, speaker, coach, and consultant in education and leadership. He is the chief visionary officer of Unfold the Soul, a company dedicated to helping schools live their posters. Skilled in joining the why of our work to the how of our work, known for his powerful and engaging combination of 'heart, humor, and hammer,' Ken is an expert at helping schools build capacity in the collective commitments required of learning for all cultures. He is a distinguished teacher, mentor, public speaker, and school leader. Ken is the author of two books. His latest offering is with Tom Hierck entitled Starting a Movement: Building Culture from the Inside-Out in Professional Learning Communities.
Ken's background includes a BA from Morehouse College and he also holds a Masters degree in Education from the University of Bridgeport and a Leadership Certificate from the Bowie State University. For nearly 20 years, he has been a teacher, assistant principal, sales manager, educational consultant, trainer, speaker and a leading authority in the areas of collaboration, breakthrough achievement, leadership, and peak performance.
Twitter handle @unfoldthesoul
Marcie Faust
Marcie Faust is a school district leader who is passionate about redefining educational experiences in the modern-day classroom. Marcie currently serves as the Director for Innovative Learning for Deerfield Public Schools District 109 in Deerfield, Illinois where she is also the program director for the Deerfield 109 early childhood program. Prior to these roles, Marcie taught elementary and middle school and also served as a technology coach. She believes in authentic, connected learning to prepare students for their futures.
Twitter handle @mfaust
Katie Martin
Katie is the Director of District Leadership for the Buck Institute for Education (BIE). She works with district partners to support high-quality project-based learning to meet needs of learners in a changing world. Prior to joining BIE, Katie was the Director of Professional Learning at the University of San Diego's Institute for Entrepreneurship in Education. She has also served as middle school English language, literacy coach, new teacher mentor and coordinator of district programs and enjoys being an adjunct professor in diverse teacher education programs. Katie has a Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in middle school education and her Ph.D. specialized in new teacher induction and support. As a leader, teacher, and speaker, Katie's experience in research and practice continue to guide her belief that if we want to change how students learn, we must change how teachers learn. She shares her insights and lessons learned regularly on her blog, katielmartin.com and has a book, Learner-Centered Innovation coming out in winter 2017. As a mom, she wants her kids to have learning experiences in school that build on their strengths and interests and is passionate about making sure we do the same for all of our kids.
Twitter @KatieMartinEdu
Amy Fadeji
Amy Fadeji is the principal of Penngrove Elementary in Petaluma, California. In her sixth year as principal, she continues to find herself reaching out to educators across the country to build a growing network of innovative and inspiring colleagues. After attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and later the University of Southern Mississippi, Amy taught second and third grades for seven years in Mobile, Alabama and San Anselmo, California before launching her career in administration. Amy finds great joy spending her days supporting students and teachers in their learning adventures. She is passionate about modeling and encouraging risk-taking, fostering collaboration, and she delights in helping other administrators and teachers do the same! You can read her latest blog post at mrsfadeji.blogspot.com.
Twitter handle: @mrsfadeji
Tony Sinanis
Dr. Tony Sinanis is currently the Assistant Superintendent for HR and Leadership Development in the Chappaqua Central School District Public. Previously, Dr. Sinanis served as a Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction and building principal in both Westchester and Nassau counties. Additionally, Dr. Sinanis received the 2014 New York State Elementary Principal of the Year Award. Dr. Sinanis has presented at both national and local conferences and is a published author, who has co-written three books, including the Amazon bestseller, Hacking Leadership. You can find Dr. Sinanis on Twitter at @TonySinanis!
Twitter handle: @TonySinanis
Garnet Hillman
Garnet is an educational consultant and author who has extensively researched and implemented standards based learning, assessment, and grading on a classroom as well as district wide level. She spent three years as an instructional coach and fifteen years in the classroom as a World Language instructor in the Chicago area prior to shifting to full time consulting. Garnet has worked with educators around the country and presented at a variety of conferences opening minds to the possibilities of a shift to healthier grading practices. She provides a practical approach for implementation of standards based learning, assessment, and grading. Garnet is also a co-moderator of the weekly standards based learning chat (#sblchat) on Twitter.
Twitter handle: @garnet_hillman
Dave Burgess
Dave Burgess is the New York Times best-selling author of Teach Like a PIRATE and co-author of P is for PIRATE: Inspirational ABC's for Educators. He received national recognition as recipient of the 2014 BAMMY Award for Secondary School Teacher of the Year presented by the Academy of Education Arts and Sciences.
As an award-winning teacher from San Diego, California, he was recognized as Teacher of the Year, a Golden Apple recipient, and a faculty standout for 17 consecutive years in categories such as Most Entertaining, Most Energetic, and Most Dramatic. He specializes in teaching hard-to-reach, hard-to-motivate students with techniques that incorporate showmanship and creativity. His dynamic and inspirational message coupled with his outrageously energetic performance style has transformed classrooms and sparked an educational revolution around the world.
Twitter handle: @burgessdave
Erin Klein
Erin Klein is an award winning educator, national keynote speaker, author, and mother who has been twice selected to serve on the Scholastic, Inc. Top Teaching Team based in New York. Her recent publication, Amazing Grades, was a collaboration with experts from 13 countries around the world. Klein's other books include Redesigning Learning Spaces through Corwin and Assessing Students' Digital Writing through Teachers College Press at Columbia University. She travels the country speaking about the power of student voice, how meaningful technology integration can enhance learning experiences, and the impact classroom design has on today's learner. Her work can be found on her award-winning educational blog, Kleinspiration.com, and you can follow her on
Twitter handle: @KleinErin
Shannon McClintock Miller
Shannon McClintock Miller is a mom and wife. She served as the K-12 district teacher librarian at Van Meter Community School District in Iowa for 10 years. Shannon is now an international speaker and consultant who has a passion for education, librarianship, technology, social media, and making a difference in the world and lives of others, especially children. She is the Future Ready Librarians and Project Connect Spokesperson working with librarians, educators and students around the country in person and online every day. Shannon is Buncee's Teacher Librarian Advisor and Cantata Learning's Teacher Librarian Advocate.
Shannon is the author of the award winning The Library Voice blog and enjoys writing for various blogs, journals and other forums including ISTE, School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly. She recently published her first 4 children's books about library skills with Cantata Learning.
In 2014, she was named a Library Journal Mover and Shaker. In 2016, she was awarded the Making it Happen Award by ISTE.
Twitter Handle: @shannonmmiller
Joe Mazza
Dr. Joe Mazza is a father, learner, and creative educator who spurs innovation across UPenn's Mid-Career Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership (@MCDPEL). Aside from having teaching responsibilities at UPenn, he is Founder/CEO of MakerDads, a new traveling father and family and community engagement mobile makerspace. He is a frequent speaker, blogger, and podcaster both in the U.S. and internationally on family and community and school partnerships, as well as on innovative leadership and technology integration for personal and professional growth. Joe is a strong relationship builder and communicator committed to on-demand learning and ensuring students, educators, and parents understand the power of utilizing networks throughout the learning process. He is co-author of Lead Learners: Building a Culture of Empathy, Innovation and Empowerment. In his spare time, Joe enjoys retro video games, "making" at home with his four children, and cheering on his alma mater at Beaver Stadium, Penn State each fall.
Twitter Handle: @joe_mazza
George Couros
George Couros is a leading educator in the area of innovative leadership, teaching, and learning. He has worked with all levels of school, from K-12 as a teacher, technology facilitator, and school and district administrator, and is the author of the book, The Innovator's Mindset; Empower Learning, Unleash Talent, and Lead a Culture of Creativity. He is a sought after speaker on the topic of innovative student learning and engagement and has worked with schools and organizations around the globe. George is also the creator of Connected Principals.com, an initiative that brings educators and leaders together from around the world to create powerful learning opportunities for students.
George is a leader in the area of innovation, yet his focus is always on the development of leadership and people and what is best for learners. His belief that meaningful change happens when you first connect to people's hearts, is modelled in his writing and speaking. You can connect with George on his blog, The Principal of Change (georgecouros.ca).
Twitter Handle: @gcouros
Dwight Carter
Dwight Carter is the Principal at New Albany High School in New Albany, OH and has over 20 years experience as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal. His personal mission statement is to positively change lives and impact futures. He believes in the power of collaboration, continuous learning, hard work, and celebrating progress and achievement of students and Staffulty (staff and faculty). He is passionate about creating the best possible learning environment for all stakeholders to be successful. Dwight was inducted into the Jostens Renaissance Educator Hall of Fame in 2010, he was named one of three National Association of Secondary School Principals Digital Principals of the Year in 2013, and he was named the 2014 Secondary School Principal of the Year by the Academy of Education Arts and Sciences International.
Twitter Handle: @Dwight_Carter
Derek McCoy
Derek McCoy is a champion for middle school education and transforming leader and teacher practices to help our learners excel. He brings a wide range of experiences as a secondary school assistant principal, instructional coach, Director of Curriculum and Innovation and principal. He helps improve the learning and teaching efforts as well as help lead best practices with 1:1 iPad initiative. Derek was named as a 2014 Digital Principal of the Year by NASSP and has received recognitions from other groups for his efforts to use social media and technology to help connect learners with best practices and experts, create impactful collaboration networks and ultimately help grow all schools. Using the power of technology and digital tools is an essential means for lead learners to change how we teach and how students learn.
Twitter Handle: @mccoyderek
Katherine Whitaker
Katherine Whitaker is currently a high school math teacher in Kansas City, Missouri. She was raised in Terre Haute, Indiana and attended the University of Missouri to pursue her dreams of teaching. In 2012, Katherine received her Bachelor's of Science Degree in Secondary Mathematics Education. Her first three years in the classroom were spent at the middle school level teaching 8th grade Math, Algebra, and Reading. She is now teaching Algebra A, Algebra I, and Algebra II Honors at the high school level. Katherine will be graduating with her Master of Science in Educational Leadership K-12 from Northwest Missouri State University in 2016 and plans on starting her doctorate in the near future.
Twitter Handle: @MissWhitaker294
Madeline Whitaker
Madeline Whitaker is currently a 3rd grade teacher in Springfield, Missouri. She was raised in Terre Haute, Indiana, and attended Vanderbilt University to pursue her undergraduate degree at the Peabody College of Education. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and Child Studies. Additionally, upon graduating, she received the Dorothy J. Skeel Award for Outstanding Professional Promise in Elementary Education. After moving to Columbia to begin her teaching career, she enrolled in a degree program at the University of Missouri. She will be graduating in 2016 with her Master of Education Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis as well as her elementary and secondary principal certification.
Twitter Handle: @MWhitaker_Ed
Amber Teamann
Amber Teamann is the proud principal of Whitt Elementary in Wylie ISD in Wylie, Texas. During her educational career, Amber's comprehensive understanding of student learning has resulted in a successful blend of technology and teaching. From a 4th grade teacher at a public school technology center, to her role as a Title I Technology Facilitator responsible for 17 campuses, Amber has helped students and staff navigate their digital abilities and responsibilities. Amber was named the 2014 Region X's TEPSA Assistant Principal of the Year. As an active TEPSA member she also serves on the standing committee for marketing and PR. She's contributed to numerous recent publications, including "What Connected Educators Do Differently", published through Routledge. She also has written vignettes for several of the Corwin's Connected Educators series. In 2013, she partnered with George Couros to develop and curate leadership with the "School Admin Virtual Mentoring Project", which connected over 400 educators worldwide in a digital space that nurtured and cultivated leadership.
Twitter Handle: @8Amber8
Kirk Humphreys
Kirk Humphreys is the math teacher at Caruso Middle School in Deerfield, IL. This is his 5th year teaching in a flipped classroom. Kirk holds a BA in secondary math education from Western Illinois University and a MA in Teaching and Educational Leadership from Saint Xavier University in Chicago. Prior to teaching in Deerfield, he taught for 12 years as a junior high math teacher in the Rock Island-Milan School District in Illinois. Kirk serves on the Illinois State Assessment Review Committee and previously worked on the Illinois State Achievement Test (ISAT) test for the Illinois State Board of Education. Kirk was selected as the Citizen of the Year in Education for Rock Island in 2007. In 2009, he was chosen to receive The Dispatch Master Teacher award. He had the honor of receiving the Illinois Air Force Association Teacher of the Year award in 2011. Two years ago, Kirk started speaking across the state showing how he gives his students ownership of their learning in a flipped classroom. In 2015, he received the the 10th District Exceptional Educator Award by Representative Bob Dold. He has a passion for teaching students and is always looking at ways to continuously improve.
Twitter Handle: @kirk_humphreys
Angela Maiers
Angela Maiers embodies each of these descriptors with passion, commitment and fierce determination. She has been creating and leading change in education and enterprise for 25 years, teaching every level of school from kindergarten to graduate school and consulting with companies around the world. She helps learners and leaders understand the transformative power of technology and the Internet. Her powerful message and down-to-earth style has made her a highly sought-after keynote speaker for education conferences, corporate events and innovation summits.
She is the author of six books, including Classroom Habitudes and The Passion-Driven Classroom, and her "You Matter" talk at TEDxDesMoines has been viewed several hundred thousand times. Angela is the founder of Choose2Matter, a global movement that challenges and inspires students to work collaboratively to develop innovative solutions to social problems. She is an alumna of The University of Iowa, where she earned her Bachelor's in Education and her Master's in Educational Supervision and Reading.
Twitter Handle: @AngelaMaiers
Paul Solarz
Paul Solarz has been teaching fifth grade at Westgate Elementary School in Arlington Heights, Illinois, since 1999. He advocates for student-centered teaching practices and a focus on twenty-first century skills attainment.
Paul's students spend time each week pursuing personal interests during Passion Time (a.k.a. Genius Hour) and maintain personal ePortfolios of their work in class. Fortunately for Paul, his school and district administration have given him plenty of autonomy to take risks and be innovative over the years, which has led to his unique style of teaching and the motivation to share his strategies with the broader education community.
Recently, Paul was named a Top 50 Finalist for the Varkey GEMS Global Teacher Prize, widely considered to be the Nobel Prize of Education. He was also named the 2014 Educator of the Year by ICE (Illinois Computing Educators) for his work with integrating technology effectively in his classroom.
Twitter Handle: @PaulSolarz
Kim Hofmann
Kim Hofmann is a former school psychologist who has extensive experience and expertise in the special education arena. Coupled with over 12 years of building and central office leadership experience in the areas of early childhood, curriculum and instruction and special populations, Kim has helped to redefine how schools deliver curriculum and supports for students. Kim's passion is working with leaders and teachers to develop and implement systemic supports to ensure all students learn at high levels. Kim has presented and consulted both regionally and at the state level promoting and supporting schools to challenge the status quo. Kim challenges organizations to re-imagine the systems and supports offered to students along the prek-12 educational continuum. Her mantra is inspired by Rita Pierson, "every child deserves a champion." Kim is dedicated to developing systems in schools to ensure every child has a champion.
Twitter Handle: @hofmann_kim
Todd Nesloney
Todd Nesloney is the Principal/Lead Learner of Webb Elementary in Navasota, TX. He is the 2015 Bammy Award Recipient for Elementary Principal and the 2014 Award Winner for Classroom Teacher of the Year, the TCEA Teacher of the Year for 2014, a White House Champion of Change, a National School Board Association "20 to Watch", and Center for Digital Education "Top 40 Innovators in Education". Todd is also the author of children's book "Spruce & Lucy" and the co-author of the Award Winning Book, "Flipping 2.0". He is also the co-host of the popular education podcast series "EduAllStars" and "Kids Deserve It".
Twitter Handle: @TechNinjaTodd
Beth Houf
Beth Houf is the proud principal at Fulton Middle School in central Missouri. She is passionate about developing schools that encourage high levels of learning and empowerment for all. In addition to her role as principal, she also serves as a facilitator for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Leadership Academy, providing monthly training to state educational leaders. Beth was named a Missouri Exemplary New Principal in 2011 and the Missouri National Distinguished Principal for 2016. Beth is the Co-Author of Lead Like a PIRATE: Make School Amazing for Your Students and Staff.
Twitter Handle: @BethHouf
Starr Sackstein
Starr Sackstein started her teaching career in Far Rockaway High School, eager to make a difference. Quickly learning to connect with students and develop rapport, she was able to recognize the most important part of teaching, relationships. Fostering relationships with students and peers, to encourage community growth and a deeper understanding of personal contribution through reflection, Sackstein has continued to elevate her students by putting them at the center of the learning.
In 2012, Sackstein tackled National Board Certification to reflect on her practice and grow as an educational English facilitator. After a year of closely looking at her work with students, she achieved the honor. She is also a certified Master Journalism Educator through the Journalism Education Association (JEA). Sackstein also served as the New York State Director to JEA to help serve advisers in New York better grow journalism programs.
Most recently, Sackstein was named an ASCD Emerging Leader class of 2016 and had the opportunity to give a TEDxTalk about throwing out grades called "A Recovering Perfectionist's Journey To Give Up Grades."
Starr is the author of Teaching Mythology Exposed: Helping Teachers Create Visionary Classroom Perspective, Blogging for Educators, Teaching Students to Self Assess: How do I help Students grow as learners?, The Power of Questioning: Opening up the World of Student Inquiry , Hacking Assessment: 10 Ways to Go Gradeless in a Traditional Grades School and Empower Students to Give Feedback: Teaching Students to Provide Effective Peer Feedback She blogs on Education Week Teacher at "Work in Progress" where she discusses all aspects of being a teacher and education reform. Sackstein co-moderates #sunchat as well as contributes to #NYedChat. She has made the Bammy Awards finals for Secondary High School Educator in 2014 and for blogging in 2015. In speaking engagements, Sackstein speaks about blogging, journalism education, throwing out grades and BYOD, helping people see technology doesn't have to be feared.
Twitter Handle: @MsSackstein
Rafranz Davis
Rafranz Davis is the Executive Director of Professional and Digital Learning for Lufkin ISD. In this role, she supports the growth of district leaders, teachers and students through the lens of personalized learning, creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking. She is a Google Certified Innovator, Microsoft Innovative Education Expert and serves in advisory roles for multiple technology companies and organizations including the ISTE community as the chairperson of the digital equity network.
Rafranz uses her voice in education to speak at local, state and national events on topics such as connected learning, digital equity, student data and privacy, creativity, digital learning tools and diversity in edtech. In 2014, Rafranz was invited to the White House as a speaker for the official launch of the ConnectEd Initiative where she spoke on future ready professional learning through the lens of her district.
She is the author of the book, The Missing Voices in Edtech: Bringing Diversity into Edtech and is a two time Bammy Award finalist for school technologist of the year.
Twitter Handle: @RafranzDavis
John Trautwein
John and his wife Susie are the proud parents of four beautiful children, and President of Source Support Services, in Lawrenceville, GA. John and Susie suffered the tragic loss of their oldest child, their 15 year old Son, Will, who took his own life in October 2010. Will was a freshman at Northview High School, and his death devastated not only the Trautwein's but the entire North Atlanta community. As a result, John and his wife Susie started a nonprofit foundation called "The Will To Live Foundation" to work closely with kids to not only help spread the message of teen suicide awareness in our community but also help these teens recognize the wonderful bonds of friendship we call "life teammate bonds" that help each other find the good in life! John is a Graduate of Northwestern University and a former professional baseball player (Expos/Red Sox). Since the foundation started, John has made well over 500 speeches and presentations to parents, coaches, teachers and kids communities across America, spreading not only the suicide awareness message, but also the foundation's message of "love" and "hope" turning the tragedy of the loss of his son, into a positive message that improves the lives and the "Will To Live" of kids everywhere. The Will To Live Foundation has raised over one million dollars in an effort to spread the message of teen suicide awareness, and mental health education through their positive Life Teammates platform.
Twitter Handle: @WillToLiveOrg
Website www.will-to-live.org
Ross Cooper
Ross is the Elementary Principal of T. Baldwin Demarest Elementary School in the Old Tappan School District in Old Tappan, New Jersey, and the coauthor of Hacking Project Based Learning. Previously, he was the Supervisor of Instructional Practice K-12 in the Salisbury Township School District in Allentown, Pennsylvania. His work at Salisbury involved practices that include: project based learning, inquiry, assessment and grading, Writing Workshop, and reading comprehension. He is an Apple Distinguished Educator and a Google Certified Innovator. His passions are project based learning and inquiry-based learning. He blogs about these topics at rosscoops31.com. He regularly speaks, presents, and conducts workshops related to his writings and professional experiences.
Twitter Handle: @RossCoops31
Website rosscoops31.com
Brianna Hodges
Passionate change agent, mother of 2, a true CrAZy One & learning enthusiast, Brianna serves as the Director of Digital Learning and iCHAMPION Evangelist for Stephenville ISD. Recognized as 2017 Texas EdTech of the Year, EdDive's 2018 K12 Administrator to Watch, she also serves as National Advisor for Future Ready Instructional Coaches. Brianna believes that true learning experiences in every facet of life are amplified by innovation, connection and creativity. Directly responsible for the implementation of pedagogical change in her district, Brianna works with school districts across the country to champion for learning.
Twitter Handle: @bhodgesEDU
Brad Gustafson
Dr. Brad Gustafson married his high school sweetheart. Together, they have three children who remind them of their "why" every single day. Brad was recognized as Minnesota's Principal of the Year and also serves as a national advisor with Future Ready Schools. He is the best-selling author of "Renegade Leadership" and a NSBA "20 to Watch." Brad received the Digital Innovation in Learning Award from EdSurge & Digital Promise, and his school was recognized with a Local Government Innovation Award from the University of Minnesota's Humphrey School of Public Affairs. He co-hosts a popular education podcast called, UnearthED.
Twitter Handle: @GustafsonBrad
Katrina Keene
Dr Katrina Keene is a National and International speaker and has spent the last 17 years in K-12 technology education. Currently, Katrina is the Senior Strategic Outreach Manager in Education at Wonder Workshop for the Central United States. Prior to this, Katrina was an Education Strategist for CDWG, Director of Technology, Instructional Technology Coach, K-5 Computer Teacher, College Professor, as well as a 3rd Grade, 1st Grade, and Kindergarten teacher. Katrina loves staying connected with educators through Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Periscope and other social media platforms and is thrilled to bring her expertise and research to thousands of schools across the nation. Katrina's passions include Leadership, STEM, Robotics, Coding, Computer Science, and EParenting.
Twitter Handle: @DrKatrinaKeene
Amy Fast
Dr. Amy Fast is a passionate cheerleader and disrupter of public education. She currently serves as an assistant principal at a large comprehensive high school in McMinnville, Oregon. Amy is known for her innovative practices around measuring the less tangible factors of success, such as hope engagement, and student motivation. When she's not with teachers and students, her passion and research are in the area of redefining the purpose of public education in America. Over the past 17 years, Amy has served as a classroom teacher at the elementary level, an instructional coach at the elementary and mid-level, and an administrator at the high school level. She is also the author of It's the Mission, Not the Mandates. Defining the Purpose of Public Education.
Twitter Handle: @fastcrayon
A. J. Juliani
A.J. Juliani is the Director of Technology and Innovation for Centennial School District. As a former Engish teacher, football coach, and K-12 Technology Staff Developer, A.J. has worked towards innovative learning experiences for students in various roles. A.J. is also an award-winning blogger, speaker, and author of multiple books including the best-sellers EMPOWER and LAUNCH: Using Design Thinking to Boost Creativity and Bring out the Maker in Every Student.
A.J. has worked at all levels of the K-12 spectrum and has the lens of a parent (of four crazy kids) as well. He will encourage educators to not only be intentional about innovation, but also focus on how our practice needs to always be centered on the student experience.
Twitter Handle: @ajjuliani
Robert Dillon
Dr. Robert Dillon is an author, speaker, educator, and lifelong learner. His twenty plus years in education has seen him serve kids and families as a teacher, principal, technology director, and innovation leader. His primary focus is working to bring synergy to instructional design, technology infusion, and learning space design. He believes that in this synergy is the educational gold that students need to be successful citizens in a modern world. He works through an equity lens and looks to bring excellence to every classroom. For this work, he has been honored by Common Sense Media, The Center for Green Schools, the dSchool at Stanford University, the Buck Institute for Education, and Future Ready Schools. Dr. Dillon has had the opportunity to work with teachers and leaders throughout the country, and he continues to speak at local, regional, and national conferences. Dr. Dillon is the co-founder of ConnectED Learning, a Saint Louis non-profit dedicated to affordable, quality professional learning for teachers. He is the author of four books including his latest, The Space: A Guide for Educators. He is supported in his work by his wife and two amazing daughters.
Twitter Handle: @ideaguy42
Trevor Greene
Leading his school to a near 95 percent graduation rate and realizing a 67 percent increase in state science scores, Trevor Greene achieved unprecedented success in a school of 99 percent poverty on the Yakima Indian Reservation. Subsequently, he was selected by his peers as the Washington State High School Principal of the Year and is the only principal from the Pacific Northwest to have ever been recognized as Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. Following this national recognition, which included presentations nationwide and meeting with President Obama in the Oval Office, Mr. Greene completed the first fellowship for the Association of Washington School Principals as a statewide Principal Professional Development Specialist. He currently serves in the greater Seattle area in a large urban district where over 100 languages are spoken. Trevor's partnership efforts have resulted in the establishment of a bilingual teacher pipeline for District paraprofessionals to become teachers and a dual-language principal program for teachers to become administrators, only the second of its kind in the United States. Mr. Greene's leadership has also helped realize over a 10 percent improvement in the graduation rate and successfully addressed equity in hiring practices, resulting in an almost 30 percent increase in diverse, high-quality teaching staff members.
Twitter Handle: @TrevorLTGreene
Dr. Lisa Stevenson
Dr. Lisa Stevenson is the Director of Instruction for Marshalltown Community School District in Marshalltown, Iowa. She has also served as an elementary principal, an early childhood center principal, a preschool director, and curriculum director. Lisa has been a public school administrator since 2005. During Lisa's tenure as a teacher, she taught English as a Second Language at all levels from K-12 in Texas, Illinois, and Iowa. She also coached volleyball and basketball. Lisa earned her Doctorate of Philosophy in Educational Administration from The University of Iowa. She also earned a Master of Arts in Linguistics with a concentration in E.S.L. from Northeastern Illinois University as well as her Master of Arts in Educational Administration from The University of Iowa. She is a licensed PK-12 Superintendent in the state of Iowa. Lisa is passionate about equity and serving underrepresented students and their communities. She recognizes the impact that educational leaders and systems have on making sure that every single decision is made with equity at the forefront. Lisa has presented at local, state, and regional conferences. She continues to share her mission in hopes that others recognize that what they believe, including their biases and prejudices, impacts the outcomes for all of our children. Lisa shares her thoughts on leadership and public education via:
Twitter Handle: @lisamstevenson
Jennifer Hogan
Jennifer Hogan has always had a passion for helping others. She has over 20 years experience as an educator, and she is currently an Assistant Principal at Hoover High School in Alabama. She has experience at the high school level as a science teacher, coach, assistant principal and principal. In her various professional roles, she has stressed the importance of creating an engaging learning environment through relationships and respect, high expectations, and student voice.
Jennifer was named the 2018 Alabama Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year and was selected as one of three finalists for NASSP 2018 National Assistant Principal of the Year.
Jennifer is a valuable resource for educators across the globe as a presenter, mentor, and via her professional blog, http://thecompellededucator.com. As a digital and connected leader, she is the co-founder of Alabama Education Chat (#ALedchat) and the quarterly United States Education Chat (#USedchat) on Twitter, and she is a co-creator of the Compelled Tribe, a blogging community for educators.
Twitter Handle: @Jennifer_Hogan
Laura Fleming
Laura Fleming has been an educator in the state of New Jersey for over 20 years. She has been both a classroom teacher and media specialist in grades K-8 and currently as a Library Media Specialist for grades 9-12. She has played a prominent role in education as a writer and speaker and has served as an educational consultant on next-generation teaching methods and tools.
Laura is the author of the best-selling, Worlds of Learning: Best Practices for Establishing a Makerspace for Your School, as well as The Kickstart Guide to Making GREAT Makerspaces. She is also a recipient of the National School Boards '20 to Watch' in Educational Technology Leadership for 2014 and was recently nominated as a White House Champion of Change for Making
Laura currently serves as an adjunct professor for Rutgers University, where she designed and is teaching a graduate course on makerspaces. She is the founder of Worlds of Making, LLC, an educational company designed to offer meaningful professional development makerspace experiences for educators. She is also the co-founder of Hands-On Coding, LLC, which aims to offer kinesthetic coding experiences to children.
Twitter Handle: @LFlemingEDU
Jennifer Gonzalez
Jennifer Gonzalez is a National Board Certified Teacher with over 10 years of classroom experience. Most of this time was spent teaching middle school language arts, and the rest was at the college level, where she trained pre-service teachers for the classroom. In 2013, she created the website Cult of Pedagogy, where she now works full-time to help teachers of all subjects and grade levels practice and perfect the art of teaching.
Twitter Handle: @CultofPedagogy
Shaelynn Farnsworth
Shaelynn Farnsworth is a leader in the convergence between literacy and technology. As a high school teacher, she redefined her classroom using contemporary literacy practices to amplify student voice and connect them with a global audience. She continues this work as an Education Services Consultant in Iowa. There, her primary focus is on technology, literacy, and Authentic Intellectual Work. Shaelynn also partners with Steven Anderson to provide thought-leadership and professional learning around sound, instructional practices to educators and leaders across the nation through their company, Web20classroom. Shaelynn is a staff developer, literacy coach, and supports districts in the implementation of initiatives. She is a Google Certified Innovator, Microsoft Inclusive Classroom Partner, and has training in Project Based Learning from the Buck Institute, Instructional Coaching, and Reading and Writing Workshop from Lucy Calkins. Shaelynn shares her musings at shaelynnfarnsworth.com
Website: shaelynnfarnsworth.com
Twitter Handle: @shfarnsworth
Rick Wormeli
One of the first Nationally Board Certified teachers in America, Rick brings innovation, energy, validity and high standards to both his presentations and his instructional practice, which include 39 years teaching math, science, English, physical education, health, and history, as well as coaching teachers and principals. Rick's work has been reported in numerous media, including ABC's Good Morning America, Hardball with Chris Matthews, National Geographic and Good Housekeeping magazines, What Matters Most: Teaching for the 21st Century, and the Washington Post. He is a columnist for AMLE Magazine and a frequent contributor to ASCD's Education Leadership magazine. He is the author of the award-winning book Meet Me in the Middle as well as the best-selling books Day One and Beyond, Fair Isn't Always Equal: Assessment and Grading in the Differentiated Classroom (Second Edition), Differentiation: From Planning to Practice and Metaphors & Analogies: Power Tools for Teaching any Subject, all five from Stenhouse Publishers, as well as Summarization in any Subject: 60 Innovative and Tech-Infused Strategies for Deeper Student Learning (releasing in fall 2018) published by ASCD. His book, The Collected Writings (So Far) of Rick Wormeli: Crazy Good Stuff I Learned about Teaching Along the Way, is collection of his published articles, guest blogs and more through 2013. His classroom practice is a showcase for ASCD's best-selling series, At Work in the Differentiated Classroom.
Twitter Handle: @RickWormeli2
David Geurin
David Geurin has served as principal and lead learner at Bolivar High School since 2008. In 2013, the school was named a National Blue Ribbon School and Missouri Gold Star School. More recently, he was honored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) as a 2017 National Digital Principal of the Year.
David is author of Future Driven: Will Your Students Thrive in An Unpredictable World? He's passionate about leadership, school culture, and authentic learning experiences. He believes we must always be mindful that we're educating students for the world they'll live in and not the one we grew up in. He's on a mission to help others find purpose and build capacity for change and excellence. He earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Missouri in 2008. David shares insights with educators at the local, state, and national level through his keynotes, workshops, and presentations. He also shares his voice regularly via his blog, davidgeurin.com
Twitter Handle: @DavidGeurin
Joy Kelly
Joy Kelly has 25 years of educational experience at the secondary level as a teacher, coach, mentor, associate principal and principal. Joy was named the Iowa Associate Principal of the Year in 2015 where she also provides coaching and training for new administrators in Iowa. With tremendous pride, Joy currently serves as principal of Bettendorf High School in Bettendorf, IA. Joy has a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Iowa, a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Iowa and is a licensed PK-12 superintendent; she also has an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from the University of Iowa. Joy has presented at local, state and national conferences, including NASSP and ASCD. Joy believes the culture within a school directly impacts student achievement and she remains focused on nurturing trusting and meaningful relationships throughout the school community. Helping young people find their best path forward is her mission and Joy believes educational leadership is her vocation, not merely a job.
Twitter Handle: @joykelly05
Sarah-Jane Thomas
Sarah-Jane Thomas, PhD is a Regional Technology Coordinator in Prince George's County Public Schools. Sarah is also a Google Certified Innovator, Google Education Trainer, and founder of the EduMatch project, which promotes connection and collaboration among educators around the world. Through EduMatch, Sarah has published several collaborative and individual books, and serves as President on the Board of Directors for EduMatch Foundation, Inc. Sarah is also on the leadership team of the ISTE Digital Equity PLN, and Affiliate Faculty at Loyola University in Maryland.
Sarah recently graduated from George Mason University with a doctoral degree in Education, and a concentration in International Education. She also holds a Master's degree from Howard University in the field of Curriculum and Instruction.
Sarah was designated an ASCD Emerging Leader in 2016, and was named Prince George's County Public Schools Outstanding Educator Using Technology in 2015. She is also a winner of the 2014 Digital Innovation in Learning Award in the "Sharing is Caring" category, and was named by the National School Board Association as one of the "20 to Watch" in 2015. She was part of the Technical Working Group that refreshed the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Educators in 2016-2017, and in 2017, she received the ISTE "Making IT Happen" Award.
Twitter Handle: @sarahdateechur
Dwayne Reed
Teaching Phenom and educational activist, Dwayne Reed, has been crisscrossing the globe, promoting his message of love and equity in education. After seeing viral success with the release of his educational music video, "Welcome to the 4th Grade," and appearing on Good Morning America, CNN, and MTV's TRL, Reed has been on a mission to convince the world that relationships mean everything in education, and that every child, no matter their race or social status, deserves a fair chance at a quality education. Mr. Reed spends his free time writing educational songs, playing basketball, and 'chillin' in his neighborhood,' on the Westside of Chicago
Twitter Handle: @TeachMrReed
Courtney Orzel
Dr. Courtney Orzel is in her 6th year as a superintendent serving Lemont-Bromberek SD113A and has served 22 years in public education. Prior to that she held positions as middle school principal, assistant principal, and teacher. Dr. Orzel has been honored with recognition from the AASA as a finalist for the Women in Leadership Award in February of 2019, has led the IASA SuperWomen initiative in Illinois, and has led numerous workshops, PD sessions, and podcasts. She has two children, Nolan and Elle, and in her free time serves as a Rotarian and teaches as an adjunct professor for aspiring principals and superintendents.
Twitter Handle: @Drorzel
Dan Butler
Dan Butler serves as the principal of Epworth Elementary School in Northeast Iowa, focusing on positive relationships with all members of the learning community, high impact instructional techniques, building leadership capacity in others, and establishing successful school cultures. Dan continues to learn, grow, and contribute to education by presenting at local, state, and national conferences about digital leadership, 21st century public relations/communication, continuous improvement, positive psychology/employee engagement, and developing leadership capacity. Dan has received a number awards and was most recently recognized as a finalist for Elementary Principal of the Year in the State of Iowa, as well as the University of Northern Iowa Educational Leadership Legacy award winner and 2017 bizTimes.biz Rising Star in the Dubuque area. He serves as the co-moderator of Iowa Educational Chat (#IAedchat), a weekly Twitter forum held on Sunday evenings at 8:00 CST focused on the latest trends in education. Dan has published various articles to Principal Magazine focused on digital leadership, literacy, productivity. and educator engagement.
Twitter Handle: @danpbutler
Sean Gaillard
Sean Gaillard, author of The Pepper Effect, has more than twenty years of experience in education as a teacher and school administrator. He is currently principal at Lexington Middle School in Lexington, North Carolina. Prior to that role, Sean served as principal at Wiley Magnet Middle School and John F. Kennedy High School, both located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Sean has contributed various writings for Education Week, "PBS News Hour Extra," and "Education Closet." His contributions have also been featured in various books on school leadership and music including Education Write Now: Volume 2. Sean also hosts a blog and podcast, The Principal Liner Notes. Sean founded the Twitter hashtag, #CelebrateMonday, a school culture movement that celebrates positivity in the schoolhouse. Recently, Sean Gaillard was named the 2019 Wells Fargo Piedmont-Triad Region Principal of the Year and served as a finalist for North Carolina Principal of the Year.
Twitter Handle: @smgaillard
Rosa Isiah
Dr. Rosa Isiah has served students in her community for 25 years. Currently, she serves as Director of Elementary Education. Dr. Isiah is passionate about equity and access, multilingual Ed, leadership, and closing opportunity gaps for historically underserved students. Dr. Isiah's experiences as an immigrant, English learner, and a child in poverty add to her passion for this work. Rosa is founder of #WeLeadEd Twitter chat and the WeleadED BAMradio podcast focused on Ed Leadership and Social Justice. Dr. Isiah co-authored two books on the whole child, equity, and the power of relationships. She contributes her voice to blogs, podcasts, and books on social justice, diversity, equity, access, and women in leadership. Dr. Isiah was recognized as the Loyola Marymount University 2019 Leader for Social justice award.
Dr. Isiah is a Solution Tree Culture and Equity professional development associate. She has also presented on social justice topics at conferences around the world.
Twitter Handle: @RosaIsiah
Lissa Pijanowski
Dr. Lissa Pijanowski is the Founder and Chief Learning Officer of Innovate 2 Educate and serves as a Senior Fellow for the International Center for Leadership in Education. She has served public schools for over 25 years and, prior to consulting, served as an Associate Superintendent of Academics and Accountability, Director of School Improvement at the Georgia Department of Education, curriculum director, school leader, instructional coach, and classroom teacher.
Lissa's new book, Architects of Deeper Learning: Intentional Design for High Impact Instruction provides a future-ready instructional framework for teachers to become Learning Architects and design experiences for students that are both rigorous and relevant. Other publications include articles for Edutopia, Educational Leadership and the Journal of Staff Development as well as contributions to other anthologies focused on instructional excellence. You can connect with Lissa through her website www.lissapijanowski.com.
Twitter Handle: @lpijanowski
Kelly Croy
Kelly Croy is the Director of Innovation and Instruction at Port Clinton City Schools in Port Clinton, Ohio. His 28 years in education include 26 as a middle school English teacher and two as a district administrator. Kelly hosts the popular Wired Educator Podcast where he interviews amazing educators & authors from around the world and shares their stories to help teachers level-up and make a difference in the lives of students. Kelly is the author of the nonfiction books: Along Came a Leader: A Personal & Professional Guide to Leadership, and What Everyone Needs to Know About Bullying: How to Get on with Your Life When a Bully Steps Into It. He serves as an adjunct professor at Ashland University teaching courses in instructional practice and curriculum design. Kelly's work in education has been recognized by the Apple Distinguished Educator Program and he serves on the Apple Distinguished Educator Board for the Americas. He was recognized by Google, as a Google Certified Innovator, and by PBS as a PBS Digital Innovator.
Twitter Handle: @KellyCroy
Pat Adkins
Pat Adkins is the Superintendent of the Port Clinton City Schools in Port Clinton, Ohio. Port Clinton Schools have been recognized as a National Forum School to Watch and selected as a Model School by the International Center for Leadership. Pat's thirty years in education include roles as a high school teacher, director of technology, coach, building principal, and Superintendent. He has not only survived, but has thrived as Superintendent in Port Clinton for 15 years. He is an adjunct professor for Ashland University where he teaches administrative leadership courses. Pat serves as a mentor to new Superintendents and school leaders and has been recognized for his work in creating an elite culture that invests in people over programs. Pat currently works with Focus 3, a Columbus based company that provides disciplined strategies helping schools and organizations achieve an elite culture. Pat has been recognized as Port Clinton's Citizen of the Year and OMEA's Outstanding Administrator of the Year.
Twitter Handle: @pcsupt

subset: commoncrawl


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SAVEUR Welcomes Leslie Pariseau
Leslie Pariseau has joined SAVEUR where she will serve as the brand's inaugural special projects editor. Pariseau founded PUNCH in 2013 and served as deputy editor for site since inception. Established in 1994, SAVEUR is written for sophisticated, upscale lovers of food, wine, travel and adventure with emphasis on heritage and tradition from home cooking and real food, to the world of culture and eating out. Features regularly focus on food fare, culinary traditions, recipes, the kitchen, drink, classic foods, thought-provoking essays and reviews of food. For more from SAVEUR, follow on Twitter and Pinterest.
About Cision Media ResearchThe Cision Media Research Team maintains a database of more than 1.6 million records, including social influencers, traditional media contacts, outlets and opportunities. We collect and maintain the latest contact and pitching information of bloggers and journalists who can spread your message, broaden your campaign and help you build relationships with the people who matter. Follow us at @Media_Moves
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Lame duck Mayor Len Brown lost another vote in Council yesterday. This time it was his attempt to stop CCOs submitting against the provision in the Unitary Plan to line Maori pockets through 'cultural impact assessments'.
I received this press release from Councillor Cameron Brewer.
Len Brown rolled on keeping key CCOs silent on Cultural Impact Assessments
I've always been very suspicious of the motivation behind this provision in the Unitary Plan. It affects development significantly, especially so on Waiheke where many of the 3600 identified sites can be found around every part of our coastline. If you think resource consents cost a bomb now you'll find crossing the palms of up to 31 iwi for each consent will send the price through the roof. I can't help wondering if this is the price Maori have extracted for keeping silent about the mayor's disgusting use of the Ngati Whatua room.
Mr Brewer says with this specific issue in mind, both CCOs last month asked the Mayor and councillors that they be allowed to put in their own full standalone submissions to the independent hearings panel reviewing the draft Unitary Plan, after being instructed by the Mayor they were not to in an earlier letter he sent to CCOs.
Len Brown has been an authortitarian Mayor from the start. Your previous Board protested strongly about his diktat to exclude Local Boards from making submissions but to no avail. Len Brown MUST Stand Down.
Brown Taken Down - Again
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December 2017


text: REVA University signed MOU with TRINE University for various Graduate and Post Graduate programs. From REVA University Dr. P. Shyama Raju, Hon'ble Chancellor, Dr. V G Talwar Vice-Chancellor, Dr. S. Y. Kulkaramni Pro Vice-Chancellor, Dr. N. Ramesh, Director Planning, Dr. B. P. Divakar, Director R&D and from TRINE University Mr. David M. Colbert, Executive Director Office of International Services were present for signing the MOU. Some of the important programs of MOU are 'Gateway program' for Masters, 'Twinning Programs', the highlight of 'Twinning Programs' is that the students will do first two year for B.Tech program in REVA University and next two years of B.Tech in TRINE University successfully completed student will get US Bachelor's Degree from TRINE University, USA. Graduate Transfer Credits, Faculty and Student Exchange programs are other highlights of MOU.


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Oil companies want to maximize the production of their oil wells. As in most production business, there are unexpected problems that come up which can reduce production and workers' productivity, such as the reservoir behaving unpredictably, or impurities being mixed into the extracted oil. The best way to resolve these problems is to call in a well intervention service. Your company may also find it more beneficial if it invests in its own workover rig? Continue reading
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Workovers are considered one of the most difficult and expensive types of well work. The complex task is commonly performed when the completion of a well is not suited for the overall drilling job that it is part of. In other instances, the completion may have once been suitable, but then changing conditions of the drilling reservoir had begun to dictate otherwise. Continue reading
Purchasing your New Rig
If you already have a fleet of powerful hauling trailers, you might want to consider their actual carrying capacity before using them to transport your new workover rigs. Given that hauling trailers vary in size and power, you'll want to find the best fit for your existing equipment.
Otherwise, you'll only risk damaging your trailer if you burden it with a workover rig that's too heavy. Conversely, you could also be underestimating its capacity by using it to haul a rig that's too light. Be sure to keep the following tips in mind when buying workover rigs.
Among other things, take a look at the trailer's specifications in terms of mobility. Site conditions typically vary, after all, especially when you need to move around your vessel to optimize its use. While a rig's ability to be dismantled and assembled in a short time is a huge plus, the fact that you're moving around this piece of equipment can cause it to suffer significant wear and tear in no time.
Meanwhile, you need to find quality rigs made from durable materials and parts sold by an established dealers. You'll want to do business with a dealer who not only offers an optimum range of products but it also provides reasonable payment options.


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Many homeowners and renters have had the misfortune of experiencing the irritation of low water pressure. Just simple daily activities, such as washing dishes or showering can be frustrating as well as time consuming, and finding the cause of it can be just as frustrating and time consuming.
Check out the best shower heads for the money here
What causes low water pressure? It can occur for many reasons and among them, many times it can be that there are multiple people using the water at the same time whether inside or outside the home. In older homes, if built with galvanized piping, it could very well be the build up of mineral deposits in those pipes.
Whatever the case may be, it's so much more frustrating when showering. But, there are some quick fixes to your low water pressure with some top shower heads.
Best Rain Shower Head
The Thunderhead – TH2.5 is said to be one of the best on the market. It has a high-pressure rain head with a dynamic spray power. This shower head has a pressure chamber which disposes the spray evenly in a hard and stimulating flow due to its ninety spray jets.
One of the benefits of this shower head is that it never clogs and is easily cleaned by squeezing its little nipples thereby clearing the water scales. Those who have used this shower head are clearly amazed by its performance, especially extent of the body area it covers. Users claim that the Thunderhead has very clear instructions as well as a valve for water conservation.
Best Massage Shower Head
The WantBa 3.5" Rainfall Shower Head is another highly recommended high pressure with a swivel ball connector and five settings. The setting vary for comfort, including rain fall, mist, massage and two other comfort settings. Its control flow sits at 2.5 gpm and the benefit of the connections fitting standard US plumbing is an asset.
One user actually used one that was in a hotel room in Europe. She enjoyed it so much that she took a picture of it and bought one for her home. There is no better testament than this for a product.
The consensus from reviewers and users is that if you have a normal water pressure in your home, you may not notice a difference at all. However, if your water pressure is weak, the WantBa 3.5" will show you a dramatic improvement.
Top 5 Spray Setting & Water-Saver Shower Head
Let's not leave out the Vida Alegria 5" Spa-Shower with five plus high pressure shower head of 2.5 GPM's. You will definitely enjoy your shower using a choice of five sprays and a water saver.
This spa shower is very user friendly. To install, it is simple, fast and easy. In fact, included is the Telfon tape and a strong brass connector, and it does come in a hand held model.
This product is user-exciting! The reviews are definitely positive ranging from the ease of installation to the power and range of the spray. Certainly one of the best.
Best Shower Head for Low Water Pressure
Another great product is the Speakman S-2005-HB. This is a high pressure shower head that is adjustable and equipped with five adjustable jets. This produces fifty streams and eight massage sprays. The feature that users like the most besides the powerful and wide spray is that it has a self cleaning nozzle.
This shower head is found at some of the most renowned hotels leaving you with the wish that you had one at home. Voila' here it is. It's like bringing Bring the luxury home with you when you buy a Speakman.
The first thing reviewers and users remarked about is how big the show head is. It's mentioned that the fittings are metal rather then chrome plastic like you find on other models.
So, if you are not satisfied with your current low pressure coming out of an inefficient shower head, then you are at the right place. The above models will more than meet your expectations. So, what makes a shower head so uniquely promising? Certainly not the price on its ticket or the name of the product. What makes it an excellent product is the perfect number of streams, the width of its coverage on the body and the force of the water which can overcome all of your low pressure problems.
More top rated shower heads for low water pressure
With these showers and their amazing pressure, good looks and affordable price, how can you go wrong? The perfect shower can be the beginning of a perfect day.


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Jordan Rossman Grows His Revenue 300% in One Year with Curaytor
When agent Jordan Rossman moved his business to his hometown of Orillia, Canada, he needed to build his business from scratch.
As Jordan explains, "I was starting out as a new agent and had no idea where to start. I had been doing some Facebook ads, but I wasn't seeing any real results. I was trying to make do with the website provided through my real estate office but I couldn't get traction."
Jordan was looking for help. He found himself struggling as he didn't have a database to work from or a system in place to generate leads. He knew he needed a branded website and marketing systems in place, but he wasn't in a position to make a large financial investment.
"I knew there was so much value in having a strong online presence but I couldn't figure out the best way to make it happen. Plus, it wasn't just one thing I needed help with. There were so many things that needed attention that I became completely overwhelmed."
See the 6 new features Curaytor has unveiled that help clients like Jordan 3x their business
Jordan Feels Motivated to Make a Change
Jordan found himself at a crossroads. He knew that if he didn't get some help he couldn't get his business to where he wanted it to be, but being new to the real estate business he also had concerns about how much he would have to invest.
It was at a quarterly broker's meeting that Jordan first heard about Curaytor. "My broker flew in Chris Smith to be the keynote speaker at our meeting and that was my first exposure to Curaytor and their systems. I was totally blown away by his speech and I took pages and pages of notes. I thought wow, I would love to be with Curaytor. But I didn't think I could afford it."
Jordan had already begun making plans to move cities and set up The Rossman Team in his hometown, and after hearing Chris speak, he felt more motivated than ever to make the transition.
"I knew the current market I was working in was already sold out so if signing up with Curaytor was going to become a reality, making the move to switch markets was going to be my best bet. I wasn't at the same stage as a lot of the longer-term Curaytor clients. But I knew in my gut that online was the way to kickstart my business and moving into a new market would give me that opportunity.
Jordan knew that for him to make a go of it in his hometown, he needed a way to stand out and that Curaytor could help him elevate his business quickly.
"The truth is, I was sold before I called Curaytor and I was on board with the whole philosophy of Curaytor. I just kept thinking I had to be a part of it."
Building His Brand for the Long-Term
Once Jordan joined the Curaytor program, his business began to grow rapidly. In one year he saw 300% growth in his sales and grew his database from zero to over 2000 leads.
Not only did Curaytor give Jordan the tools to grow his business, but it established him as the premier real estate agent in his hometown.
"Since I joined Curaytor, I've been able to build my brand. By the end of the first six months with Curaytor, I was voted favorite real estate agent by our local paper. That happened because I was creating great content and I had an awesome platform, which meant that I was bringing value to my community. The long-term impact of what Curaytor has enabled me to do is incredible."
With business booming because he now had all the right tools, Jordan is now able to take a more focused approach to his marketing. "I actually spend more time now on my marketing, but the difference is that I have four or five different things I know I need to be doing to get results. Curaytor has helped me get away from just trying out whatever I think will stick and given me a clear path forward with my marketing strategy."
By making the investment with Curaytor, Jordan now has the best listing presentation in his city, closing 100% of the sellers he meets with. He's able to focus on spending time with clients because he's no longer struggling to figure out what works.
"I know where my leads are coming from every month and exactly what I need to do to generate more leads. I've got my database, and the time that I used to waste on trying to figure out how to do things the right way is now time I invest back into my business. Working with Curaytor has added real value for both me and my clients."
Thanks to Curaytor, Jordan has systems in place to help with growth now, and in the future.
"While I'm building a database today, in three years, when the marketing tactics have changed, I'll already have a database of thousands of people that I can communicate with. Working with Curaytor is a long-term strategy for me. The impact I'm having on people right now is an investment in my future. Curaytor is my secret weapon."
Jordan's results with Curaytor Marketer:
- Grew his sales revenue by 300% in one year
- Increased his lead list to 40x its original size, from zero to over 2000 contacts
- Has the best listing presentation in his market and closes 100% of the sellers he meets


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My Cute Friend...
We met in ninth grade biology...
and somewhere along the way became friends.
A little group of eight of us became inseparable.
We started a band, Rusted Dragon, that never played-
and now bear the shame of choosing
the most ridiculous band name ever.
To this day,
we still laugh until we cry about our pubescent shenanigans.
We even named our group "The Polo Gang..."
which, in retrospect, is equally embarrassing.
While all of us are now scattered around the world
-each doing completely different, random things-
we're still really close.
And I'm especially close to Vic...
because regardless of how dorky & sheltered we once were,
she is out living the life in Brooklyn as a photographer.
and running the site,
and, oh, yeah....
and the foodie blog,
And doggonnit, she's just so dang cute.
Look at her and her husband's new summer cuts.
So cute, I tell you!
I guess since our fake-band never actually started...
it kept us from ever breaking up.
What's your longest-lasting friendship?


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The Diamond-backed Terrapin has a long and illustrious history, first as a culinary plight to satiate the masses and then becoming an epicurean fad for the well-heeled. The fad faded in the early 20th century because populations declined and the demand for terrapin flesh could no longer be met. Populations are thought to have recovered somewhat thereafter, but in the meantime, crab pots were invented and began drowning terrapins, their habitat declined due to development and urban sprawl, and a demand for turtle flesh and pets in the Far East resurrected their harvest. This combination again threatens terrapins throughout their geographic range and the precipitous decline in many populations has alarmed researchers, conservationists, and resource managers. The need for an amalgamation of the past and present of terrapin biology, history, and management dilemmas motivated our book.
Terrapins have a coastal geographic range from Massachusetts to Texas and are the only true estuarine turtle. The variation in environmental conditions experienced throughout their range (semi-tropical to fully temperate) have resulted in broad geographic differences in activity season, life history phenotypes, and coloration; interestingly terrapins remain genetically very similar throughout their extensive range. The estuarine habitat also creates interesting physiological challenges unique to terrapins in how they acquire freshwater and expel salt. On the other hand, the terrapin life cycle and life history is quintessentially "turtle"; long lives, delayed reproduction, and low juvenile survival that make the turtle phenotype highly sensitive to increases in adult and sub-adult mortality. Therefore, terrapins are appealing to study and understand because there are aspects of their biology that are truly unique and other traits that make them an excellent model system to understand basic turtle biology and conservation. Perhaps only two other species of turtle, the slider (Trachemys scripta), and the snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) are better studied than the terrapin; both are excellent model systems but not as inherently vulnerable and quite different from terrapins.
Our book, Ecology and Conservation of the Diamond-backed Terrapin, brings together the current state of knowledge of the Diamond-backed Terrapin and we hope that it will inspire new research directions as well as improved management and policy for terrapin conservation. Although our book primarily targets academic and management audiences, we also provide a basic understanding of the terrapin's biology and plight that is appealing to a readership with more general interests in terrapins and turtles. Students of terrapin biology can learn features of their genetics, life histories, and physiology while conservationists and resource managers can learn of the threats terrapins face. Pollution, habitat loss, crab pots and other commercial gear, and a high demand that could inspire poaching threaten terrapins and these effects are summarized in our book. We also present an optimistic outlook for terrapins because there are populations that, when provided the appropriate conditions in areas without nest predators, exemplify how populations can be robust and increasing. Expanding terrapin populations provide the opportunity to test and explore new methods for turtle conservation with the hope of maintaining these immensely popular and charismatic animals for future generations.
Willem M. Roosenburg is the director of the Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Studies and a professor of biological sciences at Ohio University. Victor S. Kennedy is emeritus professor at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. He is the author of Shifting Baselines in the Chesapeake Bay: An Environmental History. Together, they are the editors of Ecology and Conservation of the Diamond-backed Terrapin.


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"I can't wait to live this perfectly imperfect life with you!"
Paul proposed on the very same dock where we visited on our second day of dating, overlooking Pensacola Bay. He told me that he wanted to relive our first dates, so we laid on the dock, looking at the stars, contemplating life, just like we had four years earlier. This time however, when it was time to get up to go home, I was trying to help Paul to his feet, and he wouldn't budge! I quickly realised that he was trying to get down on one knee! There, just the two of us, in the dark, on the middle of the dock, Paul asked me to be his wife. Along with our wedding day, it is the most memorable moment of my life. Paul is not a very emotional person, but he could barely get his words out! That meant more to me than anything. When I caught a glimpse of the ring, my first thought was "Wow, it's huge" (and by huge, I mean it didn't even fit my thumb!) And my second thought was, "It's a porpoise!?" Paul had been waiting to propose, and he didn't want to wait any longer, so on his last trip to Amman, Jordan for work, he bought a silver dolphin ring from the hotel's jewellery shop—I absolutely love dolphins! And I love my sweet husband for carrying that huge dolphin ring with him through Afghanistan for two months while we were apart. Paul later replaced that shiny dolphin ring with a beautiful old mine cut diamond solitaire, but I will forever cherish that ring, and everything it means to both of us.
Ever since Paul and I met, we were inseparable. We fell fast and hard for each other. I think that's because from very early on, we felt as if we had known each other a lifetime. We are similar in a lot of ways, but very different. Paul is strong, level-headed, practical, but beneath that exterior he has the biggest heart of anyone I know. On the other hand, Paul describes me as his "ribbon dancer", "butterfly chaser". I'm more the creative, emotional, nurturing element. We recognise each other's strengths, and let each other lead in those areas, which we think makes our relationship strong. But despite these differences, we have core commonalities—we both love travelling and new adventures, and our families and friends are top priorities for us.
From the moment I met you, I knew there was something special about you. I learned quickly that behind that handsome face was someone intelligent, full of life, and who shared my curiosity about the world.
What I didn't know yet, but would come to love about you most, is that beyond all of these things, you have the most genuine heart of anyone I know.
It's hard to say when I first knew I loved you, because it all seemed instantaneous. From the first night we met, to laying on the dock watching the stars, I felt as if I had known you and loved you a lifetime. You are truly my best friend.
Before I met you, I knew my life would be some sort of adventure; travelling the world, experiencing new places and people. What I didn't know is that I would be blessed enough to find someone to share these experiences with, someone who makes me feel at home, even when I'm thousands of miles away.
But I know that you and I are meant for each other not just because of how you make me feel, but because every day you inspire me to be the best version of myself. You encourage me if I am doubtful, you comfort me if I am ever afraid, and you remind me above all else, to see the best in every person and every situation. My world is truly brighter because you are in it.
Beyond the adventure, which I am so happy that we will have, I look forward most to the little things … and the little ones, with you. To growing old together, and knowing that God has given me a husband, and my future children, a father, that is the best example of a man—strong, kind and brave.
I promise to work every day to be the person to you that you are to me—to cherish, encourage and support you. To pick you up when you are down, and to celebrate with you when you are up.
This is a day that we will never forget, and it's only the beginning. Together we can accomplish anything, and the best part is, I know that we will. I can't wait to do life with you.
"Now at last, we are beginning chapter one of the greatest story no-one on earth has ever read, which goes on forever, in which every chapter is better than the one before."
I love you, Paul.
Wow, here we are … It has been nearly five years since the moment I first saw you and I still remember it like it was yesterday.
You walked into a busy room and everyone else melted away.
For a moment, time stopped. My heart raced and my palms got sweaty as my eyes followed you around the room. I had never been so drawn to anyone or anything in my entire life. I knew that day, November 11 2011, that I would marry you … and baby, here we are.
Jessica, my dearest love … my Mufasa, my little jalapeño, my love dove. Today, you make me the happiest man in the world. With you by my side, I am stronger, unconditionally loved, and unstoppable.
Until you, I never knew true love.
Until you, I never knew what acceptance was.
Until you, I was lost … but with you by my side, I know that we can conquer the world.
Sweetheart words cannot begin to express how full my heart is at this very moment.
You are my one and only, my Palmilla, and today I promise to always be by your side in anything we do.
So love, on this, our wedding day, I swear before God that I will eternally love and respect you.
I will always listen to you, even if I don't understand.
I will always support you in anything you do.
I will be your rock when times are hard.
I will always be here for you in this life and the next.
I know from this day forward that I will forever have your heart as you have always had mine.
I swear that I will protect you with everything I have to give.
I swear that I will always be patient, honest, and true.
Jessica, you are everything I have wanted in a wife, partner and friend. Today is just the beginning of our next great adventure, and I can't imagine doing it with anyone else in the world. You are my best friend … I love you.
Our wedding day … nothing was perfect, but it was perfectly imperfect. Ultimately, it surpassed my wildest imagination. Saying my vows to you on that cliffside in Megalochori, Greece, everything slipped away other than you. I will always remember the way the setting sun looked on your face and the way it felt on mine. In that moment, before God, in an incredible place, we became husband and wife. It was the happiest moment of my life. My prayer for our marriage is to always remember, that like that day, life is perfectly imperfect, but through it all, we always have each other. I pray that through the years we continue to grow as individuals and as a couple. I promise to always support and encourage you in all that you dream to do. I'm excited for the family that we will build … I know our children will be strong and brave like their father and grow to be capable and kind. Since we first met, something inside of you spoke to something inside of me, and that little thing continues to encourage me every single day … to dig deeper, to dream bigger, to walk in faith … Paul, you are my everything. For the rest of our lives, I promise, no matter the blessings or the challenges, to keep you always my first priority. It all began with you, and I know that one day I will look into your wrinkly, smiling bright green eyes, and be so happy, because it all ends with you too … "And they lived happily, adventurously, lovingly, imperfectly ever after."
This year has been the greatest of my life. It has been one crazy adventure up to this point and I can't wait to experience every last breath that I have in this life with you. Now that our amazing wedding is over, our next step begins. I know that I have always told you this, but I hope that you realise, you make me stronger. You make me whole. You are my everything. Every time I look at you I can imagine what an amazing mother you will be. Jessica, I cannot wait to grow with you and share with you everything I have to give. Together we will raise a family, and one day they will know your love as I have. Baby, we are best friends and soon we will be parents. Sometimes it will be difficult and sometimes we will feel overwhelmed, but as long as I have you we will make it. I love you Jess and I can't wait to live this perfectly imperfect life with you!