Kristine Rebstock’s BlogKristine Rebstock is a STAR member of the Discovery Educator Network

Today was a good day!  I participated in a Discovery Education picture walk with other DEN members in Galveston!  What makes Texas the best state?  We spent the entire day looking at answers to that question through a photo walk around the Strand and Railroad Museum!  I learn something new with every Discovery event!  The drizzle made things a little interesting…but I guess it’s better than the heat.  Will post pics of that walk very soon…stay tuned!

I just completed my first application to attend the DEN National Institute!  Knowing there are TONS of awesome, active DEN members out there, I think this opportunity to learn and contribute is one of a kind!  I’m not sure how many they’re accepting, but I’m crossing my fingers that I am fortunate enough to get in on this one. 

 If you’ve ever been to a national event and have any advice for a newbie, please drop a note for me!  I’ll keep you posted!

Thanks LeaAnne!  I’ve been tagged…so here it goes.

1. I love the feeling of laughter through tears.

2.  I’m addicted to Discovery trainings.

3.  My 2 cats are named after dogs (Toto & Blue).

4.   My favorite vacations have been camping & snow skiing in Colorado.

5.  I want to learn another language, fluently.

6.  I wish time machines were real.

7.  My favorite number is 23.

This is my second blog ever!  My first was as guest blogger at the Central Region DEN conference this summer.  I am new to blogging, new to DEN, and a new STAR member.  I could use some quick start pointers, advice, shortcuts, and another 6 hours added to every day.  If you can help with any of those requests, I would be eternally greatful! 

I wear several hats at my campus:  I’m a tech apps teacher for Kinder – 4th grade students; I am the tech liaison for my campus; and I serve as the GT pullout class instructor for 1st – 4th grade students.  This is my second year as tech apps teacher but my first year as liaison.  I’ve taught GT for 8 years in my previous job as 4th grade teacher, but this is only my second year as instructor for all grade levels. 

I guess I got too comfortable in my own little world as a 4th grade teacher…now I feel like I’m swimming with the big fish…gotta keep up! I ENJOY my new responsibilities, but I would LOVE to find my rhythm with all the extra stuff I’m doing! 

I traded classroom clutter, homework, testing, and grading papers for another mountain of tasks that keeps me from planning and implementing some really cool tech projects with my kiddos.  I learned SO much at the Central DEN Conference…I just want TIME to get it all done.  If you’re still with me and can offer ANY suggestions, please do!