Hello!
My name is Janice Conboy and I was fortunate enough to have the wonderful opportunity to co-author a book for the NOW Classroom Series which is intended to help enhance teaching and learning through the use of technology. It has been a while since I have posted a blog on this site and since I am taking a multimedia graduate class in which I will be blogging about technology, it just makes sense to return to blogging here. Now for a little more about myself…
I am a kindergarten teacher at Indian Trail School in Downers Grove School District 58. I started my career as a 6th grade teacher at Indian Trail and I taught 6th grade for 16 amazing years. As much as I loved 6th grade, when the opportunity came up to move to kindergarten within my building, I jumped at the opportunity as it was a dream of mine. I am now in my third year of teaching kindergarten.
I am a life-long learner with my Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois State and a Master’s Degree from National Louis University along with an additional 60 plus graduate hours from various universities. I am passionate about making lessons meaningful and using technology in meaningful ways.
My journey with technology began early on when I piloted 1:1 iBooks for the district. The district then transitioned to iPads and I also piloted 1:1 iPads. I had the luxury of having 1:1 iPads, until the district did a refresh last year and it was decided that kindergarten would be 2:1. It was a difficult transition for me, because the students have lost some of the voice and choice that they used to have when they each had their own iPad. However, even with the challenges of being 2:1, I do not let that slow down having meaningful lessons incorporating technology. Since the change, I was asked to be on the technology committee for the district and I continue to advocate for 1:1 iPads for kindergarten.
I also enjoy working with teachers. I have offered a variety of district-level classes, led new teacher trainings, and have presented at district institute days, as well as state, and national conferences. I have also had the privilege to attend the Apple Distinguished Educator Conference.
Most importantly, I am a wife and a mom. My wonderful husband, Eric and I have been married for 16 years. Our son, Tyler is now 10 years old. We love to travel and enjoy spending time with family and friends. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love and support on my educational journey.
I look forward to sharing more with you in future blogs!
Janice Conboy