Fun and Education in Emery County

Last week I had the opportunity to participate in a Rural Region Retreat. This was facilitated by Vicky Dahn, Utah State Office of Education.

Seeing Vicky reminded me of a few things. She has been quoted often regarding the success of technology initiatives in our public schools. She says that the number one determining factor is the vision and participation of the Principal.

I was reminded of how a Principal's influence when I spent time at the conference with Jon Crawford, Emery County School District. I met Jon nearly three years ago during a visit to Ferron Elementary School. Jon is the technology guy for Emery School District.

I remember that visit to Ferron. The halls are lined with pictures. Pictures from around the world. Paris, Rome, Emery County. These pictures give the students at Ferron Elementary a sense of belonging to the world.

Every classroom has several computers. Some classrooms have many computers. The teachers are encouraged to personalize their classrooms. I saw comfortable couches and chairs, cozy nooks that students could curl up with books or in discussion groups.

I was also impressed with a big banner near the front entrance. The names of local businesses that support the school are listed on this banner. It is impressive. Far more business are listed than can be found in the town of Ferron. It is evident that business from all around the county are partnered with Ferron Elementary.

I didn't realize at the time the uniqueness of Ferron Elementary. It's different. Why? It's the Principal. Kathleen Petersen was the Principal at the time. She had the vision of getting technology into the school. She pushed her teachers to compete with each other to apply for and get technology grants. She hired good people and gave them the vision and freedom to succeed.

She also allowed the initiatives of former adminstrators to continue. The pictures in the hallways were not original to her. She saw their value and kept them.

Kathy is no longer at Ferron Elementary. Fortunately she is still part of the Utah Education community. Her influence is still felt in Ferron. Hopefully those who follow in Ferron will build on her efforts. It will be beneficial to the students, parents and teachers in Emery County.

That's all for now.......
9:09:25 AM    comment []