Experience

Knowledgeable

Which way should I go?

When we are presented with more than one choice the quality of our decisions oftentimes reflect the knowledge we have acquired. Using knowledge to inform our choices and gaining further knowledge by reflecting on the outcome of our decisions is essential to growth through experience. A question I oftentimes ask myself is ‘Are you better than you were yesterday?’ This question requires self-reflection on personal growth rather than likening your achievements to others. Comparing yourself to others can result in feelings of inferiority or superiority that give the impression of an end to the learning process. Conversely, self-reflection of our own progress sparks within us the fundamental human need to explore knowledge further. I believe in bettering myself everyday so that when I am faced with a choice I have the knowledge and experience necessary to choose wisely.

On the following tabs in this section you will find evidence my experiences and growth after ten years as an international teacher.

Schools

International School Experience

American International School Ho Chi Minh City

Designed and executed several cross curricular units
Implemented balanced curriculum for all students based on IB/MYP principles and the Nine Content Standards for music education
Developed implementation plan for school wide strings program
Planned and executed multiple Arts night festivals including visual arts, theater, academic, and musical elements
Built full piano lab

Sinarmas World Academy

Diploma Level Music Teaching Experience
Developed online MYP/DP compliant curriculum in a 1 to 1 environment
Planned for and began execution of plan for the development of Instrumental and Choral programs
Prepared Music and Fine Arts Department for successful CIS and IB accreditation visits
Built full piano lab

Istanbul International Community School

Developed MYP compliant curriculum integrating latest digital learning methods in a 1 to 1 environment
Expanded instrumental program to include full orchestra and choir
Conducted ensemble for annual school musical
Planned and Hosted CEESA band festival (November 2011)
Updated and procured new instruments, other musical equipment, and built full piano lab

North Jakarta International School

Designed and implemented Music Theory, History, and Ear Training curriculums based on MENC content
standards for students form grades 7-10
Improved enrolment and performance ability of all performance-based groups
Successfully planed and executed multiple concerts and special events every school year
Implemented piano performance standards for all students in grades 6-10
Helped bring latest Macintosh computers to NJIS and employ latest software in lesson design
Coached Junior Boys soccer team 2004-2009

Education

Boise State University

Master’s of Educational Technology, Boise State University; Boise, ID (Anticipated)

Special Certificate as Technology Integration Specialist
Anticipated Graduation Spring 2017

Lawrence University

Bachelor of Music Education, Lawrence University Conservatory of Music; Appleton, WI (Completed)

Winter 2001 cum Laude
Instrumental emphasis
Dean’s list, 1997-2001
Primary instrument: Violin (25+ years experience)
Secondary instruments: Piano (30+ years experience) / Trumpet (20+ years experience)

Orchestras

Orchestral Experience

Played violin for following symphony orchestras

Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra, 2002-2004
Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, 2002-2003
Lawrence University Symphony Orchestra, 1997-2001
Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras 1993-1997

Risk Taker

What if I take the plunge?

Fear is a natural reaction when stepping into the unknown. A key factor to overcoming this emotion is building confidence which is oftentimes born in the knowledge that our failures can be overcome. Identifying why we fail is a key component to building confidence and becoming a knowledgeable risk taker. Creating a safe environment for failure can be a fantastic learning opportunity when an experienced teacher gives feedback on what went wrong and strategies for the future. When a student tries again and succeeds the experience builds confidence in the learning process, allowing them to become more informed risk takers.

On the following tabs in this section you will find evidence of my experiences supporting students through the learning process in an effort to make them more knowledgeable risk takers.

Manado Bunaken 2009

NJIS Manado Bunaken 2009 Video

Student trips are an excellent time for growth and taking manageable risks. I made this video for students and their families both as a memento of an outstanding trip and as evidence of the positive effects that knowledgable risk taking can generate.

(click on the picture to start the video)

Troy 2011

Troy Gallipoli 2011

This video documents and commemorates the 2011 Istanbul International Community School week without walls trip to Troy and Gallipoli. Students experienced the ancient site of Troy as well as learning about the tragedy that was the Gallipoli campaign. Some of the best learning occurs when students step outside the walls of the school and are confronted with the real world. While a risk for nervous students and parents alike, I have seen the growth and benefits these trips provide. Please click on the picture to see the slideshow.