I have always considered myself to be a person who stands up for what I believe. I have recently realized that I need to do just that!

Kirbyville CISD is currently in the process of examining a "Bring Your Own Device/Technology" initiative, more colloquially know as BYOD/BYOT. This idea in its simplest form has made many nervous, others cautiously curious, and some extremely excited about the potential to revolutionize the education that we provide our students.

I am very fortunate to have several forward thinking, innovative, and passionate teachers on my campus who are key players in the development of this concept in our district. As a campus principal, I have been on board with the concept of BYOD, but other than an occasional nod of approval and attendance at a committee meeting, I have not been very active in the process.

I had the opportunity last week to hear a colleague and friend make a presentation at the TASSP conference about Twitter and it's uses in education and the development of personal learning networks. As I listened to the presentation, I began to be convicted that I have not done a good job at being a vocal leader about one of my "soapbox" topics: giving kids an education that prepares them for their future...not our past. I realized that I need to be an active spokesman for initiatives that I feel will make a positive difference for students and educators, and seek out opportunities to share my perspectives and passion for providing kids with a cutting edge, 21st century education.

Less than a week later, I was asked to fill in for one of my teachers and help make a BYOD presentation to our Board of Trustees. I also volunteered to make a presentation at our district's annual technology camp about the use of Twitter and other social media platforms in networking and continued learning for teachers.

I look forward to seeing what great things come to my campus and Kirbyville CISD as a result of these ideas, and now I look forward to playing a more active role in promoting them!

kjhprincipal!