Empowering Learning Through Choice,
Ownership, Voice, and Authenticity

A Journey of Transformation

When I started the (ADL) program, I never imagined how much it would reshape not just what I learn, but how I learn and ultimately, how I lead. The COVA approach and the Creating Significant Learning Environments (CSLE) framework have truly changed the way I think about learning for myself, my teachers, and my students.

The moment it clicked for me was during the creation of my innovation plan. For the first time, I wasn’t just completing another assignment; I was designing something that mattered, something I could see coming to life in classrooms. My plan focused on empowering PK–2 teachers to integrate technology and Seesaw into their instruction so our youngest learners could find their own voice and make their learning visible. It felt personal, meaningful, and real.

I still remember how nervous I was at first. Having that much freedom was exciting but also terrifying. There was no checklist or step-by-step guide, just an open invitation to take ownership. I kept asking myself, “Am I doing this right?” Eventually, I realized that authentic learning doesn’t come with an answer key. Once I leaned into that uncertainty, I found confidence in my ideas and joy in the process.​

Trading Compliance for Curiosity

To adjust, I had to trade compliance for curiosity. Instead of waiting for directions, I started setting my own goals, reflecting often, and connecting every project back to my district and teachers. I collaborated with peers, celebrated small wins, and learned to view challenges as opportunities for growth. If I could start again, I would give myself permission to take creative risks sooner and trust that my instincts, experience, and passion would guide me in the right direction.

Finding my voice was another turning point. Early on, I wrote for my professors. Later, I began writing and creating for my teachers, my district, and my students. That shift changed everything. My ePortfolio and professional learning strategy stopped being assignments; they became authentic representations of my leadership, my story, and my belief in what’s possible when educators are trusted to innovate.

My understanding of leadership also evolved throughout this program. Leadership required a title or permission. Now I know it’s rooted in influence, modeling, and relationships. Leadership isn’t about waiting for someone else to make a change; it's about stepping forward, even in small ways, to create meaningful learning experiences for others.

My innovation plan reflects that growth. It’s not a class project; it’s an active movement in my district. I want every PK–2 teacher to confidently use Seesaw as a tool for student choice, creativity, and connection. It’s deeply authentic because it’s a vision I’m already living out through coaching, modeling, and celebrating teacher success stories.

The COVA and CSLE approaches perfectly align with my learning philosophy. I believe learning should be personal, purposeful, and connected to real life. Before this program, I saw learning as something teachers deliver. Now, it is designing an experience that should inspire curiosity, reflection, and growth. This program didn’t just teach me about innovation—it helped me become an innovator.​

Helping Others Let Their Light Shine​

As I move forward, my goal is to carry the same spark that the ADL program ignited in me and use it to light the path for others. The COVA approach and Creating Significant Learning Environments will guide my design of professional learning that empowers teachers and, through them, students to learn with purpose, voice, and joy.​

Choice, Ownership and Voice

Just as I flourished when given choices, I want teachers to experience that same freedom. Our professional learning will no longer be one-size-fits-all but instead offer multiple pathways, collaborative Go & Show sessions, self-paced Seesaw modules, or personalized coaching cycles. When teachers choose what and how they learn, their engagement deepens, and their creativity shines through. True growth happens when teachers see professional learning as their journey. I will help them set personal goals aligned with campus priorities, track progress through reflection, and celebrate milestones along the way. By owning their learning, teachers begin to see themselves not just as participants but as designers of classroom experiences that inspire students to take ownership, too.

Finding my own voice changed everything, and I want to create that same opportunity for others. I will invite teachers to share ideas in PLCs, co-lead workshops, and model lessons. Giving teachers a platform to speak transforms professional learning into a conversation rather than a lecture, it reminds them that their experiences and insights matter. When teacher voices are honored, student voices naturally grow louder.

Preparing Others for COVA and CSLE

Change takes time and trust. I’ll model the COVA mindset in every interaction, offering teachers choices, encouraging reflection, and creating safe spaces for risk-taking. I’ll also share my own ePortfolio and projects as living examples of what authentic, voice-driven learning can look like. By being transparent about my journey, its missteps and breakthroughs, I can help others feel comfortable stepping into the unknown.​

Challenges and Courage

I know there will be obstacles: time constraints, fear of failure, and the comfort of old habits. But as I’ve learned, growth rarely happens in comfort zones. By fostering supportive relationships, celebrating progress, and keeping the focus on purpose, I’ll help teachers see that the challenges are simply part of the learning process. Together, we’ll keep the flame burning.

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