For the second year, educators will soon convene to share how they’re using technology to enhance instruction. Clackamas ESD’s “Beyond Devices” conference on December 7 features leadership from our districts, including Lake Oswego’s Chris Hesselbein, a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) focusing on innovation in schools. In his district, he helps teachers integrate new strategies and technology in their classrooms.
What are you presenting on at Beyond Devices this year?
I will present on the methods we are employing to create communities of innovative practice in Lake Oswego SD. I’ll discuss why traditional professional development doesn’t work, and some non-traditional strategies we use to diffuse professional learning throughout the district.
How are you able to support and sustain innovation in Lake Oswego classrooms?
You cannot mandate innovation. You can only encourage it and support it by creating conditions where teachers can innovate. I find teachers who are doing amazing things and support them. Then I help them share their ideas and practices with others and support those teachers in trying that new strategy. It’s all about relationships and trust. We are all in this together and my teachers know that I have their backs when they take a risk.
Having already attended and presented at Beyond Devices last year, what would be one learning goal you would recommend for a first-time attender?
At this conference, and any conference for that matter, there will be so many ideas flying around that it might feel overwhelming. Instead of trying to master everything right away, pick one thing that you will develop over the next few months and let the rest fall into place when it feels right. Also, don’t miss out on an opportunity to have a conversation with someone from another district. Do not underestimate the power of cross pollination.
What’s an activity you do in your free time that surprisingly contributes to success in your career?
Even though I am a techy kind of guy, I like to unplug and get outside. I love climbing. I coach a youth climbing team at a local climbing gym and I also serve as an outdoor climbing guide and instructor. I think climbing keeps me pushing out of my comfort zone and reminds me how trying new things can be intimidating. However, the more we do it, the easier it gets. It also reminds me how important it is to have a trusty climbing partner when you are out there taking a risk. I think this helps me understand the fear involved when I challenge teachers to try new technologies. It’s always scary to try something that might not work, but it is a lot easier when you have the right gear and the right partner.
