Mind Shift Winter 2012 | Page 2

Cary Harrod

In 2006, after spending 19 years as a classroom teacher and a gifted specialist, Cary assumed the role of Instructional Technology Specialist for the Forest Hills SchoolDistrict in Cincinnati, Ohio. Possessing a strong understanding of instructional design, she has created and lead innovative professional development experiences which focus on the integration of content, pedagogy and technology. She was instrumental in bringing BYOL to her district and continues to advocate for developing “next” practices of teaching and learning by leveraging the power of digital technologies to build strong networks of learning.

Primary belief: Learning, as we know it, is changing. The ability to create rich, transformative learning experiences through the use of digital technologies is at our finger tips.

We believe that technology, when used appropriately, can be a catalyst to transform teaching and learning.

Christine and Cary worked together for two years designing and implementing a "Bring Your Own Technology" initiative to their school district. From this experience, they have gained tremendous experienceDistricts throughout Ohio visited due to seeing the district's initiative in national publications. The implementation was far from perfect, but with each stage of growth has come knowledge and solutions that other districts shouldn't have to experience. Repurposing this knowledge as well as organizational leadership, process improvement drives Cary and Christine and acted as an impetus for the creation of Mind Shift.