My Tech Toolbelt

MTT033| Learning like Finland, a Principal’s observation - Nicole Johnson Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Join a Principal's journey in going to Finland to observe their school system. Nicole Johnson is an Elementary School Principal from Los Angeles, California.  She was selected to join a group of Principals from the Los Angeles area to go to Finland to observe how their school system is run, based on the book, “Teach Like Finland”. Nicole received her Bachelor’s in Communication Studies from Cal State Long Beach.  While in school she supported herself by working as a nanny for a special needs child.  Upon graduation she applied for and was hired as the 3rd grade teacher of St. Aloysius School.  Having grown up in a small town, adjusting to life in an inner city was a bit of a struggle for Nicole; however St. Aloysius School eventually worked its way into her heart.  While serving as a teacher, she received her Master’s in Education, with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University. She later received a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, and a Master’s in Education from Loyola Marymount University.  After having served as the 3rd grade teacher for five years, she was asked to step into the position of principal. She reluctantly accepted the position due to her limited experience, and the fact that she had newborn twins at home. However, she has since served as principal of St. Aloysius School for 11 years, during which time she has increased enrollment by nearly 30% and has received over a million dollars in grants and renovations.  She has also restructured the educational system to make the curriculum more student-centered and student-driven, which includes the integration of Blended Learning and STEM pedagogical practices. Nicole is currently completely the ISLA program at Loyola Marymount University, after which she will receive an Administrative Credential and a Masters in Administration. Nicole has three children.   Contact: Nicole Johnson Email: n.johnson@staloysiusla.org   Items mentioned in Episode 33: Kiva Learning Scoop   Teach Like Finland Killing Lincoln Killing Kennedy   We would love to hear from you!  Let us know if this format is helpful to you!  Is there technology out there that you would like us to cover in one of our episodes?     Email us Shannon@MyTechToolbelt.com Brenda@MyTechToolbelt.com   If you enjoyed this episode, tell a friend, and SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TO THE SHOW!  Please share this podcast with someone you think might benefit.   What’s in your Tech Toolbelt? www.mytechtoolbelt.com Twitter: @mytechtoolbelt   Instagram: My Tech Toolbelt   You can listen to our podcast on: Apple Podcasts Google Play Music Spotify or listen here Music: http://www.bensound.com/royalty-free-music