Business & Information Technology Colleagues:

Now, more than ever, it is essential for educators to add value to our Business & Information Technology programs.  Funding is being cut in all areas of CTE and elective programs are in competition with core classes throughout many districts.  I urge all of you to step up and find ways to show your community, your administration, and your colleagues how valuable Business & Information Technology is for our students.  Get involved, update your curriculum, serve on committees, take advantage of professional development opportunities, mentor, or advise.  If you believe in your program, promote it! Communicate the wonderful things you do in class and with your student organizations (like FBLA and DECA) with your community, parents, and even your school board.

Are you using the same curriculum you developed 10 years ago?  Take the time to update it, to integrate 21^st century learning skills like:

• · Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  · Collaboration Skills
  · Adaptability, Initiative, and Entrepreneurialism
  · Effective Communication Skills (Oral and Written)
  · Synthesis and Information Analysis
  · Curiosity and Imagination
  · Global Citizenship

With lessons that include:

• · Project Based Learning
  · Student Centered and Research Driven Activities
  · Active Learning Skills
  · Interdisciplinary Objectives
  · Student Choice
  · Authentic Assessments

Attending workshops, conferences, and seminars allow us to share ideas, collaborate with other professionals, learn from each other, and rejuvenate our excitement for being in the Business & Information Technology field.  Joining a professional organization like WBEA provides us with many of those opportunities.  Your WBEA Executive Board is continually working on finding ways to add value to your membership in our organization as well.  We want to provide you with many avenues to network, collaborate, and share resources and ideas.  Our membership includes elementary and secondary (middle and high school) teachers as well as post-secondary (university and technical school) instructors who have a wealth of expertise to share.  Take advantage of that expertise!

The definition of value:  Relative worth, merit, or importance.  Find a way to make your program priceless!

Michelle McGlynn
WBEA President, 2011-12
Waunakee Community School District
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