Sonoma State University

• How to 'pivot' the way entrepreneurs do, making adjustments along the way toward reaching goals.  Almost every great innovator and entrepreneur finds that the initial plan requires adjustment as the work gets underway.  How can educators have that kind of flexibility and responsiveness in their environment without losing their way to the goal?  
• Be ready to question the norm.  Norms are the sometimes subtle 'ways fo doing things' that are often unspoken but can have tremendous influence on how we see things and the productivity of groups and individuals.  The ability to see and question the norm is a key skill of entrepreneurial thinkers.
• Consider different perspectives.  The skill to of being able to 'switch lenses' and view a situation from other perspectives can open up new approaches and ideas for problem solving.

• Tony Harris, Director, Northwest Prep Charter School, Santa Rosa
• Bonnie Raines, Teacher, Santa Rosa Charter School of the Arts

• Building the network--What are the elements of strong personal learning network.  How does one leverage digital tools to build their network
• Breaking down silos--it will be important to reach outside of your sphere to build connections outside of your silo to form a truly strategic network.  How do you engage the non-education community in your professional network?
• Accessing Resources--how can the network help you access financial, human and material resources, as well as the essential knowledge to make your plan a reality?
• Networked Collaboration--How to recognize and optimize opportunity for collaboration in a professional network?  What do you have to offer?  What can you expect in return from this dynamic connection?

• Kristin Swanson, a passionate learner, keynote speaker and the author of "Professional Learning in the Digital Age". She is also a founder of the EdCamp movement, adjunct professor at DeSales University, Google Certified Teacher. She has worked as a third grade teacher, RtI Building Leader and Teacher Trainer. She currently works for Bright Bytes to help people learn better using technology.
• Catlin Tucker, Google Certified Teacher, CUE Lead Learner, 9th and 10th grade English language arts teacher at Windsor High School in Sonoma County. She is the author of the book, "Blended Learning for Grades 4-12: Leveraging the Power of Technology to Create a Student-Centered Classroom"

Monday, September 23, 2013
OVERCOMING OBSTACLES, FAILING FORWARD

• Oscar Chavez, recently appointed Assistant Director of Human Services for the County of Sonoma, formerly Executive Director of the Community Action Partnership of Sonoma County. In both his previous work experience and in his current position, Oscar has dedicated himself to establishing strong and positive ties between the County's low wealth neighborhoods, public entities, and the business community in order to raise awareness about the growing education, health, and income disparities that exist in our communities.  He is equally committed to finding solutions that get at the root cause of poverty.