Meet Suzy Travis who has worked at Assets in the High School since 2001, initially as a geometry teacher and since the 2009-10 school year as principal. Suzy and her husband Mike Travis are credited with initiating the School's of the Future project.
What do you value most about Assets School?
That's easy... the kids! "Always do what's best for kids" has been an Assets philosophy that I have respected and admired for almost a decade now. I do my best to filter every decision I make through this basic philosophy because above all else, I value our kids!
What is your goal for the current school year?
My first goal is to take advantage of current technology and leverage our strengths to expand our reach and connection with schools similar to Assets. Through collaborating with teachers and students on the mainland and throughout the world, I believe these connections will enhance professional development and help our students further develop their communications skills while becoming global citizens. As I continue my second year as principal, my goal is to grow my leadership and administrative skills. I am fortunate to have amazing mentors who support me every step of the way!
What drew you to be an educator?
I remember watching from the window as my brother and sister trotted off to school in the snow. I wanted to go too, more than anything, but I was only four and not even old enough for kindergarten. Before I had even had my first day of school, I knew it was something I was going to love. Those feelings about school have never really changed for me. Teaching, learning, and education have always been a part of who I am. I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher, and the path leading to my teaching experiences were always clear.
What is your book by your bedside? How do you stay current in your field?
Right now, I'm reading several books about observing classrooms and providing teachers with feedback. Paul also recommended, "Send in the Idiots: Stories from the Other Side of Autism," which as the title suggests, delves into the personal experiences of the author as well as several of his childhood classmates.
I also believe that reading is for pleasure...my favorite recent novel is "The Help," a great story about house maids in the south during segregation.
Over the past two years, I would attribute staying current in the field to completing a second Master's Degree in 2009, attending several mainland conferences including: IDA, NAIS and ISTE. I've also been heavily involved with the School's of the Future Initiative in Hawaii, and last summer I was invited to attend a leadership summit at Harvard in Boston. Through these experiences, I have become acquainted with many educational leaders across the nation.
