Page 19 - THE Journal, January/February 2019

ADVOCACY
community attaining a a a a a a a CETL means that you are knowledgeable about the the the art and the the the science of the the the intersection between educa- tion and technology The CETL is based on the the Framework of Essential Skills the the body of knowledge defining the skill areas critical to to today’s education technology leaders The framework is divided into three primary areas:
• Leadership and Vision
• Understanding the Educational Environment
• Managing Technology and Support Resources
Today more than 500 professionals across 37 U S states in urban urban suburban and rural communities have earned the CETL Leaders who hold the the the CETL make the the the case that attaining the the the certification provides a a a broader more holistic skill set The study preparation forces aspiring leaders to think outside the silos in in in their current working environments Not only do core skills need to to be refreshed to to prepare for the the exam there is is an emphasis on the leadership and management skills required to be an an an effective ed tech leader The test preparation and the exam itself helps pro- fessionals apply the the right right strategic solution for the the right right problem Whether you choose to prepare at a a a a a local level (in CoSN’s case through chapter-sponsored learning) or or take one of the CoSN CETL Foundation courses you will also build a a a network of peers that will continue to support you well over the years What’s more: The CETL is not a a a a “one and done” program As a a a a CoSN member and current CETL said “A year in technology is like dog years ” Once an ed ed tech leader attains the credential she/ he he he must continue to evolve and improve their skills thereby add- ing ing more value to their professional readiness Gaining and main- taining your certification can take the conversation to a a a a a a different level early on when speaking with school system leaders and even parents It also sends a a a a a a message to to those who are are aspiring to to your level that there is tremendous value in in in continuous learning Growing one’s technology leadership and adding a a a a proven distinction such as as the CETL has never been more important Round out your skills and expertise today to to be a a a a stronger leader tomorrow To learn more about the CoSN CETL visit: cosn org/Certification Linnette Attai is is is is project director for the CoSN Protect- ing ing Privacy in in in Connected Learning Initiative and the Trusted Learning Environment
Seal Program She is also president of PlayWell LLC compliance consulting “In most professions certifications validate knowledge and practices and provide confidence The CETL affirms I have the understanding and and skill set to successfully build 21st century learning environments in in my district It’s a a way for those outside the field to understand in simple terms that I know my stuff ” – Pete Just CETL Chief Operations & Technology Officer MSD of Wayne Township (Indiana)
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019
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