Today we’d like to introduce you to Patricia Brown.
Hi Patricia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was initially resistant to the idea of becoming a teacher, but my journey began as I assisted my mother, an elementary school teacher. Despite a teenage pledge to avoid teaching, I embraced it 19 years later, dedicating my life to improving children’s educational needs and environment. Growing up, my exposure to technology, thanks to my grandmother’s investment, ignited a passion that led to a thriving design business by the age of 14. Pursuing Business Information Systems in college, my involvement with youth led me to a dual major in Secondary Educational Technology. Overcoming challenges, I secured a technology grant, transforming my classroom with iMac computers and flip cameras. This endeavor aimed to bridge the gap in technology access, particularly for students in less affluent districts. Transitioning from a classroom teacher to a technology consulting business owner, I now advocate for equity and connections in education. My commitment is rooted in making a difference for all students, particularly those of color, and fostering equitable learning environments. Through my educational experiences, I was pleased to learn under very instrumental teachers who inspired and supported me. Like my mentors, I am confident that I will continue to play a pivotal role in the lives of others inside and outside of the classroom.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In 2001, a pivotal year for me, I graduated, got married, moved to Saint Louis, Missouri, had my first son, and started teaching at a school for academically gifted students in the St. Louis Public Schools. Initially, teaching “gifted” students intimidated me, but I discovered they either possessed extensive computer knowledge or struggled in substantive academic areas. Technology could support their learning by offering accurate and concise instructions for them to understand its real-world applications. Despite skepticism about the importance of teaching technology, I realized its potential for meaningful learning experiences, especially for at-risk children. Attending conferences and workshops, I gathered innovative ideas but faced challenges implementing them due to budget constraints. Determined to provide equal opportunities, I secured a $25,000 technology grant in 2009, enabling the purchase of iMac computers and flip cameras for my classroom. By creating a music video, we improved students’ learning experiences by fostering both content understanding and lifelong skills. This was the result of a conversation with a colleague. 22 years, 5 children, and several degrees later, I still believe in nurturing creativity. I aimed to integrate technology seamlessly into education, envisioning a future where it’s integral to every facet of learning.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us more about your business.
MsEdtechie Consultants LLC is an innovative company with a team of equity-minded educators dedicated to developing and implementing effective educational solutions to empower, elevate, and inspire educators and improve the educational experience for all learners. They support districts and businesses with various programming to meet their needs and specialize in equity, innovation, and technology.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is rooted in a transformative journey and a commitment to positively impacting education. Initially resistant to becoming a teacher, I’ve evolved into a dedicated educator over 22 years, focusing on improving children’s educational needs and environment. Success involves overcoming challenges, such as initial nervousness about teaching academically gifted students and facing skepticism about the importance of teaching technology. My vision of success extends beyond personal achievements, encompassing equitable access to technology for all students, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. The pivotal decision to secure a technology grant in 2009 reflects my determination to provide opportunities and access to students, demonstrating a commitment to overcoming obstacles for their benefit. Success, in my view, involves not only personal growth and learning but also creating a positive, inclusive, and innovative learning environment for students, fostering their creativity, and connecting education to real-world applications.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.msedtechie.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/msedtechie
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msedtechie/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/msedtechie
