Ms. Parker's journey from engineering to education is a testament to her resilience and dedication. After a successful 10-year career in manufacturing, she witnessed the evolving landscape of the industry due to globalization and decided it was time for a change. Her love for mathematics led her to UNC-Charlotte, where she pursued a master's degree in secondary education. From 2008 to 2019, she passionately taught math, sharing her expertise with students.
In 2019, an exciting opportunity arose when she became the Olympic High School technology facilitator. In this multifaceted role, she serves as the technology advisor, helpdesk, and digital tools expert for both students and teachers. Despite her advanced degrees in engineering and teaching, she needed to become NCDPI certified in Learning Design & Technology – Computer Education. This crucial certification became a reality with the invaluable support of a professional development grant from the Olympic High School Foundation.
Her timing couldn't have been better, as less than a year later, she would put her skills and certification to the test during the novel coronavirus pandemic. The shift to digital tools instead of textbooks placed Ms. Parker in high demand daily. What she treasures most about her role as the technology facilitator is the unique connection she forges with students, different from her classroom days. She blends her engineering background with her passion for teaching, offering students support that transcends their helpdesk needs.
Ms. Parker's professional growth is a testament to her unwavering commitment to continuous learning and adaptability in an ever-changing environment. The Olympic High School Foundation, in its mission to support teachers and facilitators like Ms. Parker, ensures that they can continue to make a profound impact on students' lives while advancing their own careers in education.
In addition to her role as a technology facilitator, Ms. Parker has become an integral part of the Olympic High School Foundation board, serving on the communications committee. Her unique perspective as a facilitator allows her to provide valuable insights into the needs of both teachers and students at Olympic. Simultaneously, she helps promote the resources and mission of the Olympic High School Foundation on campus and through various social media outlets.