Always A Learner, Forever a Student I am just a few weeks away from earning my Master’s degree in Education with a Math and Science concentration from Michigan State University. As the program is quickly coming to a close, I have taken the time to reflect upon the learning I have achieved through this program, as well as where I see myself as a professional going forward. Some of my goals to pursue are to continue to grow in my understanding and implementation of the new science standards, the Next Generation Science Standards through inquiry based laboratories and activities, as well as incorporate technology into my science classroom. In addition, throughout my degree program, I developed a true appreciation for mathematics education, and I have decided that I would like to pursue a cross endorsement in mathematics 7-12. This will be an exciting new adventure in my professional growth! With the states having finally adopted the Next Generation Science Standards, this is an exciting (and nerve racking) time to be an educator in science. With the adoption of the new standards comes a time of much transition and curriculum modifications. Every year, the Connecticut STEM conference is held at the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford. Several members of our science department were able to attend this conference this year. Although I was not able to attend this year, I plan to attend the following school year. The conference provides an opportunity for educators to discuss classroom ideas and innovations for incorporating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education into the classroom through workshops, exhibits and presentations. STEM based educator directly aligns with the NGSS, and this conference will be an exciting opportunity to further my education of the NGSS standards and STEM based teaching. In addition (and conjunction) to the NGSS and STEM based education, I would like to improve on the depth and frequency of technology use in my classroom. Our library media specialists hold an annual Google Summit over the weekend to teach educators how to use the many Google platforms in our classrooms. Through my master’s degree program I have also learned how to read and write my own educational blogs, and I will continue to practice the use of blogs in my professional development. Finally, I have realized a passion for mathematics and mathematics education, and I plan to attend Southern Connecticut State University to take the mathematics credits that I need to apply for my cross endorsement in mathematics 7-12. I am looking forward to taking a methods course as part of this learning, that teaches students the methods of teaching 7-12 mathematics in the classroom, and making mathematics accessible to students. I also will plan to attend the ATOMIC (Associated Teachers of Mathematics in Connecticut) conference for math educators in Connecticut. This conference focuses on 21st century education and bridging engagement and achievement. I am very fortunate to have had this opportunity to complete my Master’s degree at Michigan State University. It has helped me to grow as an educator in the areas of classroom management, technology integration, and STEM/ inquiry based teaching and learning. In addition, this program has opened up my mind and heart to earning a cross endorsement in mathematics- I am excited for this new learning opportunity.