Digital Storytelling with NELA Cohort VI

written by Paige Holmes, NELA Cohort 2.0 Graduate Assistant

As we drove off the ferry onto Ocracoke Island, the beautiful setting and the warm greetings from NELA family were an indication that this weekend retreat would be as amazing as we thought it might be. On September 29, 2016, NELA Cohort VI traveled to the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) in Ocracoke, NC for a Digital Storytelling specialized training to learn about domains of leadership, connect to each other, dive into self-reflection, and practice the powerful leadership tool of storytelling.

Through learning walks, creative use of technology, group discussions, and presentations, NELA Fellows were challenged to reflect on their own stories and why they chose to become school leaders. Many Fellows viewed the training as a life-changing experience that helped them grow immensely and become closer with their cohort members.

Digital Storytelling 2016 Feedback from Cohort VI Fellows:

“Storytelling gives insight to the personal road map of an individual’s life. Through this lens, you can better understand and relate to their experiences. As leaders we have to motivate the hearts and the minds of those on our faculty. Storytelling is a tool that can really bring people together.”

“Digital Storytelling will give me the tools to not only share my own story but to listen and appreciate others’ stories. Learning about everyone’s different life path proves there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to living life, nor a one size fits all approach to leading.”

“The Digital Storytelling Retreat offered unprecedented self-reflection and self-realization. Prior to the retreat, I was unable to articulate my reasoning for joining the program other than, “it seemed like the next logical step.” Through careful and guided reflection, conversations with mentors and cohort members and close examination of my past, I was able to arrive at my “why.” Because of this realization, I feel more purposeful in my quest to become a leader and have a much clearer vision of the type of leader I aspire to be with time.“

“The mask that you see on the outside may not show all of the struggles a person is going through. Remembering that idea as a principal is very important while dealing with staff, students and parents.”

“Without digging deep into who you who really are as person, you can never become an effective leader. This training allowed me to realize that no matter what comes my way in life, I am equipped to handle it, and just as the sun rises, I too will rise, no matter what adversity I face.”

“Digital Storytelling was a life changing experience. It showed me that others have experienced trials and tribulations, yet they have overcome many obstacles as well. All people are the sum of their experiences in life. We never know what pain and sadness is hiding behind the masks which we all wear everyday – the mask which we all wear to work, at home, and in the community. However when you put down the mask, you can be who you were created to be. This allows others to be inspired and helps people to draw closer to you because they see you a genuine person.”

“Letting down your guard and finally just accepting that you are who you are, flaws and all, stimulates growth in unimaginable ways.”

“Without digging deep into who you who really are as person, you can never become an effective leader.”

“For me, Digital Storytelling was an eye opening experience. I knew my cohort was close, but this made us even closer. I learned you truly have no clue what a person has gone through in life, what makes them tick. This is so important in being able to work with others and bring out the best in each other. I personally was happy to let others in on who I am as a person and why I have become the person I am today. Allowing ourselves to bring our guard down for a moment and let others in was such a release. I have a newfound closeness and respect for everyone in my cohort. It was a unique experience that I am extremely grateful for!”

“The Digital Storytelling weekend really allowed a deep reflection within myself. I was able to spend time in my own head about me. Much of our time as educators is spent helping others while sometimes forgetting to take care of the most important person: yourself. I learned that although I have been through trials in my life, those trials made me the person I am and leader that I strive to be. The greatest realization from the retreat was understanding that what you see on the outside may not be the whole story. Everyone has a story and unless you want someone to tell it for you, you need to tell it yourself.”