Patience Bertana is a passionate advocate for teachers and students in public education. She has spent the last 25 years in various roles from special education teacher, technology integration specialist, and instructional coach. She currently serves as the Coordinator of Innovation and Instructional Technology in West Northfield District #31. Patience is a true life-long learner and has earned three graduate degrees in Literacy, Instructional Technology, and Administration. Her research interests are focused on creativity and preventing burnout in educators. She believes that when we build creative and supportive learning environments, both students and teachers can excel. Her expertise focuses on instructional coaching, innovation, and creativity. When not in classrooms, you can find Patience in her home studio or at the baseball fields supporting her son. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, son, and rescue pup.