About Paul Blankenship


About Me

I am a native of southeast Alabama with a passion for educational technology and innovation. My career focuses on leveraging technology to enhance education and inspire students to reach their full potential.

I currently serve as a Scrum Product Owner in a software company’s instructional design department. In this role, I apply agile methodologies to develop cutting-edge educational technologies that meet the highest quality and usability standards.

Educational Background

I began my academic journey with a B.A. in History and Religion/Philosophy from Samford University. My advanced education includes:

  • Master of Social Work in Health and Mental Health from Louisiana State University
  • Master of Education in Instructional Design and Educational Technology from the University of Florida

I also completed alternative certification in gifted education at LSU Shreveport and advanced my studies through graduate courses offered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.

Certifications in Teaching and Education

To support my professional growth as an educator, I have earned the following teaching certifications:

  • National Board Certification in Early Adolescent Social Studies
  • National Certified STEM Teacher

Professional Certifications and Licenses

I also hold the following professional certifications and licenses:

  • Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
  • Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)
  • Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
  • Professional Scrum Product Owner II (PSPO II)
  • Professional Scrum Master II (PSM II)
  • Google Project Management Certification
  • FAA UAS (Drone) Pilot’s License (Commercial)

Teaching Experience

I launched my teaching career in Louisiana and later transitioned to Alabama, where I taught a variety of subjects, including AP Macroeconomics, AP Government, Honors Economics, Sociology, AP Computer Science Principles, and Honors Government.

In 2021, I transitioned to virtual teaching, focusing on social studies and computer science through distance-learning tools like Zoom, strengthening my passion for innovative educational practices.

In 2023, I left teaching for a new career in instructional design as a Scrum Product Owner. I now work with a team of instructional designers at a software company. I enjoy the variety and challenge of project management using digital twins to build simulations.

Passion for Technology

I earned my A+ Certification as a computer technician in 2013 and helped configure 7,000 iPads for a district-wide initiative. I also presented “Minecraft in Geography” at the High Schools That Work conference, sharing my insights on integrating technology in education.

I continue to explore emerging technologies, including drone applications and agile methodologies for instructional design.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout my career, I have received the following awards:

  • Recognition of Excellence on Praxis II Social Studies Content Knowledge Test, perfect score
  • President’s Award of Excellence for Outstanding Civics Teacher, Louisiana Center for Law and Civic Education

Professional Philosophy

I believe in the power of technology to transform education and connect learners worldwide. I strive to collaborate with like-minded professionals to drive innovation in educational technology and instructional design.

I commit to learning, growing, and sharing my knowledge to inspire the next generation of educators and innovators.


Disclaimer: All opinions expressed on this site are my own, not those of my current or former employers.

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