Each year, the National School Boards Association’s Technology Leadership Network (TLN) recognizes 20 emerging leaders in education technology. These individuals are singled out for championing technology initiatives that make a difference for students, teachers, school districts, and the greater education technology community. An annual national search identifies individuals who show the creativity and collaboration that embraces technology to enhance learning for students, inspire colleagues, transform operations and engage communities.
This year, Avoca West Elementary School third grade teacher Stephanie Rick was selected to be recognized as one of “20 to Watch” educators for 2010 at the annual National School Boards Association (NSBA) T+L Conference scheduled to be held in Phoenix, AZ, October 19 through 21. Mrs. Rick was nominated for this recognition by Avoca District Technology Coordinator Gail Soriano, who said, “Stephanie is the third grade team leader at her school, is passionate about technology in education and has championed many technology initiatives in our district.“ Mrs. Soriano adds, “She takes on new ideas and constantly looks for ways of connecting her students with things and people outside the walls of her classroom.” Some highlights of Mrs. Rick’s technology successes include: Having her students communicating with a class in England through Epals; helping plan a student blogging initiative called “Blog Wild” that ties into the curriculum; and having her students create movies and podcasts to help improve classroom and school-wide behavior. Superintendent Dr. Joseph M. Porto said, “It is quite an accomplishment for a classroom teacher to receive this particular recognition, since most individuals who are recognized tend to be technology specialists who work in the education field.”
In recognition of Mrs. Rick’s accomplishments, she will be presented with a certificate during the NSBA T+L Conference Networking Reception on Tuesday evening, October 19, at the Phoenix Convention Center. For the first time, each of the “20 to Watch” individuals will also receive an exciting gift of $3,000 in software products from a major vendor.
Over the past several years, two other Avoca faculty members were recognized by the NSBA as “20 to Watch” leaders in technology. Former Avoca District Technology Coordinator Christopher Brown was presented the award in 2007, and current District Technology Coordinator Gail Soriano received the recognition in 2008 when she worked as a technology specialist at Avoca West Elementary School. The District is proud to add Stephanie Rick to this nationally-recognized group of technology leaders.