Affton Teachers Receive Technology Innovation Grants

Five teachers in the Affton School District have received Technology Innovation Grants, allowing them to further integrate technology into their classrooms.

Awarded by the district’s Technology Department and Office of Curriculum and Instruction, teachers that had innovative technology ideas were required to submit a proposal for the devices they desired and support how the additional technology would maximize student learning in their classroom.

“We are excited to see the significant digital learning that will be generated in the classrooms, and the greater motivation for the students involved, as well as the teachers surrounding them,” said Dr. Robert Dillon, Director of Technology and Innovation. “This purposeful distribution of technology tools in classrooms throughout the district will help us assess the possibilities of additional use and deployment in the next school year.”

Receiving Technology Innovation Grants in 2013 are:

Karin Fleming, Director, Affton Early Childhood - (10) iPad Minis to be shared by all classrooms

“It is important that we enhance learning for our children in many different ways,” said Fleming. “Technology is integrated into the lives of this generation, so it’s only natural that we help them find digital resources to assist them.”

Jennifer Laue, 4th grade teacher, Gotsch Intermediate School - Classroom set of iPads

“The goal for having a classroom set of iPads includes establishing a life-long love of learning,” said Laue. “Technology fosters creativity and a strong work ethic among students and teachers. Using technology in the classroom allows students to show their talents and knowledge, as well as to practice foundational skills that are so important.

Alison Nixon, 6th grade math teacher, Rogers Middle School - (6) netbooks, (4) Macbook Air laptops, Gamesalad app, and updated SMART Board

“Learning will become much more individualized. I am excited to be able to reduce the amount of teacher-centered learning and instead create a learning environment that is student-centered and engaging,” said Nixon.

Judy Rethwisch, theater teacher, Affton High School - Theater technology cart

“We are partnering with a professor from St. Louis Univeristy, and utilizing Google SketchUp to give our students the opportunity to design sets, lighting and sound in a 3D format,” said Rethwisch.

Rob Walker, English teacher, Affton High School - Classroom set of Chromebooks

“I want to create a ‘classroom without walls,’” said Walker. “I want students to express themselves in an educated, responsible way that they are motivated to use. One that they see value in. I want them to collaborate with peers and experts inside and outside of the class at any time. I want my students to publish their work to the entire world and hopefully be an agent of change in their immediate future. All these goals and more are possible in a classroom where technology has transformed the way students learn.”