LEON — Following a nationwide search, three Iowa teachers have been selected as PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators for 2015. The program, now in its third year, recognizes tech-savvy K-12 educators who are serving as leaders in the education technology space.
The 2015 PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators program rewards 100 teachers from across the country who are incorporating digital media in classrooms to promote student engagement and achievement.
PBS LearningMedia received hundreds of applications from leading teachers throughout the U.S. and its territories. Judges selected the 100 educators based on submissions of videos and written essays that addressed how they are creatively using digital technology and tools in the classroom to drive student achievement.
The three teachers selected from Iowa include:
• Cindy Herren, Brookview Elementary, Waukee School District in West Des Moines
Herren is a K-5 technology teacher with a master’s degree in integrating technology in the classroom. This is her 15th year in education.
• Melissa Hill, Central Decatur High School in Leon
Hill is a high school English and psychology teacher, enhancing the lives of nearly 200 students a day with the use of technology.
• Audrey Sturtz, Manson Northwest Webster Jr/Sr High School in Manson
Sturtz is a high school science teacher who sparks excitement and curiosity within students on the various concepts of science they experience on a daily basis.
“Our PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators were selected for being tech-savvy educators with a passion for using digital technology and media, and for being leaders with a desire to empower their peers and share strategies around digital media integration,” said Terry Rinehart, director of education services for Iowa Public Television. “IPTV is proud to recognize them for embracing life-long learning, collaboration, inclusion and innovation. We look forward to having them represent IPTV and the entire state as they as continue to enhance their skills with these one-of-a-kind resources, tools and trainings from PBS LearningMedia.”
The 2015 PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators will receive year-long professional development opportunities that include virtual trainings, access to premium and exclusive resources from PBS LearningMedia Custom service, invitations to special events, and access to a free PBS TeacherLine professional development course. PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators will also receive ongoing support in their community from their local PBS member stations.
In addition, Herren of Brookview Elementary was chosen as one of the top 30 applicants to serve as leads of the program.
She will receive a trip to Philadelphia to participate in the 2015 PBS LearningMedia Digital Summit. She will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning, collaborate with her peers and hear from digital technology thought leaders. All Lead PBS Digital Innovators will also receive a Samsung Galaxy(R) tablet to continue their use of technology in the classroom.
For more information about Iowa Public Television, contact Susan Ramsey at 515-725-9703 or Susan.Ramsey@iptv.org.