Get to know us better! Eduspire's top-notch instructors combine experience, skill, insights, and a passion for education.
7/11/19: Spotlight on...Mike Bruckner
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Mike Bruckner. Read Mike's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Three years. We got connected through PETE&C."
"Throughout my career in education, I have enjoyed a number of diverse academic and professional experiences that have shaped me as a teacher, instructional technology coach and lifelong learner. In my current role, I have the privilege of supporting the professional learning needs of 400+ teachers and staff. Our collaborations, no matter how big or small, focus on meeting the needs of all students and finding the best intersection of curricular standards, sound pedagogical choices and digital tool selections."
"Learning with and from passionate and highly-skilled educators who are seeking to improve their craft!"
"Whichever one I need at that moment."
"Mint chocolate chip."
10/4/18: Spotlight on...Allison Mackley
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Allison Mackley. Read Allison's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"This will be my first course with Eduspire. Years ago I took the iPads in Education course. I also teach with several Eduspire instructors and hear about their positive experiences interacting with other educators in their classes."
"I am a National Board Certified Teacher Librarian, an Instructional Technology Coach and K-12 Library Department Chair at Hershey High School in Derry Township School District. I earned my undergraduate degree from Penn State University, an M.A. in Writing from Northeastern University and M.L.I.S. from the University of Pittsburgh, and an M.S. in Educational Administration from the University of Scranton. I earned my PDE Online Instruction Program PK-12 Teaching Endorsement and Virtual Online Teaching Certificate from the University of Pennsylvania. I serve on the PDE Governor’s Advisory Council on Library Development and as the President for the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association. In addition, I earned the distinction of PA Keystone Technology Innovator (class of 2010)."
"As this will be the first course I teach, I can only anticipate that I will love working with educators who are excited about leveraging technology to engage students in creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking."
"Right now, Canvas is my favorite ed-tech tool. As a learning management system, I can integrate so many other apps, tools and strategies within my instruction in an organized and meaningful way."
"Chocolate Peanut Butter."
9/7/18: Spotlight on...Bridget Belardi
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Bridget Belardi. Read Bridget's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"5.5 years. I began as an assistant in the iPads in Education course and then taught it as a hybrid class for a few years."
"I am a media specialist at Foster Elementary School in the Mt. Lebanon School District in Pittsburgh, PA. I am also a member of the Leadership Council for the Discovery Educator Network. I'm a Level 2 Google Certified Teacher and was a member of the Google Geo Teachers Institute. Past awards include: Mt. Lebanon Technology Integrator of Distinction, PAECT Teacher of the Year, and University of Pittsburgh's Outstanding Student."
"I enjoy working with teachers from different grade levels and subject areas throughout the country. And also teaching in my pajamas."
"I like using HyperDocs for discussions and Kahoot! for quick quizzes."
"Graham Central Station."
6/26/18: Spotlight on...Ken Kay
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Ken Kay. Read Ken's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"About four years."
"I was a Public School Technology Specialist for 30 Years. Presently I am an Adjunct Professor at The University of Pennsylvania, The University of the Arts, and Chestnut Hill College. I have an MS in Instructional Media from Rosemont College, and I am also certified as a Google Specialist and a Library of Congress Teacher of Primary Sources."
"The students are open to implement new instructional strategies and applications. Discussion groups provide a collaborative learning network."
"Nearpod because of its teacher to student interaction capabilities, especially formative assessment to address each student's personal needs. Edulastic, which provides over sixteen diverse formative assessment tools."
"Butter almond."
5/17/18: Spotlight on...Patty McGinnis
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Patty McGinnis. Read Patty's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Since 2017."
"I met the friendly Eduspire folks at a PETE&C conference and got inspired! I teach the new courses Grant Writing and Reading, Writing, and Speaking in Science."
"I am a National Board Certified Teacher with over 25 years of teaching experience. My interests include the use of technology in supporting science practices. I am a frequent presenter at science conferences, I've authored several articles related to science teaching, and I currently serve as editor of "Science Scope," the National Science Teacher Association’s award-winning journal for middle school science educators. I am also the co-author of "Be a Winner! A Science Teacher’s Guide to Writing Successful Grant Proposals." My educational background includes an Ed. D. in Educational Technology and graduate degrees in the fields of Biology, Education, and Educational Technology."
"The convenience of online teaching and learning."
"I really like using TES for organizing my teaching materials and pushing out lessons for a flipped classroom approach."
"Salted Caramel."
4/26/18: Spotlight on...Dayna Laur
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Dayna Laur. Read Dayna's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"This is my first semester with Eduspire."
"I used to teach with Nathan Hammond, the Executive Director of Eduspire! I teach Authentic Connections for Project Based Learning."
"I'm a veteran social studies teacher with teaching credentials that include Advanced Placement U.S. Government, U.S. History, Global Studies, and Law. I also have extensive co-teaching experience in a special education inclusion classroom. I have a B.A. in History from Virginia Tech, an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Pittsburgh, and an M.S. in 21st Century Teaching and Learning from Wilkes University. I am currently enrolled in Sam Houston State University's Ed.D. program in Instructional Systems Design and Technology. I am a two-time National Board Certified teacher. I am also a co-founder of Project ARC, a global consulting company that partners with school organizations to develop authentic, relevant, and complex learning experiences for students. In addition to coaching teachers, administrators, and technology leaders, I also partner with businesses to develop connections between schools and the community to create authentic learning opportunities that connect deeply with the curriculum. I am the author of Authentic Learning Experiences: A Real-World Approach to Project Based Learning and Developing Natural Curiosity through PBL: Five Strategies for the PreK-3 Classroom. "
"The ability to personalize the course for the needs of each participant. As their questions arise, I have the ability to tailor material, discussions, and virtual meetings to support them. The online course really allows me to gather formative assessment data in order to inform my own instruction."
"Primary Pad is such an exciting way to communicate and collaborate through the development of creative ideas. It has been around for years, but it is still one of my favorites!"
"Banana custard from The Meadows."
3/22/18: Spotlight on...Traci Landry
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Traci Landry. Read Traci's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"About 5 years."
"Through Jim Gates and the iPad course via PETE&C presentations. I teach Google Tools for Educators and Infrastructure and Technology Planning for Today’s Schools."
"I have been in education 24 years, all of those years working in the Derry Township School District. I spent most of my 15-year tenure as a classroom teacher at the primary level. For 5 years, I served the district as an Instructional Technology Specialist. Currently, I hold the Director of Instructional Technology position for Derry Township and teach an adjunct instructor for Eduspire & Wilson University. I hold an Undergraduate Degree from Penn State University, A Master’s in Educational Administration from Temple University and earned my Instructional Technology Specialist certification from Penn State University. I also hold certifications as an Elementary Principal and in K-12 Business and Computer Technology. I am a certified trainer in the following areas: Everyday Mathematics, Co-Teaching Model, Charlotte Danielson's Domains of Professional Practice, APL Instructional Strategies, Promethean Software, Second Step and FOSS/GEMS Science. I am currently working to become certified in Blended and Online Course Development. My training sites can be found at TechieTeachrs.blogspot.com. All of my training and presentation information can be found there. I have presented at numerous conferences including several years and presentations at PETE&C and one presentation in 2011 at ISTE. I am extremely passionate about integrating technology into education. I believe that all technology use in education should be founded in good instructional practices. Your instructional goals should always drive how technology is integrated into your classroom."
"I really love the pracitcality of all the Eduspire classes. I primarily teach online courses right now and I love the anytime, anywhere learning option."
"Well, we use Canvas as our LMS so I love that, and G Suite for Education (since I teach that course)."
"Black Raspberry."
12/8/17: Spotlight on...Claire Signorello
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Claire Signorello. Read Claire's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Since March 2016."
"I took the iPads in Education course and knew I wanted to be an instructor for Eduspire! I have taught the iPads in Education, Google Tools for Educators, and the Chromebooks in Education courses."
"I teach high school mathematics at Lackawanna Trail located in Factoryville, Pennsylvania. I began my teaching career there in 1996. Over the course of my 21-year teaching career, I have had numerous professional opportunities outside of the classroom to enrich my abilities to educate students within the classroom. Some of those opportunities have included NASA teacher camp, the United States Marine Corp Educators Workshop, a Johns Hopkins Talented Youth Summer Program Instructor, a Princeton Review SAT Prep Instructor, a Keystone Technology Summit Innovator attendee, and a grant writer/recipient. I have recently become a Google Certified Educator. I've participated on the Lackawanna Trail High School's Differentiated Instruction Planning team, have coached a variety of sports teams, and I've been an advisor for various clubs and classes. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education from the University of Scranton and my Master of Science degree in Classroom Technology from Wilkes University."
"My favorite thing about teaching Eduspire classes is that the material is actually stuff teachers will use in their classrooms! I've taken many graduate level courses that have no practical application in the classroom and I hated that. Every Eduspire class I have taken has provided me with tools I can apply to enhance my teaching!"
"I love EdPuzzle! It allows me to create a formative assessment that is interesting and engaging for my students. I can pick what content (video) to use and add my own questions based on my students' needs and abilities."
"Soft serve vanilla from Harding's Dairy Bar!"
11/14/17: Spotlight on...Dennis Albertson
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Dennis Albertson. Read Dennis's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"3+ years."
"I was recommend by Missy Halcott and then recruited by Andy (Rishel, Relationship Manager). I teach Digital Storytelling."
"My bio on the Eduspire webpage says it best:" https://www.eduspire.org/userprofile/instructorbio/3749
"Being able to integrate technology with pedagogy then share it with other educators."
"Smashing SoundTrap, WeVideo, and Screencastify."
"Sara's Creamery Death by Chocolate."
10/14/17: Spotlight on...Molly Neal
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Molly Neal. Read Molly's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"1 and 1/2 years."
"I met Andy (Rishel, Relationship Manager) through my sister, who is a tech coach, when he mentioned to her that they were looking for a math teacher to teach a course on using technology in the mathematics classroom. I teach EDU952: Tech in Secondary Math."
"I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Ed - Mathematics and my Master's Degree in Instructional Technology from Penn State. I have been teaching math in the State College Area School District for 20 years. I started out in 8th grade middle school math and am now teaching Pre-calc and Life Skills consumer math in the high school. I continue to strive to incorporate technology into my classroom when it is appropriate. I consider myself a life-long learner so when I teach the course, I also learn so much from the course takers."
"All the sharing of ideas that happens in the course."
"EDpuzzle for my flipped classroom and Edulastic for my formative assessments."
"Penn State Creamery Black Raspberry Frozen Yogurt."
9/7/17: Spotlight on...Missy Halcott
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Missy Halcott. Read Missy's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"5 years."
"I did some internship hours with Sue Sheffer during TechItU and was given the opportunity to create a course following my internship. I have been working for Eduspire ever since. I am teaching Tech Integration, LMS, and Google Tools for Educators."
"I am a middle school technology integrator at West York Area Middle School, a 2010 Keystone Technology Innovator, and a 2015 Keystone Star. Previously, I have served as a K-5 technology integrator, and a 5th, 3rd, and 6th grade teacher at West York. I earned my bachelors in Elementary Education from Shippensburg University, a Master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Penn State, and an Instructional Technology certificate and Masters from Harrisburg University."
"I love connecting and learning alongside educators. Teaching for Eduspire has enabled me to grow my PLN. I love when I am working with a teacher who has had a prior adverse relationship with tech and I can scaffold instruction and support them in a way that allows them to feel more confident and ready to implement instructional media in their classrooms."
"I am a huge fan of G Suite and I love any tool that can empower students to create and connect."
"Ben and Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch."
5/31/17: Spotlight on...Dianne Krause
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Dianne Krause. Read Dianne's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"One year."
"I am a certified Instructional Technology Specialist working as an embedded Technology Coach for the Wissahickon School District in Ambler, Pennsylvania in support of their 21st Century Teaching & Learning Laptop Initiative. Also an MIE Expert and MIE Master Trainer, I work with teachers, administrators, students, and parents to ensure that the technology available is used efficiently, effectively, and in coordination with progressive and innovative lesson design and instructional practices. I have presented conference sessions and workshops at ISTE and other local and online conferences, districts and organizations. You can visit my professional wiki and blog — Dianne's Digital Discoveries, or follow me on Twitter: @diannekrause."
"The "students" (teachers) who are all lifelong learners wanting to continue learning about technology and innovative teaching practices."
"OneNote."
"Chocolate!"
5/10/17: Spotlight on...Kerri Schegan
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Kerri Schegan. Read Kerri's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Four years."
"Diane Quinn, my school's curriculum coordinator, recommended me to Eduspire when the company was looking to begin offering on-site courses. I started out by facilitating the Learning Management Systems course with Brenda Boyer. Then, I had the opportunity to facilitate the iPads in Education course with Greg Mazurek. Most recently, I have run three consecutive sessions of the Google Tools for Educators course. I am also looking forward to offering the Common Core Elementary Math course online this summer!"
"I am in my twelfth year teaching for the Kutztown Area School District. I taught three years of second grade and nine years of fourth grade, all at Kutztown Elementary School. When I was working on my reading specialist degree at Kutztown University, I started taking technology courses as my electives, and suddenly I found myself becoming the "go-to-girl" in my building for all things tech. I discovered Eduspire's courses after finishing my master's degree, and they were a great way to advance my interest in technology."
"I love helping teachers discover new technologies or new ways of doing things that will improve what they do in their own classrooms. Seeing teachers get excited about something they will share with their class is as exciting for me as seeing kids have those 'aha' moments."
"I have eight iPads in my classroom that I won grants for. We use them on a daily basis. The app we probably make most use of is iMovie. We create how-to videos in writing class, book trailers in reading class, and commercials for popular destinations in PA for our research projects."
"Mint chocolate chip — on a pretzel cone!"
4/24/17: Spotlight on...Matt Heckmann
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Matt Heckmann. Read Matt's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"This is my first year."
"I met representatives from Eduspire at the 2016 KTI Summit. I reconnected with some of them at EdCamp Pittsburgh in the Fall of 2016, at Fox Chapel Area High School. After talking with some course instructors, I was excited to connect with Eduspire to start a course on Formative Assessment! I currently teach the course Effective Formative Assessment and Technology."
"I'm currently an Instructional Technology Integrator for the North Allegheny School District. Prior to my current position, I was a 6th grade classroom teacher in Fairfax County Public Schools in Northern Virginia. I have a passion for integrating technology into the classroom in order to enhance and transform the learning environment. My specialties include formative assessment pedagogy, the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, the SAMR model, and instructional technology tools. I look forward to working with all teachers, to help them create meaningful teaching and learning opportunities in the classroom."
"I love connecting with educators from across the nation! Collaborating with each other is one of the greatest tools that teachers have available to them."
"I have 2 tools that I use all of the time! Nearpod and Quizlet Live. Both are great tools to take any lesson to the next level."
"Chocolate-Chip Cookie Dough."
3/29/17: Spotlight on...Missy Halcott
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Missy Halcott. Read Missy's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"5 years."
"I did some internship hours with Sue Sheffer during TechItU and was given the opportunity to create a course following my internship. I have been working for Eduspire ever since. I teach Tech Integration, Learning Management Systems, and Google Tools for Educators."
"I'm a middle school technology integrator at West York Area Middle School, as well as a 2010 Keystone Technology Innovator and a 2015 Keystone Star. Previously, I have served as a K-5 technology integrator and 5th, 3rd, and 6th grade teacher at West York. I earned my bachelors in Elementary Education from Shippensburg University, a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Penn State, and an Instructional Technology certificate and master's from Harrisburg University."
"I love connecting and learning alongside educators. Teaching for Eduspire has enabled me to grow my PLN. I love when I am working with a teacher who has had a prior adverse relationship with tech and I can scaffold instruction and support them in a way that allows them to feel more confident and ready to implement instructional media in their classrooms."
"I am a huge fan of G Suite and I love any tool that can empower students to create and connect."
"Ben and Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch."
3/8/17: Spotlight on...Molly Neal
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Molly Neal. Read Molly's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"One year."
"My sister introduced me to Andy Rishel (Eduspire's Relationship Manager), who was looking for a math teacher to teach a class. I teach EDU 952: Tech in Secondary Math."
"I earned my BA at Penn State University in Secondary Education — Mathematics. I also earned my M.Ed. at Penn State University in Educational Technology Integration. I have been teaching middle level and secondary level mathematics in the State College Area School District since 1997. I LOVE math and am always looking for ways to develop my students' understanding and motivation in the classroom. I live in State College with my family. My son, Hunter, is a senior at Penn State majoring in IST/SRA. My daughter, Hope, is in 8th grade."
"I always learn something about what technology is available for math teachers or a better way to use technology in my classroom from the students in the course, which supports my goal of being a lifelong learner."
"EDpuzzle and goformative.com."
"Cookies & Cream Frozen Yogurt."
2/24/17: Spotlight on...Arlin Roth
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Arlin Roth. Read Arlin's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Since 2015."
"A teacher provided my name to Eduspire for consideration as an instructor. I teach Chromebooks in Education and Google Tools for Educators."
"I am the Instructional Technology Specialist for Bellefonte Area School District. I began my career as a middle school science teacher and also taught biology and other high school science courses. A few years ago, Bellefonte made the move to Google Apps for Education. One of my primary responsibilities is working with teachers and students to effectively use apps and sites for teaching and learning. I enjoy removing barriers that make using technology frustrating. I also work with the district’s instructional technology coordinators and instructional technology coaches to identify needs, plan training sessions, and deliver professional learning. I am a Google for Education Certified Trainer and I first served as a facilitator for the Google Tools for Educators course during the spring of 2015. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two daughters, working in my yard and garden and cutting, splitting, and burning firewood."
"Working 1-on-1 with teachers to use technology resources to meet a specific need and to find solutions to problems."
"G Suite for Education — Do I have to choose just one?"
"Chocolate."
2/8/17: Spotlight on...Mara Linaberger
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Mara Linaberger. Read Mara's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Almost two years!"
"When I found out that Jim Gates was teaching an iPad course through Eduspire I looked into the company. The rest is history! I have written three online courses for Eduspire which I also teach each term. They are: Inquiry-Based Learning, Digital Portfolios, and The Mindful Classroom."
"I am a passionate, life-long learner, artist, technologist, and adventurer. Having taught in K-5 settings for 17 years, trained teachers, served as a district administrator, and most recently having taught in a 1-room-schoolhouse on an island 23 miles out to sea, I've seen a lot in the field of education. Now consulting full-time, writing coursework for online universities, and collaborating with communities to consider new options for technology-infused learning, I've found my authentic learning path as an educational entepreneur. Some of my specialized skills include: online teaching & learning, emerging technologies (e.g. web 2.0 tools, wikis, blogs, podcasting, etc.), inquiry, creativity, mentoring, grant writing, project management, writing for publication, and editing."
"I have built all my courses to acknowledge the powerful motivation that teachers have to create their own pathways. I love that Eduspire has created a place where I can offer inquiry-based coursework to teachers to help them get the most out of their 4 weeks of work as possible!"
"It's a toss-up between my MacBook Air and my iPhone. Both have their place in my daily routines and work. The iPhone keeps me connected and aware of incoming information, while the MacBook gives me an incredible platform for content creation and communication."
"It depends on the time of the year. In the fall I love pumpkin, in the winter I crave peppermint-stick. Year round though, I am always happy with French vanilla!"
1/25/17: Spotlight on...Alicen Hoy
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Alicen Hoy. Read Alicen's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"2 years."
"I took the iPad class and was later asked to help assist with the same class occurring in my area. My teaching with Eduspire took off from there! I currently teach Chromebooks in Education (online and face-to-face)."
"I have been involved in education for 10 years: 7 as a high school Social Studies teacher (Avon Grove High School and Dauphin County Technical School) and the past 3 years as an Instructional Technology Coach at DCTS. I received my bachelor's degree from the University of Delaware and my master's degree from Boise State University. I am currently taking time off from school to raise our 7-month old daughter!"
"I love working with teachers to show them how technology can make their classroom more engaging for students while also helping them, as professionals, complete various aspects of their jobs. Just as students get that light bulb that goes off when they understand a new concept, teachers have the same thing and I love to see that happen!"
"Schoology. It is such a user friendly LMS for both teachers and students!"
"Moosetracks! :)"
1/4/17: Spotlight on...Katie Bordner
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Katie Bordner. Read Katie's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"I taught my first course in the fall of 2015."
"I connected with Andy Rishel (Relationship Manager) through EdCampPGH. I currently teach EDU 951: Tech in World Language Studies."
"This is my 11th year teaching students Spanish. I've taught in Chicago and Pittsburgh. I am a founding organizer of EdCampPGH. I am part of the Remake Learning community that connects in-school and out-of-school learning experiences for youth in Pittsburgh. I am a Level 2 Google Certified Educator and have led professional development in my school as well as presented in regional and international conferences."
"My school has a tiny World Language department (it's just me and another part-time instructor) so I love learning about how different teachers do things in their schools and classes! As we connect and share ideas it helps expose me to different ideas to try with my own students!"
"In the class students love Duolingo, Quizlet and Kahoot! As a workflow tool I love how Google Classroom, Doctopus, and Goobric allow me to organize, monitor, and give feedback on student work electronically."
"Mint Chocolate Chip, but if we're also open to gelato then Pistachio!"
12/15/16: Spotlight on...Aileen Hower
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Dr. Aileen Hower. Read Aileen's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Two years."
"I got connected with Eduspire through Penn State York. I teach the Eduspire course 'Reading Pedagogy (Across Disciplines)'."
"I am the K-12 Literacy/ESL Supervisor for South Western School District in York County, Pennsylvania. I coordinate the Eduspire and Penn State York Summer Literacy Institutes and teach graduate-level reading courses for Cabrini University and Eduspire. In addition to teaching, I am the Vice President for the Keystone State Reading Association and Conference Chair for the KSRA 50th Annual Conference in 2017."
"The students are top quality."
"Pear Deck."
"Rainbow Sherbert."
11/29/16: Spotlight on...Lisa Sands
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Lisa Sands. Read Lisa's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"One semester."
"I worked with Sue Sheffer when she served as the tech supervisor of my school district. She reached out to me about the possibility of joining the teaching staff. I currently teach "Tech in Secondary English."
"Bachelor's in Secondary Ed. English/Language Arts, Master's of Liberal Arts w/ focus in Literature, Master's in Teaching and Learning in the 21st Century, National Board of Professional Teaching Standards certified teacher."
"Getting to collaborate and share ideas with colleagues from across the state."
"I have to say Google Docs, or better yet the entire Google suite — I love that students can collaborate on the same document."
"Mint chocolate chip, in a pretzel cone!"
11/9/16: Spotlight on...Jason Russo
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Jason Russo. Read Jason's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"1 year."
"Through educators at a conference. I teach the Eduspire course, Teaching the Holocaust."
"I'm a social studies teacher and Holocaust educator, currently serving as a Master Teacher for the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh, as well as adjunct Professor for a year-long Holocaust class through Seton Hill. I'm a member of the PA Department of Education Task Force to implement Act 70 Law, The Holocaust and Genocide Studies education bill. I began teaching Holocaust classes in public high school in the year 2000. Currently I am writing Holocaust Education curriculum to be published for the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh.
In 2014 I coordinated Echoes and Reflections, a Pittsburgh-area Holocaust education workshop at Rochester High School. I've been a presenter on the topic of the Holocaust, and I taught a workshop at the International Holocaust Education Conference at Yad Vashem, in Jerusalem, Israel (where I also completed a summer institute in 2009. In 2008 I completed a Holocaust study tour of Poland, and in 2007 I completed a course at Columbia University for the Jewish Foundation for the Righteous Alfred Lerner Fellow program."
"I like meeting new people and teaching what I enjoy."
"My phone!"
"Peanut butter."
10/21/16: Spotlight on...Wes Ward
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Wes Ward. Read Wes's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"For 2 years."
"I taught with Nathan Hammond at Central York High School. I currently teach Writing Pedagogy Across Disciplines (formerly All Teachers Can Teach Writing)."
"I earned my MA in Writing at Johns Hopkins University. My poetry has appeared in North American Review, Sewanee Theological Review, Birmingham Poetry Review, and elsewhere. I was a finalist for the Bridport Prize in the UK. I teach high school and college English and live with my wife and children in Pennsylvania."
"I enjoy 'talking shop' when it comes to writing. Whether it's with student writers, teachers of writing, or published writers, I like exploring each writer's craft and how they go about transferring thoughts to the written word."
"Though not so techy, I'm a fan of Schoology and Goolge Docs — really any app or software that allows me to provide timely feedback to student writing from anywhere in the world. Instead of submitting hard copies, students share their writing electronically, and I'm able to leave formative and summative feedback that they can see in a matter of seconds."
"Vanilla ice cream with peanut butter swirls."
10/01/16: Spotlight on...Erik Wittmer
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Erik Wittmer. Read Erik's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Since 2013."
"I took the first ever 'iPads in Education' course way back in the summer of 2012. Shortly after this class, I was asked to be an assistant for the same class at IU12. I currently teach the upcoming 'iPads in Education' and 'Effective Video Production' courses."
"I have a dual degree in elementary and special education from Lock Haven University, as well as a master's degree from McDaniel College as a Reading Specialist. I have been in education for the past fifteen years. I have taught kindergarten, 4th, and 5th grade and learning support. This coming year I will start a new journey as a Technology Integrator Specialist in South Western School District."
"Meeting so many teachers from other districts and learning from them."
"Flipboard, because it is one spot I can go to read everything."
"Who doesn't like chocolate and peanut butter?"
9/21/16: Spotlight on...Jolene Erlacher
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Dr. Jolene Erlacher. Read Jolene's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"About 4 or 5 months."
"Tony B. heard me give a seminar on culture and kids and asked me to put together a course for teachers. That course is called 'Understanding Today's Students,' and it's running in October."
"My career began in K-12 education and I've worked in higher education for 15 years. My education background includes a graduate certificate in International Leadership. My undergraduate degree is in Elementary Education and my doctorate is in Leadership from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN. I also founded Leading Tomorrow in 2013 with the aim of equipping businesses, schools, and other organizations for effective inter-generational leadership in an evolving culture. My passion is to equip the next generation for success. I am fluent in Spanish and have volunteered and studied in various countries including Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Kenya, and South Africa. I am actively involved in my local community in central NC with my husband, daughters and our dog, Rex. I enjoy reading, writing and drinking coffee."
"Eduspire courses are organized in a way that the participants experience hands-on learning and often the courses are set up so that the teacher gets to try the activities with learners during the school year, return to class and refine the learning. So practical!"
"Google Apps: cross-platform, ease of use and so relevant!"
"Chocolate!"
9/7/16: Spotlight on...Michelle Krill
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Michelle Krill. Read Michelle's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Oh, my! Since the first tech summit — is that what it was called? That was before Eduspire was Eduspire, I believe!"
"I have worked with Sue Sheffer and she got me connected. So grateful! I currently teach (or have taught) Google Tools for Educators, Learning Management Systems, Tech Integration (formerly Bridging the Digital Divide), and Mobile Devices for Learning (1-Credit)."
"I began my educational career as a 2nd and 3rd grade classroom teacher. After 5 years in the classroom, I transitioned into the role of elementary technology liaison, providing just-in-time, job-embedded and ongoing professional development for teachers, staff, and administration. In the fall of 2007, I became the Classrooms for the Future coach at South Western High School to assist teachers with integrating grant-funded equipment into the curriculum. Currently, I'm an Instructional Technology Specialist, working with K-12 teachers to integrate technology into the existing curriculum and learning activities in a relevant and meaningful manner. I have also worked as a systems analyst for a private computer firm prior to becoming an educator. I obtained my Masters of Education from Wilmington College in 1996, completed course work to obtain state certification as an Instructional Technology Specialist, and earned supervisory certification through a joint program offered by Johns Hopkins University and the International Society for Technology in Education. In addition to my work with the South Western School District, I was recognized as a Google Certified Teacher in 2008, and I present locally and statewide on topics of instructional, educational technology. I am a member of the Corporate Faculty for Harrisburg University, too."
"Eduspire courses are organized in a way that the participants experience hands-on learning and often the courses are set up so that the teacher gets to try the activities with learners during the school year, return to class and refine the learning. So practical!"
"Google Apps: cross-platform, ease of use and so relevant!"
"Chocolate!"
8/20/16: Spotlight on...Jenny Krzystowczyk
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Jenny Krzystowczyk. Read Jenny's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"I started with the company early in 2015."
"Tony Brubaker reached out to me after seeing all of my online YouTube tutorials. Currently I am teaching Multimedia Classrooms and Social Media for Educators."
"I train, teach, lead and inspire educators both in person and online, and love public speaking engagements! I am a former Apple Foundations Trainer, Certified Google Educator, public speaker, blogger, author, online instructor, mother, runner and wife. Running keeps me energized and yoga keeps me calm. I am a highly creative, energetic and motivated individual, an Apple lover, and someone who is open to learning something new each and every day. I am also Director of Training at Score Publishing, which supports all things iBooks Author."
"I get to connect with amazing educators, stay current on trending technologies to support learning, and impact the instruction of educators."
"Right now I am immersed in the Stop Motion iOS app to create animations that I put into iBook Author projects!"
"Ha! I am a fan of anything raspberry and dark chocolate!!!"
8/1/16: Spotlight on...Melanie Lynch
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Melanie Lynch. Read Melanie's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"1 year."
"One of my colleagues that I work with teaches for Eduspire and recommended me to teach a course. I currently teach Health Education for 21st Century Learners."
"I teach high school health education at State College Area High School." (Melanie was also named Health Teacher of the Year at the National Shape America conference in Minneapolis earlier this year).
"I learn more technology all of the time because I am tuned into it and my students suggest new things to me."
"Voxer. I am always on the go and I can listen to all my messages and talk safely while I drive."
"Chocolate."
7/14/16: Spotlight on...Robin Seneta
This week's instructor spotlight features Eduspire's outstanding Robin Seneta. Read Robin's brief interview below to learn more about this talented member of the Eduspire team.
"Two years."
"I originally took the iPad class and knew the instructors. With my technology background, they had asked if I could assist them with some of their classes. I teach the Chromebooks: Making the Move to 21st Century Teaching, Creating Effective Video for the Classroom, and Bridging the Digital Divide courses, and I have also taught the iPads in Education course."
"I currently teach high school computer courses, and this is my 23rd year teaching. I taught science for 14 years, I was a technology coach for 4 years, and for 5 years I have taught Digital Literacy courses."
"Meeting people and having the face-to-face interaction with participants. It is great to help people gain confidence in using technology."
"Perry's Ice Cream — White Lightning (dark chocolate ice cream with white mint swirls)."
