School District 197 is pleased to announce that two of its teachers have been recognized as TIES Exceptional Teachers for 2013. Henry Sibley High School teacher Dann Hurlbert and Heritage E-STEM Magnet School teacher Jen Anderson have been given awards for modeling technology best practices in their classroom and engaging students in learning. Hurlbert and Anderson were presented with their awards at the TIES Technology Conference Dec. 17 in Minneapolis.
Dann Hurlbert has been a steady contributor to the Sibley Technology Committee for the past five years. He was an active participant in the creation of the Sibley Technology Plan that paved the way for the current Bring-Your-Own Device Initiative and other technology improvements throughout the building. Most recently he wrote and directed, "Managing your Digital Footprint", a video created in partnership with local public and private entities to promote responsible use of social media. The video has been used to educate not only students, but also parents. In the classroom, Hurlbert has used his film talents to shift his direct instruction online. Hurlbert's "flipped" classroom has allowed students to use class time to improve the quality of their video production.
Jen Anderson teaches iPad U at Heritage. Anderson does a wonderful job incorporating technology into her lessons at a high level, and even revamped her entire course over the summer to personalize learning for her students. Her work with schools around the globe has enabled students to gain a firsthand look at what other students their age are learning, and to develop communication skills that will help them become better 21st century learners. Anderson also provides staff with excellent support on iPads and other technology they use throughout the building. Teachers depend on her for advice on issues they are having in the classroom. Anderson also runs a Technology Cafe before school to assist students as they implement technology throughout the school day.
TIES is an education technology collaborative based in St. Paul that offers school administration software, Internet services and professional development for educators.