May 2019 - Kristi Tucker
Name
Kristi Tucker
What Do You Teach?
2nd Grade Self-Contained - GT
Where Do you Teach?
Stephen F. Austin Elementary School
How Long Have You Been Teaching?
12 years
How Does Educational Technology Play a Role in Your Classroom?
I love to integrate technology on a daily basis if possible. The students thrive anytime I allow them to incorporate different apps to complete projects along with their lessons. Sometimes they even come up with their own unique ideas for me to include. I've been told, "just include it in your plans" anytime they come up with extra ideas for the day.
I also have a tech savvy team that has created many flip charts. We use these on a daily basis for warm-up or reviews. I also have access to an iPad cart which allows my students the ability to take their learning to a whole different level.
How Do You Find Technology in the Classroom Helpful?
This year I have been blessed with a very tech savvy group of students. Every student learns differently and technology makes learning more interesting and fun. I feel it allows my students to shine in many ways and opens the door for lots of student talk. My students are always sharing ideas with one another and teaching each other new skills. I am able to learn just as much from them as I am able to teach them.
What Is Your Favorite Piece of Classroom Technology? Why?
I love being able to use the iPads. As a class, we have explored many different apps this year and were able to incorporate several within our GT Showcase and our daily learning.
What Is On Your Technology Wish List For Your Classroom? Why?
I would love to be able to use Apple TV within my classroom. This would help with modeling new apps for my students. Projects could easily be shared on the Promethean for all to see.
What Do You Love Most About Teaching?
I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I love being able to help students learn but to also find ways to build their confidence. Growing up I was always shy in school. When I became a teacher I made it a goal to find ways to allow my students to shine. There is nothing better than to be able to experience their "aha!" moment.
Nominated by:
Karen Trujillo, Austin Elementary Librarian
"Mrs. Tucker uses technology, in her classroom, daily. She integrates technology into the curriculum giving her students the opportunity to use higher order thinking skills and their creativity. This past Christmas, her students Dear Santa letters were like no others. When submitted to the local newspaper a QR code was sent and the student letters came to life, in a form of an iMovie they created. She is always willing to learn new apps to help in the integration of technology in her classroom."