December 2021 - Rachael Lancon
Name
Rachael Lancon
What Do You Teach?
5th grade Math
Where Do you Teach?
Harlem Elementary
How Long Have You Been Teaching?
5 years
How Does Educational Technology Play a Role in Your Classroom?
I utilize Pear Deck, EdPuzzle, and Google Classroom to differentiate my lessons and offer real-time feedback to my students. Integrating technology has helped me guide and correct my students immediately instead of a day or two later once I've hand graded their work.
How Do You Find Technology in the Classroom Helpful?
I love that I can differentiate my lessons quick and efficiently. It has helped me cut down on lesson prep time that was keeping me away from my own family. Also, the benefits of real-time feedback are incredible. I get to immediately respond to my students to ensure their understanding and guide them in their problem solving process.
What Is Your Favorite Piece of Classroom Technology? Why?
I love Pear Deck. Last school year I was really struggling to keep my students engaged in the lesson and offer quick feedback. An EdTech team member mentioned Pear Deck in a meeting. I signed up for the 1 hour training and it quickly became my saving grace during a difficult time! I utilize Pear Deck with weekly scaffolded warm ups, introducing new concepts, and preparing students for online STAAR testing by modeling online testing strategies. Pear Deck's Flashcard factory has recently become a new favorite of mine. It helps me review important math vocabulary, practice math facts, and review basic numerical operations.
What Is On Your Technology Wish List For Your Classroom? Why?
I would love to have a classroom set of Apple pens or good stylus to help when using the drawing setting on Pear Deck. Or a solid classroom set of headphones.
What Do You Love Most About Teaching?
I love "lightbulb" moments. When a student finally understands a difficult concept and their eyes light up with excitement and pride.
Nominated by:
Elaina Kloecker, Elementary Technology Integration Specialist
"Ms. Lancon uses technology seamlessly in her classroom. When Pear Deck was first introduced to the staff at Harlem, she was the first to dive in and get it started in her classroom. She is always willing to try new technology applications to give her students the opportunity for voice and choice in her lessons. She is also a fabulous teammate, and is always willing to share her ideas and techniques with her peers across the district."