January 2025 - Cherry Jade
What Do You Teach?
8th grade ELA & AVID
Where Do you Teach?
Cedar Bayou Junior High School
How Does Educational Technology Play a Role in Your Classroom?
Educational technology is central to my teaching, it allows me to create engaging, interactive lessons tailored to my students' needs. From digital platforms to multimedia resources, I use technology to make learning more dynamic and accessible for every student.
How Do You Find Technology in the Classroom Helpful?
Technology is incredibly helpful in keeping my students engaged and ensuring they stay on track. When a student returns after being absent, I use tools like shared online documents and audio features on our iPads to provide them with the materials they missed. This allows me to efficiently help them catch up and reintegrate into the classroom without falling behind.
What Is Your Favorite Piece of Classroom Technology? Why?
I have so many favorites! I love that we are a 1-to-1 district, so every student has an iPad. This allows everyone to participate in activities like Gimkit, which is a fun and competitive way to check for understanding while keeping students engaged. I also really appreciate Google Workspace, it streamlines assignments, simplifies collaboration, and gives the printer a much-needed break! These tools make teaching more interactive and efficient for both me and my students.
What Is On Your Technology Wish List For Your Classroom? Why?
In a perfect world, I would love for every student to have an Apple Pencil. This tool would enhance their ability to take clear, organized notes directly on their iPads, which is especially beneficial for activities like annotating texts. An Apple Pencil would also make it easier for students to engage in creative assignments, further supporting their learning and critical thinking skills. As an ELA teacher, I believe it’s important that we don't let the art of "writing" get lost in the digital age, and the Apple Pencil would help students maintain that connection while embracing technology.
What Do You Love Most About Teaching?
What I love most about teaching is the relationship piece and connecting with my students .I cherish the opportunity to teach them that no matter what challenges they face, they have the strength to rise above and achieve great things. Seeing them grow in confidence and resilience is the most rewarding part of my job!
What is one thing you would like to add to your tech wish list?
One thing that I would personally like to add to my tech wish list is an Apple pencil!
Nominated by Kristen Davenport: “From meticulous planning to dynamic classroom instruction, Ms. Cherry leverages every tool and strategy at her disposal to create an engaging and effective learning environment. Her dedication ensures that each student is actively learning and reaching their full potential.”