Blog Post 13

What can we learn from Teachers of the Year?

1. Ashley Kulik (3:42)
2. Lauren Marrocco (5:22)
3. Whitney Pitzer (4:44)

Answer the question in a post that adheres to the standards found in the ACCRS and in Writing A
Quality Blog Post.

Ashley Kulik, 1st grade: Atlanta Public Schools Elementary School Teacher of the Year 2011

Ashley Kulik is a first grade teacher at Mary Lin Elementary in Atlanta, Georgia. In her Teacher of the Year profile video, she explains that first graders can be taught and can have motivation to learn. She often lets her students work in groups and use classroom computers to enhance their learning. She also emphasizes the importance of building a learning "foundation" for students at the first grade level. I believe Kulik is a great role model for lower elementary grades. She proves that first grade can be a grade of real learning, not just babysitting. She uses games and other hands-on activities to interest studies in what they are learning. She is a great source of encouragement to her young learners.

Lauren Marrocco, 4th grade: New Jersey Teacher of the Year 2012-13

Lauren Marrocco is a 4th grade teacher at E.J. Patten Elementary School in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. In her Teacher of the Year profile video, Marrocco is shown using frequent group and classroom collaboration. She takes part in a brain-based learning professional development camp in the summer, and uses strategies from that experience in her classroom. For example, she makes sure that they can often switch from listening to her, talking to their partner, or talking to their group because research has shown that a fourth-graders attention span only lasts for approximately ten minutes. Her motivation strategies are intriguing and her excited energy makes learning fun for her students. I admired how much her students and colleagues adored her. She always is trying to connect with her students on a personal level and encourages them to achieve success.

Whitney Pitzer, Kindergarten: Plano Independent School District Elementary Teacher of the Year 2014

Whitney Pitzer is a kindergarten teacher at Stinson Elementary in Plano, Texas. In her Teacher of the Year profile video, Pitzer talks about the importance of learning in kindergarten. She uses games, movement, and group work to engage her students in learning. She also frequently tries to challenge her students by probing them to attempt difficult problems. Like Kulik, Pitzer shows that students can really learn at a young age, if taught in the right way. She says that she wants her students to enjoy learning. Her goal is to have her students want to come school each day. I think that is a goal all teachers should strive for.

All of these teachers share some things in common. All use group work, games, and other activities to keep children interested and engaged in their learning. Most importantly, they all also have a positive attitude. They place kindness, respect, and encouragement at a high value in their classrooms.