Innovation Proposal

Dear kindergarten teachers and administration of GFE,

 

              As kindergarten teachers, we have a unique opportunity to help our students take their very first step towards their educational career.   When these young learners step foot into our classrooms in August there is a large variety of skill sets, knowledge, and opportunity.  Each year we are commissioned to get these tiny learners, no matter where they begin at, to be ready for first grade by May.  And every year we find ourselves asking “How?” 

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             During the COVID-19 pandemic I had the opportunity to teach online and implement several different teaching strategies through technology.  With the pandemic behind us this leaves me wondering how we can incorporate the learning I gained from that year and make it real to our current students?  I wonder how we can blend our classrooms with effective and intentional use of technology, that not only engages students in their learning but gives them choice, ownership, and voice as well. 

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              I would like to establish an innovative initiative in my classroom in which I will foster an environment where students are engaged with activities that are designed to specifically meet their individualized needs. I am proposing to pilot the use of blended learning through the station rotation model in my classroom that will allow all students to set goals and work towards them in a way that is both meaningful to them and productive in helping them achieve success in the classroom.  With the students as my focus, they will have a choice in station rotations designed with activities that are focused on curriculum-based hands-on learning, age-appropriate technology, and STEM opportunities.

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             I expect this project to be fully implemented over the course of two academic years.  Throughout the year I will continue to monitor and collect anecdotal notes.  I will use my findings to drive my instructional planning, adjusting, and modifying as needed.  I will share my findings with you across the year(s).  I am requesting your support, grace, and feedback as I am working through the ins and outs of this initiative.  Sun Tzu says “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”  The journey is just beginning, and I am excited for my students and I to take our first step towards a more blended future.

 

Thank you,

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Hillary Turnage

Kindergarten Teacher

Goforth Elementary