Thursday, May 24, 2001

WILMINGTON, NC – Cheryl Hawkins, a third-grade teacher at Ogden Elementary School, was named UNCW’s Watson School of Education Technology Teacher of the Year. In recognition of the honor, she received a Dell GX150 personal computer.

The award is sponsored by the Watson School of Education Professional Development System (PDS) and Dell Computer Corp. and honors a teacher who exhibited individual excellence in the use of instructional technology in the classroom.

“The concept of the PDS Technology Teacher of the Year is an outgrowth of the annual technology conference hosted by the Watson School of Education,” said Wendy Marshall, technology outreach coordinator for the education school. “The goal was to motivate teachers to incorporate technology throughout their curricula.”

A six-member selection committee chose Hawkins from 10 applicants. In addition to the application, the teachers submitted recommendation letters from their principals and a three- to five-minute VHS tape that illustrated how they incorporated technology to improve student learning.

“I’m very honored by this award,” said Hawkins, a 16-year classroom veteran. “There are so many excellent teachers utilizing technology in the classrooms.” She added that the computer would allow her to “expand individualized student instruction and aid in preparation of teaching materials and resources.”

According to Ogden Elementary School Principal Cindy Talbert, Hawkins took the initiative to expand her technology skills to enhance student learning. “Mrs. Hawkins’ dedication and her full participation in specialized training are evidence of her commitment to professional growth and understanding the

role technology has in educating young children.”

Hawkins said the technology training she received through the UNCW Watson School of Education Professional Development System was extremely beneficial. “UNCW’s school of education keeps us on the cutting edge of the teaching profession.”

The university’s nationally recognized Professional Development System works to improve teacher training and provides a support system for all levels of growth in teacher development. With established partnerships at 10 school systems throughout the region to improve teaching methodology, it is an example of how UNCW’s regional outreach programs improve the lives of the citizens of Southeastern North Carolina.

For more information, contact Wendy Marshall, technology outreach coordinator for the UNCW Watson School of Education, at 910/962-7287.