Teacher Spotlight

Paloma Elementary School

I teach a combination Kindergarten and first grade class at Paloma Elementary school. Paloma is located 10 miles west of Gila Bend. It is a small, rural school with a mostly Hispanic population. I have been teaching for eight years here. I feel that my bilingual skills and background help the students feel more comfortable in the classroom.

Technology is used in my class on a regular basis. The students practice math and grammar in the computer lab. The students also use the computer to practice their spelling words and improve their typing skills. After they've developed basic computer skills, they write and create with programs like PowerPoint and Word. Recently, we created a presentation on the water cycle using a digital camera and PowerPoint. We've also produced PowerPoint presentations about the state of Arizona and Presidents Lincoln and Washington.

The students gain a lot more confidence when they use the computer. They explore various educational websites and work on their writing skills without being asked!

Project Venture has been very important to me by broadening my perspectives about teaching. Now I automatically think about ways to use technology when I am creating lessons. The students expect that they will be working on the computer when we are learning about different topics.

Project Venture has also given me the courage to use more technology in the classroom. I learned a lot of computer skills that I now use in the classroom on a regular basis. I recently bought a digital camera to use with my students on projects. One of my goals before Project Venture ends is to learn how to use the video camera to make a movie with my class.