Jennifer Lachel Email & Phone Number

District 36

Thus far, my current position as a Technology Specialist has been successful and fulfilling. I have worked closely with my Pre K – 4th grade team members to begin redesigning curriculum; creating essential questions and objectives and beginning the alignment to CCS, NETS-Students and NETS-Teachers. I have also experimented with and shared a variety of emerging technologies via weekly and bi-weekly team meetings as well as a blog. I am also proud to say that I spearheaded and implemented the BUGG (Bringing up Growth Goals) program to help increase our MAP scores and designed, and will host, our first annual technology showcase. Other duties include MAP testing administration, 21st century instructional design, online program management, community/staff development, coaching/mentoring, troubleshooting minor hardware/software issues and organization and inventory of equipment.

My time as a first grade teacher was nothing but rewarding. I had the opportunity to redesign and update the curriculum, pilot iPads and a SMARTBoard and teach an incredible and diverse group of children. Throughout my time as classroom teacher I was never afraid to take risks; I was always willing to try new and exciting methods and resources. The passion for technology integration began during my first year teaching when asked to pilot a MacBook in the class. I used it to record podcasts, fluency reads and movies. After that first year I was the go-to girl to experiment with other exciting endeavors (iPads, SMARTBoard…). I strived to create a student-centered, authentic learning environment filled with collaboration, creativity, communication and respect. Throughout the years, my students became newscasters, bloggers, collaborators and competent digital natives.

Master Of Education (M.Ed.), Curriculum And Instruction

Action Research focus: Integrating Digital Technologies To Enrich Student Curriculum

Bachelor Of Science (Bs), Early Childhood Education And Teaching