Tammy Tom, a grade 6/7 teacher at Columbia Park Elementary, is a finalists in this year’s Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education in the Technology and Innovation category.
Tomm is one of thirty education professional finalists from across the province.
“When we open the doors of opportunity for young people, we give them the chance to succeed and our whole province benefits,” said Premier John Horgan. “This year’s finalists have gone to incredible lengths to help B.C. students inside and outside the classroom. I commend these hard-working education professionals for their leadership, innovation and determination.”
Tomm, the news release notes, was recognized for using technology as a tool to enhance student understanding and deepen engagement through interactive learning environments. She has introduced students to a wide range of technologies, including the Scratch and Scratch Jr. coding languages, Makey Makey, and mobile technology and associated tools, such as Green Screen and stop motion video production.
She has been an active participant in two Special Education Technology British Columbia Synergy projects, bringing new technology into the school. These interdisciplinary projects helped to deepen students’ communication, critical and creative thinking skills, while providing engaging learning activities. She also introduced Exploration Fridays, seeing multi-age groups of students meet in different classrooms to explore, create and innovate, while learning about subjects they and their teachers might not normally be exposed to.
Launched in 2018, the annual Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education are an opportunity to recognize the contributions of public, independent and First Nations school system teachers, principals, vice-principals, school and district leaders, and support staff who go above and beyond to make life better for K-12 students in B.C. This year, 10 awards will be given, with six honouring teachers, two recognizing school and district leaders, and two honouring support staff members.
The nomination period ran from Jan. 7 to April 30, 2019, and 140 nominations were received.
“These awards give us an opportunity to hear amazing stories of the innovation and dedication being shown by our province’s finest educators,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Education. “Their efforts make schools inclusive, thought-provoking and enjoyable places where B.C. students can thrive.”
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