"Teaching in a 21st century classroom has changed the way I approach lesson planning. I have had to restructure my classroom expectations and organization to better fit my changing classroom structure. Students are more willing to complete assignments due to the inclusion of new technology and submit better quality assignments on time. The most interesting part of teaching in a 21st century classroom is watching my students change and become self-motivated, active learners. Classroom behavior and engagement has improved exponentially! Lesson planning takes on a whole new meaning. During class I'm facilitation learning, hopping from student to student answering questions and helping troubleshoot. Having this immediate connection with students is invaluable. I am able to prevent misunderstandings before students internalize them. After class I am busy building lesson plans that are engaging and meaningful. Allowing students to choose which order they complete assignments provides for student choice and input. Having the technology at my fingertips has enabled me to become a more connected and effective teacher. I am able to adapt to my students abilities and individual interests."

-Wendy Joiner, Gifted Science Teacher at Rutland Middle School