At last year's Global Gala, our community rallied together to raise funds to add a new hero to our team: an Education Technology Specialist. We're thrilled to welcome Steven Lamb to our community!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
 

I've been an educator for 13 years, the bulk of those years in Albuquerque, NM, until I moved here with my wife and daughter in 2018. I am a huge advocate of educational technology and how it can be a tool to redefine the classroom. This passion led my wife and I to develop two TED talks on the subject. If you need to sleep, feel free to watch them! We also travel the country speaking about the topic at conferences and districts. I believe the true value of a device isn't measured by how powerful it is but by how much it empowers each student.

What do you think most parents might not appreciate about modern technology in the classroom?

As a parent myself, I am in constant awe of how technology has evolved. It can be incredibly overwhelming to see how technology has replaced some activities I enjoyed as a child. For example, it is no longer necessary to go to the library and use microfiche to research a topic. Or pull out a map for road trip directions only to curse the worn crease through I-40, making it impossible to see the proper exit! The nostalgic portion of me wants my daughter to know the struggle of life without technology, but I understand that is not her world. I think this historical longing is common with many parents.
 

I believe the true value of a device isn't measured by how powerful it is but by how much it empowers each student.
-Steven Lamb

What cool classroom projects are you implementing now and down the road?

I have already had the pleasure to work with every grade level in some capacity, including projects ranging from GIFs in Science to student identity with digital art creativity. In terms of the near future, I am currently facilitating two student-led projects. The first is a team of students who will learn several of our technology programs and skills to be technology ambassadors for teachers to support technology implementation in the classroom. A second project is curating a group of students who will design and produce school video announcements and news. They could also host a community tech session to help parents as well. So many possibilities!

What is your favorite thing about the school?

I am in love with world connections. These students are leveraging language, communication, technology, innovation, and so much more through a world lens.

Hear about Steven's impact directly from our Director of Lower Primary, Rachel Ratnathicam, who took a moment to discuss Steven Lamb's important role and his impact on teaching and learning.