When asked to write this article, I thought long and hard about the content. Initially, I asked my students about their favorite lessons with me. Then, I even considered inviting a student to write the article. Ultimately, I reflected on what would be most helpful for other teachers or students interested in technology and computer science. The most important message for members of ACTEM is to welcome every student into your classroom and appreciate all you do.

I love what I teach and feel incredibly fortunate to teach the classes I do and work with the students I meet. I’m passionate about seeing what they create, collaborating with colleagues, and constantly learning about technology and computer science. Computer science opens doors, offering incredible creative opportunities that allow us to express ourselves and help others in ways previously unimaginable. My biggest request for teachers is to welcome every student into their classrooms.

Throughout my journey, I’ve often been told I don’t belong in computer science. It started in high school, when teachers claimed I didn’t know enough math or was “too social” for the field. Later, as I began teaching, some professionals told me that video work didn’t count as technology, or that my degree wasn’t sufficient to be considered a professional. Others even suggested that any recognition I received was simply because I was a woman teaching technology. These experiences highlight how frequently we tell students and professionals what they can’t do, forgetting the potential they can achieve. The most important thing we can do is welcome every student, making sure everyone has a place in our rooms. Reflect on who’s present, who’s missing, and what more we could do to create an inclusive environment.

Student Feedback: “Ms. York is a teacher who deeply cares about her students, and her class is very fun. It’s not just any normal high school class; you can feel the excitement as soon as you walk in. Everyone is always smiling and having a good time, and she doesn’t make any student feel less important than another.” - Student Feedback, Spring 2024.

My job is to expose as many students as possible to diverse opportunities to better prepare them for a world where technology is everywhere. My role isn’t to be the person who knows everything, nor to solely grade and set rigid expectations. I didn’t go to college to do the same thing every day; I work with students to explore what they can create and provide them with as many enriching experiences as possible.

Student Feedback: “I remember when we had a visit from a Korean news station. They came to ask us about using AI in school. I had fun explaining my perspective on AI learning. I told them, ‘I am learning about AI so I know the do’s and don’ts of AI.’ I talked more with them, giving examples of AI use.” - Student Feedback, Fall 2024.

I know I’m not the only teacher striving for this. Thank you to everyone in Maine and beyond who continues to do their best and works to create welcoming classrooms. I’ve made many mistakes, and this job is incredibly challenging. We face constant pressure to improve, and sometimes we’re told we don’t belong. Feeling out of place is one of the hardest experiences anyone can endure, and being told what you can and cannot do can be limiting. So, thank you to all the teachers who wake up each day to inspire students to learn who they are and what they can achieve. We teach some of the most relevant, engaging, and powerful content out there. Thank you for all you do and for making every student feel welcome.

Student Feedback: “Mrs. York is a breath of fresh air in my day. Her modern teaching style contributes to the much-needed change in public education. Her media literacy class made me feel treated as an adult and that my voice mattered. York embraces the inevitable shift in education with AI and modern learning, even though it may still be in the minority of American schools. Teachers like York who embrace the shift in education are crucial. Bravo, York!” - Student Feedback, Fall 2023.

-Julie York

OCT 2024 UPDATE:  SOUTH PORTLAND TEACHER WINS FULBRIGHT AWARD

South Portland High School career preparation and technology teacher Julie York received a Fulbright Teacher Exchange Award, enabling her to do research and connect with students abroad.

South Portland High School teacher Julie York has won a Fulbright Teacher Exchange Award from the U.S. Department of State and Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.

The honor enables York, who is a career preparation and technology teacher and department chair, to teach, study or conduct research abroad through the Fulbright program.

Terri Dawson - ACTEM 2024 ACHIEVE Award

NOTE:  It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Terri Lynn Dawson of Gorham Middle School, who was recently honored with the ACTEM 2024 ACHIEVE Award.

A Fond Farewell to a Beloved Educator    

By Suzanne Dix, GMS Librarian and Media Specialist

Gorham Middle School lost a beloved member of the staff on Oct. 21. Terri Dawson was the Technology Integrator at the middle school, working to help students and staff to be more comfortable and effective in 3D printing, coding, operating robots, working with drones and using AI ethically. She ran the popular iTeam Club after school with 40-50 students each Monday. She launched the hugely successful STEAM Night at GMS in 2023. Nearly 400 students, families and community members attended the event. The second STEAM night in 2024 was equally exciting. Terri was a tireless and creative advocate for learning, exploration, experimentation and creativity. 

Terri was a kind and patient educator. Students were encouraged to stop by her room all day long to troubleshoot with their iPads or chat about new technologies. She was creative and exuberant in working with staff to build collaborative units and lessons. Earlier this month, Terri was recognized as the statewide ACHIEVE Award recipient from ACTEM (Association of Computer Technology Educators of Maine). Winning this prestigious award showcases how dedicated Terri was to her students and staff, always cheerleading and motivating. Terri was always the first to hear about a new app, tool or platform and enthusiastically shared it with staff members. Terri’s Technology Tip was a staple of each monthly staff meeting. 

Our yearbook photos were always wonderful due to Terri’s willingness to fly a drone, climb onto the roof of our building or be behind the scenes at every school event. 

To celebrate and honor Terri’s life and legacy, Terri’s family will be creating the Terri Dawson Technology Scholarship to be given to one or two students each year who demonstrate an aptitude and excitement for technological advancement. As the GMS staff navigates this difficult time, they will remember Terri for her fun spirit, quick smile, and the laughter she brought into their lives. She was a wonderful friend and colleague, and her impact on our school community will never be forgotten. 

Congratulations to the 2024 ACTEM ACHIEVE Award winners!

Consider nominating an outstanding educator for the 2025 ACHIEVE award at ACTEM’s website:  https://www.actem.org/AchieveAward