WSU alumnus wins educator award for technology in the classroom
By Katie Merrick – College of Education
Technological literacy is not simply beneficial, but necessary. Access to technology is important for teachers to provide students with the ability to navigate the modern work environment.
Nicholas Rose is a West Seattle High School teacher, and an advocate for greater technology education. He has a noticeable desire to prepare students for life outside of his classroom.
This passion is why the ninth grade social studies and language arts teacher is the recipient of the 2018 Ferrucci Distinguished Educator Award, which is given by Washington State University’s College of Education.
“I hope to further my understanding of how a 21st century classroom capitalizes on access to technology to support learning,” wrote Rose in his award application. “These efforts would lay the groundwork for students to begin building a digital portfolio of their learning that will follow them through all four years of high school.”
Rose said he will use this award to establish an almost paperless classroom with updated access to computers, to build student research skills, and to address students’ individual needs.
THE FERRUCCI AWARD
The Ferrucci award is named for Dr. Vitt and Mary Ferrucci. It is a salaried summer sabbatical, of up to six weeks, on the WSU Pullman campus. It is given each year to one outstanding K-12 science, mathematics, or technology teacher. Recipients of this award receive paid travel, lodging, and project expenses as well as a stipend. For Rose, that amount is $22,000.
Rose is located in Seattle but was able to visit Pullman over the summer. During his time here, Rose worked with special education instructor Susie Skavdahl to learn more about educational technology.
Rose said he is grateful to Skavdahl for opening up her classroom and sharing what is currently taught in the WSU educational technology classes.
“This learning opportunity was invaluable and I am excited to implement what I have learned from my time in Pullman into my own practice,” Rose said. “Washington State University is a special place to me for many reasons, but most importantly, this is where my teaching journey began.”