Teachers Tonia Kirby and Alison Zemba: Revolutionizing Science Education with Hands-On Learning and Technology Integration
Tonia Kirby, a science teacher at the RISE Academy in Rantoul, Illinois, is dedicated to providing her students with real-world experiences. As a new middle school focused on alternative education, the school is prioritizing hands-on learning opportunities for its students. Kirby is thrilled to take her students outside on Monday and engage them in observing the world around them, bringing science to life in a tangible way.
Meanwhile, Alison Zemba, an eighth-grade science teacher at Pittsburgh Classical Academy, is excited about the chance for her students to benefit from the ASU-NASA partnership. Through this collaboration, her students have been able to explore the Kingdom of Peril lessons developed by Infiniscope. Zemba reports that her students have been enthusiastic about these lessons, experiencing moments of understanding and connection as they learn about the Sun/Earth/Moon system using technology.
Both teachers are committed to preparing their students for success by offering innovative and impactful learning experiences. Kirby’s hands-on approach encourages her students to ask questions and explore their curiosity while Zemba’s use of technology enhances their understanding of complex concepts through interactive and engaging lessons. Together, these two teachers are shaping the future of education by fostering a love for science and technology in their classrooms.