My name is Mrs. Kochheiser, a sixth grade teacher with Waverly Community Schools in Michigan. Before I became a teacher, I graduated from Michigan State University (BA/telecommunication and MA/public relations--#spartanswill), and worked for many years as a writer and fundraiser for non-profits including the American Red Cross and the Capital Area United Way.
I currently teach Language Arts and Social Studies. I am certified in elementary education (Spring Arbor University), and have a master's degree in Reading and Literacy (Walden University). Prior to teaching 6th grade, I taught 3rd for 7 years. Inspiring students to read, write and learn about the world around them is my jam, and in 2014, I earned a certification as a Teacher Consultant with the National Writing Project (2014/Red Cedar Writing Project). Technology and how it can be used as a tool to engage students and offer new opportunities for students to create and learn is my other passion. I am always on the lookout for new technology, ideas, books and inspiration to meet the students' needs each year. I believe technology should not be used because it is "cool", but rather because it can provide students with unique and differentiated ways for students actively connect with content. Knowing that students need a voice in the decisions of the classroom and their learning, I always create and work with a class Tech Team. Students who have an interest in technology assist me in exploring new websites prior to the launch of these in the classroom. In addition, they assist other teachers who need tech support in their classrooms, too. As our school became 1:1 with Chromebooks, it was exciting for me to help lead other teachers into the world of the digital classroom. Teaching is my dream, my passion and daily source of inspiration. I enjoy helping students become the best versions of themselves that they can be. This website is my way to inspire other teachers to explore, try, and find new tech tools that might, in turn, inspire them to use in the classroom to create new learning experiences for students to not only engage them but to help students become creators and makers. Teachers who make a difference inspire students to make a difference. |