This school year, Learning Blade wanted to recognize educators who have used the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and Computer Science platform to enrich experiences of students in their school(s).
"Learning Blade is a supplemental STEM toolbox of interactive online lessons, teacher lesson plans and classroom activities proven to increase STEM career awareness for students in Tennessee," officials said. Learning Blade closes opportunity gaps as students are exposed to high-demand STEM industry careers through relevant real-world storylines."
The Learning Blade Educator of the Year for Tennessee is Ms. Sundra Dolberry, STEM Innovations Teacher for John P. Freeman Optional School in Memphis Shelby County School District. Ms. Dolberry has been an educator for 21 years, having earned her master of education from Liberty University. She has been awarded Urban Educator Award through NSTA and is always looking for opportunities to bring more innovative programs to her students.
"Learning Blade has had a great impact on my students, especially the STEM/CTE students. The exposure to careers was awesome," said Ms. Dolberry.
In March of 2022, a nomination period was opened for the Learning Blade State Educator of the Year. Due to the high volume of qualified applicants, Learning Blade awarded 10 teachers the Learning Blade State Educator of the Year for their respective states and named two teachers the National Educators of the Year. Each state winner received a cash award, trophy and certificate recognizing their accomplishment.
Learning Blade was launched statewide in 2015 and is provided to schools in Tennessee through funding from the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce.