Amber Winter

Georgia Teachers Initiative Grant Winner

Ms. Winter of Turner County Elementary School of Turner County Schools has been awarded $2,500 for her project “Weather Watchers: Engineering Weather Stations for Real-Time Rural Forecasting.” This hands-on STEM initiative empowers fourth-grade students to design and build their own weather stations, collecting and analyzing real-time atmospheric data to better understand weather patterns and the water cycle. Aligned with Georgia science standards, the project integrates engineering, coding, and data interpretation, offering rural students authentic experiences that mirror the work of professional meteorologists. Funding will support microbit kits with sensors, analog weather tools, journals, safety gear, and refurbished tablets for coding and analysis. With reusable materials and a sustainable design, the project enhances science learning while building critical 21st century skills in collaboration and problem-solving.

Innovation in my classroom means creating hands-on, student-centered experiences that spark curiosity and connect learning to the real world. I integrate technology, engineering, and creative problem-solving into core subjects to encourage exploration and critical thinking. Students aren’t just consuming information. They’re designing, building, coding, and leading their learning. Whether through STEM challenges, digital projects, or interactive simulations, innovation empowers students to take ownership, collaborate meaningfully, and apply concepts in new ways. This approach prepares them for future success by fostering adaptability, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

- Amber Winter

Site Search