Crystal McDowell

Georgia Teachers Initiative Grant Winner

Ms. McDowell will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to continue the initiative, “The Da Vinci Project,” which engages students in experiences that allow them to use their creativity to innovate.  Specifically, the project aims to improve fine motor hands to mind skills, which are deficit skillsets identified by local employers, particularly in the medical fields. Through models, medical training tools, virtual reality and augmented reality, students will develop skills that can transfer to many careers and, through relevant contextual lessons, also expose them to numerous possible careers that would utilize these skills. 

What I have observed throughout my career is that humans are naturally curious. Young children are eager to ask questions, to explore the world around them with their senses, and to be creative. Traditional methods and other factors tend to diminish that creativity and curiosity. Students stop acting on their inquisitive nature. What I know is that ability is still there, and it is through innovation that I aim to unlock that curiosity and creativity in my students. Innovative instruction allows students freedom to create and to take ownership in their learning. Given a collaborative, inquiry-based learning environment, students innovate.

- Crystal McDowell

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2,026 students commit to teaching profession at second annual Teach in the Peach Statewide Educator Signing Day