The New OLE Author We’re Thrilled About

Some Background

Hello, my name is Laura McGrath and I am excited to be a part of the fantastic OLE Community. I have taught third and fourth grade in a low-income area for the past six years. Being relatively new to the field of education, I am constantly learning from my colleagues, administrators, and my own teaching and educational research.

My classroom goals are to keep learning engaging and connected to the real world. I remember being in classrooms where the teacher didn’t seem to enjoy what they were teaching. They were bored with it, and it was obvious. I teach with enthusiasm and I make valid connections to the real world. One of the biggest tools I use to do these things is technology. Technology is constantly evolving and bringing us new and exciting learning experiences.

Do you have students who don’t want to dissect an actual animal? They can do this virtually and still have the same learning experience by using an iPad app called Punflay. This app also has a lot of other great educational games for all ages.

Because of technology, we can learn about exotic animals and see them in action, look at clear and beautiful pictures from far-reaching telescopes, and have a virtual meeting with a class of students from across the world. It is exciting what technology allows us to do, but for some it can also be overwhelming. I hope that we can find ways to make it easier to integrate technology and make it meaningful for you and your students.

Three T’s

I want to tell you a little more about me and the three T’s that am thrilled about:

1. Teaching. I have wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl, and I truly enjoy teaching my students. Of course, sometimes I get exhausted. But I love when something “clicks” and they understand. That moment when you can see that you just taught them something new and powerful is priceless. That is what I love about teaching and why I went into the profession in the first place. I wanted to change lives, and I know that I have.

2. Technology. Obvious, I know. I think it’s because I was going to school when technology was still so new. To watch it evolve and become more and more amazing is just something that sticks with you. Technology resonates well with students too. They love technology and it is fun for them. Never underestimate its power!

3. Trading. What I mean by this one is that I love exchanging ideas with people. I trade ideas and learn from those around me (students included) all the time! To me, there is nothing more powerful than sharing and trading ideas.

I look forward to some great idea trading with all of you! Check back next week for a blog post about tips for keeping your students engaged over the summer!