Iowa Department of Education Director Judy Jeffrey has received the 2009 State Policy Maker Award from the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA).
Jeffrey was honored for her outstanding vision and for her leadership in the use of educational technology to build a rigorous and robust learning experience positioning Iowa's students to compete in the 21st Century, according to SETDA.
"Ms. Jeffrey provides an exemplary model of effective state leadership, turning vision into action by surrounding herself with dedicated and experienced staff. Her policy decisions have made a long term difference for students in Iowa and across the nation," SETDA's Executive Director Mary Ann Wolf, Ph.D. said.
Jeffrey understands the importance of maximizing the potential of technology for teaching and learning, according to SETDA. She is constantly looking for ways that technology can be integrated into the teaching and learning environment.
"I am honored to be recognized by SETDA," Jeffrey said. "In Iowa, we know that technology is not an add-on to education, but must be woven into the very fabric of instruction to be truly effective. Much like in business, technology must be seamless; enhancing the learning environment and expanding the capacity and potential of instruction."
Following Ms. Jeffrey's speech, Principal Rex Kozak and students Brodie Beadle and Trent Harem from East Marshall High School and Frank Scaglione from Waukee High School, who is also a student-member of the State Board of Education, shared first-hand how technology in their schools has changed their education and their plans for the future.