Ron Heinen named Educator of the Year
by Iowa Technology Education Connection

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 26, 2011

For more information contact:
Kathy Hanson     
Ames Community Schools           
515.268.6651
kathy.hanson@ames.k12.ia.us

             Ron Heinen, eighth grade art teacher at Ames Middle School, was honored as the Educator of the Year at the Iowa Technology Education Connection Conference on Monday, Oct. 17.

             Heinen, who has taught in Ames for 32 years, was recognized for his innovative strategies in the classroom using technology to improve instruction and student achievement. 

             Former student Max Peterson, a 2009 Ames High graduate, said Heinen didn’t just teach him the motto that “everyone is an artist.”
             “He also introduced me to the world of graphic design and using technology to create art,” Peterson said.

             Lance Wilhelm, the former director of technology Ames Community School District who nominated Heinen, said Heinen is known for his ability to engage students in learning.

             “Heinen really does this the right way—the focus is not on technology, but rather on using technology to communicate visually,” said Wilhelm, who is now technology director at Heartland Area Education Agency.

             Heinen works in a cross-curricular manner, coordinating with the music department to integrate an application like Garage Band, for example, and with the language arts department to teach storyboarding, Wilhelm said.

             A hallmark of Heinen’s innovative use of technology in the classroom is the digital movie his eighth grade art students create.

             “A few years ago, this project started as a ‘music video,’” Wilhelm said, “but it has evolved on many dimensions. While some students still choose a music video, most are focused on telling a story digitally.”
             Most important, Wilhelm said, “Heinen inspires students, and helps to cultivate their creativity.”

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