iCreate to Educate was born out of a desire to bring technology researched and developed in the university space into the K12 classroom.  Not only did the founders want to integrate digital tools into the curriculum, but they also relied heavily on testing and feedback done by a group of teachers called the SAM Squad.  Recruited through the early professional development workshops offered for SAM Animation, this core group of teachers were considered “mavericks” and early adopters and worked directly with the founders of iCreate to Educate to develop new curricular ideas, improve the website and software, and provide other invaluable feedback from classroom use of SAM Animation.  Some key members were William Church, a high school science teacher in Littleton, NH; Sharal Plumley, a technology integrator at Whitefield Elementary School; Dan Calder, a science teacher at Bow High School; and Ben Woo, the visual art coordinator and enrichment teacher, and Garret Ferguson, a fourth grade teacher, both at LaFayette Regional School.

Now, two years after iCreate’s inception, we have launched an updated version of the SAM Squad, called iCreate Elite Educators.  We understand the importance of staying true to our classroom tested and approved roots and also recognize the need to remain authentic and relevant in the K12 environment.

The Elites represent an opportunity to become closely involved in the development of innovative classroom tools through beta testing software, running professional development workshops, or piloting content.  Each Elite will have the chance to be featured on the iCreate website in a Classroom Spotlight and serve as a case study for best practices of technology integration and use.  Additionally, each Elite will receive free products as well as the privilege of being the first to receive any new development from iCreate.  There will be opportunities for complimentary travel to select conferences such as ISTE and FETC.

We’d love to hear from innovative educators that are passionate about educational technology and want to become leaders in helping us make a difference in classrooms around the world.  If you or any educators you know are using SAM Animation, don’t hesitate to apply to be part of this select group.