David Kaser of Wadsworth is the 2019 Teacher of the Year for State Board of Education District 7. Kaser teaches STEM courses at Barberton High School.
His recent work on implementing virtual reality in the classroom has led to a collaboration with scientists in MIT’s Teaching Systems Lab. The work is featured on the
Google for Education Transformation Center webpage.
Colleagues say Kaser lets the strengths and interests of his students guide classroom instruction and activities. He believes that when students have a voice, they invest more deeply in their learning.
Kaser and 10 other regional Teacher of the Year awardees each have the chance to be named the 2019 Ohio Teacher of the Year this fall.
“Teachers are at the forefront of Ohio’s charge to create bright, exciting futures for our students,” said Paolo DeMaria, Ohio’s superintendent of public instruction. “The Ohio Teacher of the Year program recognizes inspiring educators who elevate our public education system and ensure real world success for our students.”
The Ohio Department of Education invited school districts in State Board District 7 to nominate teachers for the regional award. Sarah Fowler, State Board District 7 representative, worked with a committee of educators, parents and business leaders to
select Kaser.
“The creative, thoughtful ways David engages his students gives them room to pursue their particular interests and to take ownership of their own projects and learning,” Fowler said. “He gives them valuable opportunities to learn through their mistakes as well as their successes, and he inspires them to develop a quality work ethic.”
“David Kaser has been a driving force in the transformation of Barberton High School’s STEM program,” said Jeff Ramnytz, Barberton Schools superintendent. “Because of his efforts, our STEM program achievement has reached an all-time high with technology including 3D printing, drone activities and virtual-reality education. The impact is that students who may not have thought of STEM as a pathway now are seeking out colleges
that provide the next level in STEM education.” A panel of education and community stakeholders will select the 2019 Ohio Teacher of the
Year. That educator will represent the Buckeye State in the National Teacher of the Year selection sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers.