DAYTON — On Wednesday, April 19, ThinkTV announced Amy Kochensparger was one of 52 educators from across the country selected for the fifth annual PBS Digital Innovators Program.

The program recognizes classroom changemakers: educators who skillfully approach education with a bold and fresh perspective, and who integrate digital media and resources into their classrooms in a way that sparks a love of learning for their students. Kochensparger, an Honors Biology, Biology and Anatomy & Physiology teacher at Eaton High School, uses a “new and odd” learning technique to engage her students. Among other teachers selected were educators who are using 3D printers with their students to create prosthetic limbs; a technology coach whose classroom is a “STEM Bus” and co-teachers who use technology to bring their students together in one class, even though they’re in physical classrooms that are miles apart. A panel of esteemed judges selected the 52 PBS Digital Innovators from across the US, representing each of the 50 states, and the District of Columbia.

In partnership with ThinkTV, Kochensparger will serve as an education partner– deepening the connection between the educator community and ThinkTV. PBS Digital Innovators also participate in ongoing professional development; share their ideas on PBS platforms; have access to exclusive resources from PBS LearningMedia; receive a free PBS Teacherline professional development course; and are invited to special events, including the 2017 PBS Digital Summit. This year’s summit, in San Antonio, Texas, takes place directly before the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) conference.

“We are thrilled that Amy Kochensparger of Eaton Community Schools was selected as Ohio’s 2017 Lead PBS Digital Innovator. As a passionate and innovative teacher, Amy will be a perfect ambassador for our mission here at ThinkTV, to provide high-quality, accessible, educational media to Southwest Ohio’s educators and to educators statewide,” noted Diane Kroplin, Manager of Educational Media, ThinkTV.

“We were struck by the creativity and passion of this year’s applicants,” said Sara Schapiro, Vice President of Education, PBS. “The 2017 PBS Digital Innovators are a passionate group of educators who are committed to changing the way students learn through technology and digital media. Education is at the core of PBS’ mission and as a key partner with parents and educators across America, we’re excited for the opportunity to learn from and work with these classroom change makers as they partner with PBS member stations to share content that truly engages and empowers students in every community.”