Matt Hardy is an instructional leader in the district and the greater educational community.  He has integrated technology into the curriculum in many ways, including: 
> Video conferencing with professionals around the country via Polycom video conferences
> SMART Notebook and screen-capture software to produce a schoolwide, online broadcast
> Scratch programming to create presentations
> Robotics to develop programming skills and logical problem-solving
> Google Apps to publish writing projects and iPod usage Instructional technology for "reverse teaching"

In addition, he is the creator and owner of KIDBLOG.ORG, which lets teachers around the world create free, safe classroom blogs for their students.  He currently has 900,000 users.  He provides site and district training on effectively using KIDBLOG in the classroom, including presentations at TIES and national conferences.  Matt Hardy is truly student-focused, engaging students in their learning and using instructional technology to create an equitable learning environment. 

Throughout her 20 years in the district, Kris Hammer has been a pioneer in integrating technology into her teaching practices. With her leadership, the district’s instrumental music program at the elementary level has embraced the use of technology. As a result, she has transformed the instructional practices of many teachers and changed the way thousands of students experience and learn about music. She is recognized as an expert in integrating Smart Music technologies into the classroom. These technologies allow for students to take a greater role in their learning though self-assessments, digital recording capabilities and instructional features that allow them to extend their learning outside of the classroom and the school day. Recognized by her peers as a leader in technology, Hammer has presented multiple workshops to music educators at the local and national levels. She is an asset to our district and very deserving of this honor.

Photo for downloading

Award ceremony photo

Photo cutline: Matt Hardy and Kris Hammer of Eden Prairie Public Schools were among 83 educators honored as TIES Exceptional Teachers at the TIES 2011 Education Technology Conference.