ABOUT THE AWARD

The Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award is given annually in recognition of outstanding contributions to creative and innovative use of technology in education by K-12 educators or district-level education personnel. Every year, The Astronauts Memorial Foundation, in collaboration with NASA and the Space Foundation, selects a teacher who exhibits extraordinary inspiration for students to learn about Science and Technology in the classroom. This award is presented at the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, CO.

Alan Shepard, one of the nation’s original seven Mercury astronauts, was the first American to fly in space, one of only 12 humans who have walked on the moon, and a former AMF board member. The award named after him recognizes excellence, quality and innovation in the development and application of technology in the classroom or to the professional development of teachers.

2024 ASTEA WINNER: JENNIFER DUFFER

Jennifer is dedicated to cultivating students' problem-solving skills and empowering them with the essential knowledge and competencies that prepare them for their future. When working with teachers she encourages educators to cultivate skills that seamlessly intertwine technology with pedagogy, fostering vibrant and interactive learning environments for students. Jennifer is deeply passionate about education.

With a steadfast commitment to creating a culture of curricular and technological innovation within the school district, she strives to equip students and teachers with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

For over 15 years Jennifer has been privileged to engage with students and educators across diverse K-12 settings. She embarked on her educational journey as a first grade classroom teacher, but eager to explore new horizons, Jennifer transitioned seamlessly into a role as a junior high teacher and coach. Her career trajectory led her to Montgomery ISD, where she distinguished herself as an Engineering & Robotics teacher at Montgomery High School for seven years. During this time she spearheaded innovative initiatives, igniting students' curiosity and fueling their passion for STEM exploration.

Jennifer’s most notable innovative achievement culminated in the establishment of the Montgomery High School Aerospace Engineering & Bear Force Airplane Build Program where students successfully constructed three Van’s RV-12 airplanes. Under her guidance, and with the support of her team of dedicated volunteer mentors, students embarked on an extraordinary journey, where they not only gained invaluable hands-on experience but also cultivated a profound sense of teamwork and dedication while building an airplane. By bridging the gap between theory and practice this program pushes the boundaries of traditional education, offering students a learning experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Personally this project allowed Jennifer to achieve her goal of earning her Private Pilot License (PPL). She trained and flies in one of the airplanes built by her students. Since receiving her PPL Jennifer has taken numerous students on experience flights.

Throughout her life, Jennifer has exhibited a profound passion for space exploration. As a middle school student, she attended Space Camp, where her already growing enthusiasm for space was energized. Later, she participated in the Space Camp for educators program. Jennifer’s dedication to space education extends further as a 7 year attendee at the Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC), and in 2018 was selected as a SEEC Crew member. Along with an Orion Navigation Engineer Jennifer has led multiple hands on learning sessions at SEEC. She also collaborates with other educators as a member of the Space FoundationTeacher Liaison program. Jennifer’s involvement in these programs allow her to deepen her knowledge and engagement in space-related educational initiatives, and work along side industry professionals to provide professional development for other educators.

Jennifer has been in her current role as an Innovative Learning Specialist (ILS) in Montgomery ISD since 2022. As an ILS She is dedicated to facilitating growth experiences for teachers through co-teaching and planning projects that utilize innovative approaches to learning and technology use in the classroom. Jennifer also facilitates professional development to all MISD teachers at all ten campuses K-12. These professional development sessions empower teachers to develop skills that encourage and enhance how they integrate technology in their classroom. Her expertise includes leveraging technology & digital tools toempower students and teachers to foster active learning environments.

PAST RECIPIENTS

2023 Rachel Harrington
2022 Dan Saldana
2020 Kaci Heins
2019 Jill Gilford
2018 Diego Martinez
2017 Ashlie Blackstone Smith
2016 Margaret Rhule Baguio
2015 June Scobee Rodgers, Ph.D.
2014 Lynne F. Zielinski
2013 Daniel R. Newmyer
2012 Dr. Cynthia D. Waters
2011 James E. Richmond
2010 Allen V. Robnett
2009 Ricardo V. Soria
2008 Kevin L. Simmons
2007 Luther W. Richardson
2006 Kathy R. Brandon
2005 Ronald F. Dantowitz
2004 Charles Geach
2003 Brian Copes
2002 Thomas F. Hunt, Frank E. Waller
2001 Lori Byrne