Each year, the Virginia Society for Technology in Education (VTSE) recognizes exemplary educators who demonstrate innovative educational practices and champion the smart integration of technology. Kim Harrison, Instructional Technology Specialist at Indian Lakes Elementary School, has been named as the 2015 VSTE Innovative Educator of the Year.

Harrison began her career with Virginia Beach City Public Schools in 1987 at Providence Elementary School as a second-grade teacher. She became the Computer Resource Specialist (CRS) at Indian Lakes Elementary School in 1998, and continues her service at the school in the new role of Instructional Technology Specialist (ITS).

In its announcement of 2015 award winners, VTSE noted, “Kim is truly an innovator. She has a passion for sharing virtual environments and was the innovator behind Virginia Beach City Public Schools bringing Minecraft into the elementary classroom. Kim is always ready to jump in and answer any questions from those of us who ‘just don’t get it!’ Kim’s passion for this technology and dedication to bringing this awesome new technology to her young students impresses all who know her.”

VTSE award recipients are selected from nominations submitted by VTSE members throughout Virginia and will be formally recognized at VTSE’s annual Technology in Education conference held Dec. 6-8 at the Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center.