Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert named Woman of the Year

The annual Woman of the Year ceremony has been celebrating California’s extraordinary women since 1987, and this year the assembly chose to honor education and technology advocate and Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert Tammy Dunbar as the 2016 California Woman of the Year for the 12th Assembly district.

Proud of @TammyDunbar and inspired by all that you do for #edtech. Thank you! https://t.co/rBKMwTAW7F #MIEExpert pic.twitter.com/8xdThP64LJ

— Microsoft Education (@MicrosoftEDU) March 15, 2016

Dunbar is a fifth grade teacher in the Manteca Unified School District and an instructor at the Teachers College of San Joaquin in Stockton, California. She believes in a “student-first, project-based learning model” and is a strong advocate for incorporating technology into the classroom. As one of 11 teachers nationwide to be named a Microsoft Innovative Educational Expert Regional Lead, she has also trained thousands of teachers on digital technology integration and her efforts have garnered her many awards, including being named Teacher of the Year at Manteca Unified School District. According to assembly member Kristin Olsen, “Tammy is a role model for teachers and students alike, she has contributed greatly to the advancement of technology in education, and her impact will be felt for years to come.”

According to assembly member Kristin Olsen, “Tammy is a role model for teachers and students alike, she has contributed greatly to the advancement of technology in education, and her impact will be felt for years to come”. Dunbar herself released the following statement:

“I am humbled and honored to be recognized by Assembly member Olsen who understands that teaching is not a job; it’s a vocation. We are called to help students discover their strengths, skills and gifts while helping them realize each one has a genius the world needs. I am proud to nurture life-long learners who realize life’s challenges must be embraced with enthusiasm and joy.”

This celebration is not only acknowledging Dunbar’s outstanding community service but also shining the light on Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts program that today counts 3,700 educator visionaries around the globe who work closely with Microsoft to lead innovation in education. Don’t hesitate to check Microsoft Education website and also Tammy Dunbar’s own website if you want to know more!