Two area teachers were recently awarded scholarships to fund interactive distance learning experiences for their classrooms through E2CCB Distance Learning.

Sixth-grade teachers Logan Betts of Chautauqua Lake and Annette Bahun of Eden were two of 31 teachers awarded the funding through the Internet2 Community Anchor Program; this is Bahun’s second award in a row.

“It is exciting to see two of our region’s teachers awarded the 2022 Community Anchor Program Distance Learning Scholarship this year. With these awards, Bahun and Betts will be able to provide their students with engaging virtual field trip experiences beyond our local area,” said Bryan Olson, E2CCB Distance Learning Coordinator. “This innovative use of video conferencing for interactive learning helps students learn about topics in unique ways and allows them to experience how today’s technology is used worldwide for global connection outside of their classroom walls.”

According to Internet2, students, for example, can participate in experiences like dissecting a sheep’s brain to sharpen observation and analysis skills with experts from Adventures In Medicine & Science (AIMS) Program of Saint Louis University or learn about Aztec art, myths, and writing systems from the Cleveland Museum of Art, without ever leaving their classroom.

The scholarship program was open to K-12 teachers from schools connected to Internet2’s national network through their state or regional research and education network, including about 50 percent of all U.S. public schools. Teachers could choose from over 1,900 professionally delivered programs offered through the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration, which connect students to the unique subject matter, artifacts, and experiences.