Kenna Barger
Randolph County Vocational Technical Center
Elkins, West Virginia

"My teaching approach can best be described by quoting Goethe: 'Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.' "

Students enter Kenna's M-PACT Classroom which models her philosophy on learning. M-PACT = Mathematics with Purpose (why learn the concept?), Application (applying & understanding), Context (how it connects to other learning), and Technology (experiencing the world as the classroom). This program now serves as a model for teaching math to ALL students throughout West Virginia. In addition, Kenna uses M-PACT in her work to also stand for Mathematics through Parents, Administrators, Community and Teachers.

"Parent involvement is also an integral part of her curriculum. Numerous parent nights involve parents in instruction and presentations by students. Kenna is certainly on the cutting edge of education and exemplifies the educator of the new millennium."

"Kenna's unique teaching method motivates students and colleagues on a local, state and national level. Her method enables students to link their interests, learning styles and career interests with mathematics. She teaches students to love learning, and most importantly, love him/herself. A true educator!"

Other Highlights:

• Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics, 1998, 2000, 2001
• West Virginia Council of Mathematics Teacher of the Year, 1999
• Randolph County's Teacher of the Year, 1997
• West Virginia Mathematics Leadership Team
• Coordinator of Randolph County High Schools That Work
• Developed and published materials on Applied Geometry
• Consultant in mathematics for numerous school districts in and out of the state
• Mathematics consultant for Southern Region Education Board (SREB)
• Community Youth Soccer Coach
• Member of Randolph County's Business and Professional Women
• NEA Member