Annual Awards
ITEC annually seeks nominations for the Sypersma Leadership and Innovation Award. Nominees should be educators who champion the innovative use of technology across the state of Iowa. ITEC recognizes that champions exist in all areas of education. This award will recognize teachers, administrators, instructional leaders, technicians, etc.
ITEC Champions should be nominated by a colleague using the above form. You will have the opportunity to brag about your nominee’s accomplishments, contributions and impacts on their school, district or organization. You will need to provide links to one (and up to five) artifacts supporting your nomination; such as articles, handouts, websites and other materials.
Nominations are reviewed by the ITEC Awards Committee. The final selections are recommended to the ITEC Exec team for confirmation.
Sypersma Leadership and Innovation Awards will be presented at the ITEC Annual Fall Conference taking place October 21-22, 2024. Nominations must be submitted by Monday, September 9, 2024 and awardees will be notified by Friday, September 20, 2024.
Please note: Vendors are not eligible.
Thank you in advance for taking the time to nominate someone for this award!
2023 Sypersma Leadership and Innovation Award Winners
Julie Kirkpatrick
Julie Kirkpatrick teaches computer science and math at Cedar Falls High School, where she has been for the past 7 years. She now coaches the 525 Swartdogs Robotics Team out of Cedar Falls, and she loves to help guide the students in building and competing with that years’ robot. She’s passionate about student centered learning and creative technology. When not at school or the buildsite, she’s usually with her husband and her 3 cats, embarking on nerdy adventures.
Sue Klein
Sue Klein is a K-8 technology teacher at Remsen St. Mary’s School. She has been employed at the school since 1982, working from 1982-1989 as a sixth grade classroom teacher and from 1989-present as a computer teacher and technology coordinator. She also has been the junior high athletic director for St. Mary’s and has held various junior high coaching positions. She is currently in her 42 year of coaching high school girls golf.
Beth Smith
Beth Smith, a kindergarten teacher at Lewis Central Community School District in Council Bluffs, IA, brings joy and creativity to the classroom every day. Beth enjoys spending her free time camping and exploring nature with her family. With 18 years of teaching experience, Beth has made a lasting impact on the education landscape of her community. Having graduated from the very district she now teaches in, Beth’s connection to her students and their families runs deep. She understands the unique needs and aspirations of her students, allowing her to tailor her teaching approach to ensure every child thrives. Her enthusiasm for education, love for nature, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of her students make Beth Smith a remarkable teacher and role model..