Cupertino Company Names 'Apple Distinguished Educator' to a Local Teacher

Apple gave its Apple Distinguished Educator award to a Los Altos School District teacher, as "one of the most innovative educators in the world."

Ellen Kraska, District Technology Integration Coach, works to support and coach all K-8 teachers in Los Altos School District (LASD) on effectively integrating technology seamlessly into their instruction, Jeffrey Baier, Superintendent of LASD, in a written statement.

A video provided by the district shows a glimpse of her accomplishments in her first year as a Technology Integration Coach, a position paid for by the Los Altos Education Foundation (LAEF).

"I am extremely proud of Ellen Kraska’s selection," said Baier, in the statement. “Ellen stays abreast of current technology and how that technology can improve student learning."

"Professionals like Ellen continue to make LASD a nationally-recognized leader in educational innovation.” 

According to the district's news release, the Apple Distinguished Educator (ADE) Program began in 1994, when Apple recognized K-12 and higher education pioneers who are using a variety of Apple products to transform teaching and learning in powerful ways.

There are 2,000 visionary educators and leaders who are harnessing technology in and out of the classroom.

Kraska joins LASD teacher Samantha Nguyen (Almond School, grade 5) who became an Apple Distinguished Educator in 2007.

"I am thrilled and honored to be recognized as an Apple Distinguished Educator," Kraska said, in the statement. "Joining this community of educators will enable me to learn even more about how we can make learning engaging, creative and meaningful for our students.”