Pub. 9 2019-2020 Issue 3

12 Sumeyra Gul has been a computer science teacher with Beehive Science and Technology Academy since 2016. In March 2019, Ms. Gul was given the Utah Coalition for Educational Technology (UCET) Outstanding Teacher Award. She oversees the school’s two CyberPatriot teams—one coed, and the second one that’s all-female. Ms. Gul oversees the Girls Who Code Club. She mentors and encourages her female students to compete for the National Center for Women and Information Technology Award for Aspirations in Computing. “Ms. Gul is an innovative teacher who learns emerging educational technology and implements this technology in her classes. She also helps support and train fellow teachers to increase student learning across the school. She has been a pioneer in implementing some creative teaching and learning tools, and in helping other teachers to learn from her best practices through professional learning communities and training. She shares her expertise with other school teachers by inviting them to her classroom and workshops.” For her work in computer science education, involving females in STEM activities, and expanding the reach of technology competitions for her students, Ms. Gul is the Innovator of the Year. Innovator of the Year: Sumeyra Gul, Computer Science Teacher, Beehive Science & Technology Academy Business Manager of the Year: Roger Simpson, Voyage Academy Roger Simpson is a problem solver with a desire to mitigate strain on administration. Mr. Simpson is eager and willing to tackle obstacles and eliminate barriers. Financially, Mr. Simpson is always prepared. He keeps the school in line with state-mandated regulations and outperforms on audits. Mr. Simpson keeps the administration and board informed of financial information and ensures understanding. He is always trying to find ways to make loads lighter, jobs easier, and employment more efficient. He has a very level head, and maintains professionalism at all times. Because of Mr. Simpson’s expertise, he is often sought for advice from surrounding charter schools and districts. Mr. Simpson meets deadlines and maintains compliance with state reporting. For his excellence in business management, Roger Simpson is the Business Manager of the Year.