Teacher: grade 6

North Decatur Elementary School
Greensburg, IN

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES AND AWARDS:

For David Sell who teaches science at North Decatur Elementary School in Greensburg, the "thirst for knowledge" is the most important prerequisite for an effective educator. It is an educator's role, he believes, to communicate that "thirst" and to instill it as a lifelong pursuit. Mr. Sell is equally committed to a technology-based curriculum that prepares students for the future. He urges computer literacy for both students and colleagues. He also encourages students to design and create models of rockets, futuristic homes and buildings, and to develop their own inventions. The "4th Grade Rocket Club," which he initiated at North Decatur Elementary School, is a year-long aerospace study program that allows students to research and construct rockets that are launched on "Super Launch Saturday," an annual event that gathers students and their families in a grand and exciting finale.