April 2008 Volunteer Profile
 Jared Mader and Ben Smith
L&L Science Curriculum Specialists
Jared Mader and Ben Smith serve as Science Curriculum Specialists for ISTE’s publication, Learning & Leading with Technology. In this volunteer role, they suggest topics and authors for the magazine, and review and write articles specifically relating to the science field.
Jared is the Director of Technology and Ben is a physics teacher and K–12 science coordinator for the Red Lion School District in Red Lion, Pennsylvania. They have worked together for over five years in the area of technology professional development, leading up to the creation of EdTechInnovators, a website devoted to development of educational technology initiatives for the districts and conferences where they speak. Both of them have been honored as a "Keystone" for the state of Pennsylvania, honoring the best educators using technology.
Jared believes that teaching is a calling rather than a profession and likes being able to see the impact he has had upon individual teachers and school districts in his work for ISTE. Volunteering puts Jared in touch with those people who have the same philosophical beliefs with regards to the importance of technology in an educational setting.
Ben uses the motto, "Physics is Phun" in his classroon and teaches using hands on techniques as well as the technology. Volunteering for ISTE has prompted Ben to explore his own thoughts regarding the use of technology in the classroom from a practical side. His hope is that through presenting and writing he can provide a spark to other educators so they can use technology in meaningful ways.
Jared enjoys archery, fishing, woodworking and volleyball in is off time. He enjoys spending time with his family and traveling with his wife. Ben is currently working his way through a doctoral program in Instructional Technology and enjoys coaching his daughters soccer team, spending time with family, and also traveling with his wife.
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