If you want to see a social studies lesson come alive, stop into the fifth-grade classroom of Bells Elementary School teacher James Cho. The technology that he integrates (Edmodo for blogging, Blendspace for informal assessments, Emaze for presentations, Edpuzzle for video presentations, and Nearpod and Todaysmeet for interactive discussions) has placed him in an exceptional category, especially during the recent move to virtual learning. Cho’s exemplary teaching also has earned him recognition as the 2020 New Jersey Council for Social Studies (NJCSS) Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Cho was selected to present an informational workshop at the NJCSS state conference in March 2017 and again in October 2020, where he shared his expertise in infusing technology into a social studies lesson seamlessly to enhance instruction and learning to more than 400 educators in each conference.

“James Cho is a life-long learner who annually discovers ways incorporate new technologies in meaningful ways,” District elementary education supervisor Christine Gehringer said. “He loves teaching others what he knows about social studies and how to use technology to improve student learning. He welcomes the opportunity to present social studies teaching strategies formally through workshops or conferences. He was instrumental in writing curriculum for multiple grade levels, reflecting the recently revised New Jersey social studies standards and serves as an instructional leader supporting teachers with the implementation of the standards. We are fortunate to have such an accomplished teacher as part of our educational team.”

“James Cho is an incredibly motivating teacher,” said Bells principal Ginny Grier of the school’s 2014-15 Teacher of the Year. “His lessons are student-centered, which keeps students engaged. His enthusiasm for the subject matter is contagious and shows in his students' work. His interest in his students makes his students feel valued and respected.”