Dr. Erika K. Poarch

I am the Blended Learning Coach for the four elementary schools within the Reynolds District. My primary job is to support teachers as they blend online and offline activities to better serve all students in their classrooms. I believe that students who are actively engaged in enjoyable lessons are more motivated to stay on task and learn key information.

I am a graduate of Reynolds High School and consider Asheville to be my hometown, though I've also been fortunate to live in Virginia, Florida, Louisiana, Hawaii, and New Zealand. My undergraduate degree is in Environmental Science from UNC-Chapel Hill and I hold a Master's in Wildlife & Fisheries Biology from Clemson University. I graduated from Louisiana State University with both an EdS and PhD in Curriculum and Instruction, with an emphasis on science education.

My doctoral research examined learning motivation and learning conversations at the North Carolina Aquarium; I was particularly interested in increasing science-based discussions among family groups with K-5 children. I have also published and presented on in-person field trips, virtual field trips, and enhancing student engagement in online courses.

My experience as an educator began at the NC Aquarium, where I taught all ages about the environment through aquarium tours, kayaking, fishing, and surfing classes-- I believe that "learning by doing" in a hands-on, feet-wet setting just can't be beat! While in Louisiana, I taught environmental science, Earth science, and AP environmental science at the high school level for over 5 years before returning to the mountains. During the 2019-2020 school year, I was named "Teacher of the Year" for my parish (or county, if you don't live in Louisiana). I have also taught courses in biology and education at both the undergraduate and graduate level.

As a Blended Learning Coach, I strongly believe that there are times when pencil-and-paper and hands-on manipulatives are simply the best way for students to learn; I also know that digital tools can enhance learning in meaningful ways. A few of my favorite digital teaching tools include PearDeck, Kami, Minecraft, and Thinglink.

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to work with the talented teachers, visionary administrators, dedicated staff, and amazing children at each of the Reynolds elementary schools. If you have any questions about technology integration or blended learning, please send me a message!