Michael Arehart has adopted technology wholeheartedly in his classroom and professional life. Through a couple of grants, he has acquired a mini-lab of 10 computers, a data projector, and several TV/VCR units in his classroom. He teaches American History in a way that makes the subject come alive. His focus is on teaching American History through the people who created the history. His students study about history events and the people involved using the Internet and a textbook that has an accompanying CD-ROM. Each student is required to write a biography about 50 people from American history -- 20 of those biographies must be on the Web (the other 30 can be on the Web, in PowerPoint format, or traditional paper reports). He has successfully taught using learning centers, group discussions, and individualized work. When his students leave eighth grade, they not only know American history, but they understand technology applications and are computer technical specialists.

In addition to using technology in his classroom, Michael volunteers his time acting as the school's Webmaster, the school's sysop (technology specialist), and chairperson of the school's technology committee. He is also on the district's technology planning committee. As if this weren't enough, he volunteers his time and teaches staff development classes open to any teacher interested in attending.

Michael is an active member of UCET. He was selected by the USU Center of the Future as a model technology teacher. In addition, Michael represented Utah and Grand County School District at this year's Spotlight School Conference hosted by the U.S. Department of Education back in Washington D.C. It's no wonder that the Superintendent calls him "Mr. Technology."