Massapequa Fifth Grade Teacher Wins Nassau Technology Award

MASSAPEQUA, NY — A Massapequa fifth-grade teacher was named a star this month, becoming a Nassau Association of School Technologists Award Recipient, abbreviated as NASTAR.

Christopher Kiernan, a fifth-grade teacher at Fairfield Elementary, was nominated for the award by computer teaching assistant Crissy Mullooly, winning the award that recognizes educators’ use of technology to support their students’ learning outcomes.

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In Kiernan’s case, the fifth-grade teacher said he uses a new piece of technology every year in efforts to diversify his teaching efforts. This year, it was AI, with Kiernan using Magic School’s AI chatbot to help students research. The AI bot, district officials said, allowed students to “interact” with historical figures and ask them questions.

Additionally, district officials said Kiernan’s students used Padlet, Book Creator and Canva when working on presentations and writing projects.

“It is an honor to receive this award, and being at the awards reception was amazing because I got to hear how other educators in all different roles utilize technology with their students," Kiernan said. "This award is special to me because I could not have done it without my coworkers.”

In an announcement of the award, Kiernan thanked Mullooly and tech learning coach Jennifer Emberley, both of whom supported his journey to bring technology into the classroom to help students.

In her letter of nomination, Mullooly said Kiernan, a Massapequa high school graduate, was a model of adaptability and innovation in the classroom.

“Known for his enthusiasm and initiative, Mr. Kiernan consistently embraces new instructional technologies as they are introduced, modeling innovation and adaptability for both students and colleagues,” Mullooly said. “His thoughtful leadership and purposeful use of digital tools make him a standout technology innovator and a truly deserving NASTAR award recipient.”