Every year, 150 educators from around the world are selected for the Google for Education Certified Innovator Program. The program is designed to recognize teachers who have a desire to benefit their classrooms and local communities with technology, in addition to building leadership skills and professional growth. Penn Manor School District technology trainer Judy Keller, better known to students and staff members as "the Google goddess," was chosen as one of this year's Certified Innovators. Keller flew to Amsterdam on Nov. 1 to complete a 12-month training program at the Google Academy.

Keller said she considered applying for the Certified Innovator Program for several years, but she was waiting for the right time to take on such a large endeavor. Keller spent seven and a half months working on her application, which required her to present a challenge that is currently facing educators, including why it's an important issue and how schools can approach it. Keller chose social media literacy for children as the focus of her project. "There's almost nothing out there for younger kids to gain social media literacy," Keller said. "I think a piece of the puzzle is missing."

Keller had to approach her application carefully, as applicants who suggest a solution to the problem are not considered. The Google Academy uses a process called the Design Sprint, which involves a fast-paced environment where a small team of innovators collaborates to develop a tested solution to a problem.

Before flying out of the country, Keller prepared by conducting interviews and getting ideas for the project so she could hit the ground running. "I hope to be clear on what my problem is and how to start working on it," Keller said. "I want to come home and really dig in, and I'd love to work with legislators, school administrators and parents. Everybody is concerned about social media and mental health."

Despite traveling to a place she's never been before to participate in a rigorous, yearlong training program, Keller said she isn't daunted. Before Keller became an educator, she worked as a travel agent, and she has many friends and colleagues around the globe. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Keller joined Global GEG, an international organization that provides online training resources for educators. One of Keller's close friends, whom she met through Global GEG and spoke to every week during the pandemic, is also attending the Certified Innovator Program in Amsterdam, giving the two an opportunity to meet in person for the first time.

Although Keller is excited to attend the Google Academy in Amsterdam, she said she has no intention of leaving her position at Penn Manor School District. "Some people tell me, 'Google's going to hire you,' and I say, 'I love my job,'" said Keller. "I love working with the teachers, and I just love seeing the lightbulbs go off in the kids' eyes when they get engaged in a lesson."