I’m a National Board-certified elementary STEAM educator passionate about nurturing young minds. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching students STEM, academically gifted programs, math, and growth mindset principles. My approach emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and fostering a love for exploration and innovation. I believe in the power of a growth mindset to help children overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Since 2017, I’ve been actively involved in the Michigan Design Prize Challenge, a program I believe truly helps students explore creativity and develop critical problem-solving skills.
I integrate the design challenge into my classroom each year, encouraging my students to think critically, collaborate, and tackle real-world issues. Watching them engage with the design process—planning, testing, and refining their ideas—has been incredibly rewarding.
Over the years, my students have not only succeeded in the competition but have also gained invaluable skills in teamwork, resilience, and creative thinking. For me, the Michigan Design Prize Challenge is an essential tool in shaping the next generation of innovators, and I’m proud to make STEM learning accessible, exciting, and meaningful for all my students.