professional development

TEACHER INNOVATOR INSTITUTE

In 2023, I was selected for the TII Cohort, chosen as 1 of 30 educators out of 200+ applicants. I traveled to Washington, D.C. for two consecutive summers to participate in an intensive two-week professional development program, and in my third summer, I returned as a presenter, sharing strategies and outcomes from my work.

NATURE TO THE CLASSROOM

I co-presented as part of a Nature in the Classroom team presentation, where I shared how ham radio can be used as a powerful, real-world STEM tool for students. My portion focused on connecting wireless communication to environmental science and engineering by showing how classrooms can integrate weather balloon projects—including planning launches, tracking data, and using communication systems to make learning hands-on, interdisciplinary, and exciting.

AI Introduction and Implementation Grant (Dec 2024)

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ARRIS Ham Radio Grant

My coworker and I was awarded a $45,000 grant to support STEM and computer science learning in partnership with Native American communities. The project began with the Navajo Nation and later transitioned to the Choctaw Nation, where we taught students about Morse code and ham radio as hands-on ways to explore communication systems, problem-solving, and real-world technology.

CSTA - Inequality Conference (January 2023)

I was selected as a member of one of Utah’s first Computer Science Equity Cohorts, where I collaborated with computer science educators across the state to strengthen inclusive, engaging CS instruction. Through this cohort, I focused on designing hands-on and unplugged learning experiences that help students—especially those who don’t initially see themselves in computer science—connect to core concepts in meaningful ways. I contributed classroom-tested strategies such as teaching algorithms through an iterative Rube Goldberg design challenge and teaching game storytelling through storyboarding and stop-motion filmmaking, both aimed at increasing access, engagement, and real understanding for all learners.

Four Corners Convening Conference+Let’s Talk Code (24)

I attended the Four Corners Annual conference in Durango, Colorado.