I foster a bridge to integrate academic content with meaningful projects and a relevant and engaging curriculum.
As Amelia Earhart said, “Adventure is worthwhile in itself." My philosophy of education blossoms from my belief that, as a stakeholder, every action as a teacher and faculty member reflects my broader educational philosophy of innovative teaching, learning, and collaboration. I study and research best practices to inspire students and teacher preparation candidates to influence social education, leadership, and social justice, establishing the importance of holistic learning.
Current Position
PLTW and Technology Education Teacher
North Smithfield High School | Jan. 2024–Present | Providence, RI
- Developed and implemented an engaging curriculum for Project Lead The Way (PLTW) courses, emphasizing hands-on learning and real-world applications for architecture and engineering.
- Facilitated student projects that incorporate principles of engineering, computer science, and technology, fostering critical thinking and innovation.
- Collaborated with fellow educators to integrate technology education across various subjects, enhancing interdisciplinary learning.
- Mentored and supported students in developing technical skills and career readiness, providing guidance on projects, competitions, and college preparation.
- Utilized state-of-the-art technology and tools to create a dynamic and interactive classroom environment, staying current with industry trends and advancements.
Teaching Experience
Director of STEAM Program
Lincoln School | Jul. 2021–Present | Providence, RI
- Developed and implemented an integrated STEAM curriculum, enhancing student engagement and fostering cross-disciplinary learning.
- Led professional development workshops for faculty, ensuring effective delivery of STEAM education principles and practices.
- Coordinated with community partners and industry experts to provide students with real-world STEAM experiences and mentorship opportunities.
- Secured funding and resources for STEAM projects through grant writing and cultivating relationships with donors and sponsors.
- Organized and oversaw STEAM-related events, showcasing student achievements and promoting community involvement.
Associate Professor (Promotion and Tenure Granted, Spring 2011)
Henry Barnard Laboratory School | Dec. 2005–Jun. 2021 | Providence, RI
- Technology Education and STEAM Teacher
- Department Chair, Henry Barnard Laboratory School
- D.A.C Faculty, Henry Barnard Laboratory School
- HBS Principal Advisory Committee
- HBS Professional Development Committee
- Council of Rhode Island College; At Large
- HBS/Rhode Island College Departmental Technology Liaison
Adjunct Professor
Rhode Island College | Sep. 2006–May 2018 | Providence, RI
Technology Education Undergraduate Courses
- TECH 407-01: Practicum in Elementary Technology Education (K-6)
- TECH 408-01: Practicum in Elementary Technology Education (7-12)
Clinical Supervisor
Rhode Island College | Sep. 2006–May 2018 | Providence, RI
Elementary Education M.A.T.
- ELED 537: Science M.A.T. Practicum (Spring, Fall)
Corporate Trainer
Corporate Software | May 2000–Jul. 2023 | Norwood, MA
- Used webinars to assess, develop, and deliver customer skills on software and licensing, optimizing the Microsoft product experience.
Education
PLTW Certification
PLTW | May 2024 | Providence, RI
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- Certification in Architecture and Engineering
B.S. Technology Education
Rhode Island College | May 2005 | Providence, RI
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- Certification: Technology Education K-12
- Endorsement: ESL (7-12)
M.S. Communications Technology
Rhode Island College | May 1997 | Providence, RI
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- Thesis: “The Accessibility of Educational Content in the Online Context”
B.S. Industrial Technology
Rhode Island College | May 1994 | Providence, RI
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- Minor: Studio Art
Research Interests
The Art in STEAM
I am assessing the benefits of incorporating art as a central component in STEAM. Art enhances the learning of concepts and builds technical skills in underserved curricula, improving students’ mastery of design and cross-disciplinary communication.
STEAM Education and Social Justice
I am chronicling the role of STEAM education in improving students’ success rates. My focus is on how STEAM education can enhance students’ educational prospects. In the 2017 edition of Catalyst, Webb and Barrera noted that “Education improves students’ lives by providing means to overcome the inequities of school and society, and it is the responsibility of teachers to see that this happens for every learner.” Central Falls/RIC Innovation Lab Collaboration.
Robotics: Integrating Science Technology Curriculum in K-12
Learning styles in a technology-rich environment: an educational environment with a constructivist approach to learning.
Resources
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- LaPorte, J.E., & Sanders, M.E. (1995). Foundations of Technology Education: Forty-Fourth Yearbook of the Council on Technology Teacher Education, 179-219. Lake Forest, IL: Glencoe.
- De Vries, M.J. (1996). Technology Education: Beyond the ‘Technology is Applied Science’ Paradigm”. Journal of Technology Education, 8(1), 7-15.
Completed Projects
Aerodynamic Lab: 4th and 5th Grade
The students use an aeronautical wind tunnel to explore the world of math, science, and technology. The wind tunnel simulates airflow over models such as:
- Aircraft
- Automobiles
- Buildings
- Bridges
Geodesic Dome Greenhouse Project
Students build a Geodesic Dome Greenhouse as a living laboratory for the discovery of nature and health. The dome is an ideal environment that makes it possible to grow food year-round, enhancing STEAM studies.
Your World, Our Story: Foodies 4th and 5th Grade 2013
Integrating curriculum areas with cooking and the socialization/organizational aspects of cooking. Otto, L., Arango, J., Percoco, V. (2010). Foodies Curriculum Guide. United States of America: Thinking and Doing Media.
Courses: Spring 2012
PLTW: Project Lead the Way – Introduction to Engineering Design (10-12), PLTW: Principles of Engineering (11-12), PLTW: Computer Integrated Manufacturing (11-12)