Immersive Bio: A Lifelong Commitment to STEAM, Computer Science, and Inclusive Makerspace Education

Introduction

For over 25 years, my journey in education has been fueled by an unwavering passion for computer science, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics), and inclusive Makerspace education. My mission is clear: to make technology education accessible to all, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in students from all walks of life. This passion has driven me to dedicate my career to not just teaching, but also to advocating for the inclusion of cutting-edge technologies, like Computer-Aided Design (CAD), in early childhood education.

The Importance of Early CAD Education

In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, it is imperative that even the youngest learners are equipped with the tools and skills to navigate and shape the future. CAD, often perceived as a tool for engineers and architects, is, in fact, a powerful medium for fostering creativity and problem-solving skills in children. Through platforms like Tinkercad and Makers Empire, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of CAD in the classroom. These tools demystify complex engineering processes, allowing students to experiment, iterate, and bring their ideas to life in a tangible way.

Introducing CAD at an early age does more than just teach students how to design in 3D. It nurtures a mindset that is curious, innovative, and unafraid to tackle complex challenges. When students are given the opportunity to engage with CAD, they are not just learning a technical skill—they are developing the confidence to approach problems from multiple angles, to think creatively, and to see failure as a stepping stone to success.

Career Journey and Experience

My career began in the classroom, where I quickly realized the immense potential that technology had to transform education. I started by teaching basic computer science principles, but it wasn’t long before I expanded my focus to include a wider range of STEAM subjects. I saw how students, especially those from inner-city schools, could benefit from exposure to these fields, not just as a way to enhance their academic performance, but as a means of opening doors to future careers they might never have considered.

One of the most rewarding experiences of my career has been teaching inner-city students during summer school programs focused on Computer Science Career exploration. These programs have been instrumental in sparking a love for computer science in students who might not have otherwise been exposed to it. By providing them with hands-on experience and real-world applications, I have been able to show these students that a career in technology is not only attainable but also exciting and fulfilling.

Integration of CAD and Makerspace in Education

As my career progressed, I became increasingly interested in the intersection of design and technology. This led me to explore the world of CAD and 3D printing, and how these technologies could be integrated into the classroom. Tinkercad and Makers Empire became my go-to platforms for teaching CAD to students of all ages. These tools are user-friendly and accessible, making them perfect for introducing complex concepts in a way that is engaging and fun.

In my classroom, CAD is not just a subject—it’s a tool for exploration and innovation. I integrate CAD into a variety of projects, from designing simple 3D models to creating complex engineering solutions. By incorporating design thinking into the curriculum, I encourage students to think critically about the problems they are trying to solve and to use the engineering process to develop and refine their ideas.

One of the key benefits of teaching CAD through Tinkercad and Makers Empire is that it allows students to see the direct results of their work. They can design a model, print it using a 3D printer, and hold the final product in their hands. This tangible outcome is incredibly motivating for students, as it gives them a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work.

Advocacy for Sustainability Education

In addition to my work in the classroom, I am also deeply committed to advocating for sustainability education. As a member of the K-12 Offshore Wind Energy Project Advisory Panel, I work to ensure that sustainability is a key component of the curriculum. I believe that it is our responsibility as educators to prepare students for the future, and that includes teaching them about the importance of renewable energy and environmental stewardship.

Through my work on the advisory panel, I have been able to collaborate with other educators, industry professionals, and policymakers to develop and promote educational programs that focus on sustainability. These programs not only teach students about the science behind renewable energy but also encourage them to think critically about how their actions impact the environment.

Leadership and Advocacy in Computer Science Education

My commitment to computer science education extends beyond the classroom. As a member of the CSTA (Computer Science Teachers Association) Reflective Teacher Committee and a leader in CSTANJ (Computer Science Teachers Association of New Jersey), I am actively involved in driving creativity, critical thinking, and digital literacy for both students and educators. These roles have allowed me to contribute to the development of computer science curriculum standards and to advocate for policies that support the integration of computer science education in schools across the country.

In these leadership roles, I work to ensure that educators have the resources and support they need to effectively teach computer science. I also strive to create opportunities for professional development, so that teachers can continue to grow and evolve in their practice. By empowering educators, I believe we can create a ripple effect that will ultimately lead to more students having access to high-quality computer science education.

Instructional Innovation and Curriculum Development

As an Instructional Innovator, Systems Administrator, and Yearbook Moderator at Saint Raphael School, I have had the opportunity to shape the educational experience of students in a variety of ways. My role as an Instructional Innovator allows me to experiment with new teaching methods and technologies, always with the goal of enhancing student learning and engagement. Whether it’s integrating CAD into the curriculum or finding new ways to incorporate digital literacy into the classroom, I am constantly looking for ways to push the boundaries of traditional education.

Curriculum development is another area where I have been able to make a significant impact. I have worked on developing a comprehensive Computer Science and Design Thinking curriculum for students in grades K-8. This curriculum not only covers the basics of computer science but also emphasizes the importance of design thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. By introducing these concepts at an early age, I am helping to prepare students for the challenges of the future, both in their academic careers and in the workforce.

Presenting at ISTE Live 24: Harnessing the Power of Virtual Makerspaces

In addition to my work in the classroom and my advocacy efforts, I have also had the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with a broader audience through presentations and workshops. One of the highlights of my career was presenting a deep-dive workshop titled "Harness the Power of Virtual Makerspaces to Create Equitable Access to STEAM!" at ISTE Live 24 in Denver. This workshop was an incredible opportunity to showcase the potential of virtual Makerspaces in providing all students with access to high-quality STEAM education, regardless of their geographic location or resources.

During this workshop, I delved into the various tools and platforms available for creating virtual Makerspaces, demonstrating how they can be used to engage students in hands-on STEAM activities even when physical Makerspaces are not available. I also discussed the importance of equity in education and how virtual Makerspaces can help bridge the gap for students in under-resourced schools or remote areas. The positive feedback from attendees reinforced my belief in the power of virtual Makerspaces as a tool for creating equitable access to STEAM education.

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

My mission has always been to make technology education accessible to all students, regardless of their background or circumstances. I believe that every student has the potential to be an innovator, and it is our job as educators to provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to realize that potential. Through my work with Qweebi as a STEM Teacher Advisor and my involvement with CSTANJ as a Chapter Leader and Webmaster, I have been able to reach a wider audience and to advocate for the importance of STEM and computer science education at the state and national levels.

In my role as a Qweebi STEM Teacher Advisor, I provide guidance and support to teachers who are looking to integrate STEM education into their classrooms. I help them navigate the challenges of implementing new technologies and provide them with resources and strategies to engage their students. This work is incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to share my passion for STEM education with other educators and to help them inspire the next generation of innovators.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my career, I am proud of the impact I have made in the field of education. From teaching inner-city students to exploring careers in computer science, to advocating for sustainability and integrating CAD into the classroom, my journey has been one of continuous growth and learning. I am committed to continuing this work, to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in education, and to making sure that every student has the opportunity to succeed in the digital world.

The future of education is bright, and I am excited to be a part of it. By continuing to advocate for the inclusion of CAD, computer science, and STEAM education in schools, I believe we can prepare our students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we can empower the next generation of innovators, problem solvers, and leaders, and help them build a better, more sustainable future.