Teacher Feature: February 2024

Kelsey Stiles

STEM Lab Teacher

Sully Elementary School, Loudon County Public Schools

Kelsey was a member of the first STEM Teacher Leadership Academy cohort in 2023!

1. What led you to becoming a STEM Lab Teacher, and what did you teach prior to that role?

Prior to moving into this role, I spent six years teaching 3rd Grade. As a 3rd Grade teacher, I loved giving students hands-on experiences and lessons that were rigorous and stretched their thinking. I also saw how students would struggle with science, as they were often simultaneously learning English. My goal as a classroom teacher was to always make science accessible. I became a STEM Lab teacher because I believe that all students should have access to high quality science instruction in the K-5 setting.

2. What is a typical day like for a STEM Lab Teacher in your division? Do you have set class periods with students, or is it more a collaborative effort with other classroom teachers (or both)?

This role is somewhat new to our county, so there is some flexibility in how schools utilize the position. I teach Kindergarten and 1st for 25 minutes every other week, and 2-5 for 50 minutes every other week. In addition to teaching STEM classes, I collaborate with grade-level teams to help them design rigorous, hands-on science in their classrooms based on the 5E model. I also teach STEM classes adapted for our special education programs and lead an afterschool STEM program for 4th and 5th grade students. My administration really believes in the power of opportunity and I have been able to give that to many students!

3. What has been your favorite lesson, project, or activity that you have shared with students in the past year?

My favorite activity is a fourth grade water quality lesson. We start by bringing in Nature Forward to discuss the pollutants that affect our watershed. Then we complete a lab -  testing the pH, temperature, and turbidity of both high quality water and water that has been polluted. As engineers, students have to design a water filter to clean the polluted water. Students are always shocked that they are able to get their dirty water back to clear with their design!

4. What is your favorite part about your job?

My favorite part of my job is watching students make connections and listening to their questions. They are constantly excited by the connections they make from their life to the science classroom. They are curious about the world around them and I get a front row seat to see them discover.

Thank you so much, Kelsey!