STEAM + INNOVATION

As the coordinator of the largest STEAM program in the district, I led the implementation of over 50 STEAM elective courses, transforming instructional practices with a focus on challenge-based learning and collaborative methodologies. This initiative was designed to enhance college readiness and prepare students to become leaders in 21st-century education.

The expansion of our STEM program stemmed from our commitment to empowering students through experiential learning. I assembled and mentored a team of highly motivated educators who played a pivotal role in advancing STEAM courses and fostering a collaborative instructional approach. Through regular engagement with STEAM faculty, I facilitated curriculum development and the implementation of shared best practices. Additionally, I established partnerships with universities, businesses, and industry professionals to enhance program success, providing students with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to conduct scientific research in specialized environments.

A critical aspect of my leadership involved guiding a team of teachers in designing new curricula for STEAM courses, ensuring that students engage in rigorous, authentic, college-level coursework. My expertise in STEAM education has also led me to consult with other schools, including Lake View, DePaul College Prep, Deerfield, Lake Forest, Hamilton Elementary, Bell Elementary, and Burley Elementary, assisting them in the development of their STEAM programs.

I initiated the development and design of some of our most dynamic and innovative classrooms. The projects included the Innovation and Creation Lab, Mobile Makers, Robotics Lab, Think Lab, Digital Art Studio, Music Engineering Studio, Film Studio, Yoga Studio, Weight Room, Chemistry Lab and the Artificial Intelligence Incubator. These state-of-the-art spaces transform traditional classrooms into immersive, hands-on learning hubs where students can explore their creativity, develop technical skills, and unlock their full potential.

Lane Tech’s STEM Expansion

Twelve years ago, Lane Tech opened a state-of-the-art STEM wing featuring two multipurpose laboratories, three lecture halls, and an advanced Aquaponics facility. This expansion has significantly enhanced the school’s Alpha STEM curriculum, which now offers over 50 STEM courses, including Aquaponics, Application Development, Engineering, Robotics, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence and the Innovation and Creation Lab. The Alpha STEM program also includes a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses, with many students conducting research at universities and professional laboratories under the mentorship of professors and industry experts.

Lane Tech has also expanded its Computer Science offerings, providing more courses in this field than any other Selective Enrollment High School. These courses include: AP Computer Science A, AP Computer Science Principles, AP Cybersecurity, Android Development ,Physical Computing Lab, Artificial Intelligence, Civil Action through Computer Science, Computational Thinking and Problem Solving, Cybersecurity, Exploring Computer Science, Innovation and Creation Lab: Maker’s Lab, Introduction to Robotics, Makerspace II: Advanced Digital Design and Fabrication, Media Computation, Programming, and Web Development.

One of the most exciting additions to Lane Tech’s STEM facilities is the Innovation and Creation Lab, where students develop prototypes using 3D printers and carvers. The lab is equipped with six 3D carvers, five 3D scanners, and nine 3D printers, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge design and fabrication projects.

Key Responsibilities and Leadership Contributions

Program Development & Curriculum Leadership
- Led the development and implementation of a district-leading STEAM program with over 50 elective courses.
- Designed and executed interdisciplinary instructional frameworks across all grade levels.
- Partnered with educators to integrate technology and innovative teaching strategies into STEAM curricula.
- Served as a consultant to multiple schools and school districts to support the development of their STEAM programs.
Professional Development & Teacher Collaboration
- Provided direct leadership in STEAM content areas to improve student achievement.
- Organized and conducted professional development workshops, seminars, and training sessions for licensed staff.
- Facilitated collaborative meetings with STEAM educators to align curriculum and instructional goals.
Technology Integration & Innovation
- Integrated cutting-edge technologies and challenge-based learning models to enhance student engagement.
- Expanded high-tech learning opportunities, ensuring students gain competencies which prepare them for post secondary education.
- Oversaw the implementation of all new educational technologies.
Strategic Partnerships & Industry Engagement
- Established partnerships with universities, businesses, and industry leaders to enhance STEAM education.
- Provided students with real-world learning opportunities through research collaborations and hands-on projects/experiments.
Program Evaluation & Budget Management
- Collected and analyzed data to assess and refine STEAM program effectiveness.
- Managed budget allocations, expenditures, and financial planning to support program sustainability.
Personnel Leadership & Institutional Representation
- Supervised and evaluated faculty members, ensuring high-quality instruction and program success.
- Represented Lane Tech in professional associations, networks, workshops, and conferences.
- Presented on best practices, instructional innovations, and STEAM advancements at various events.

Through these efforts, I have played a pivotal role in transforming STEAM education at Lane Tech, creating a model for interdisciplinary, technology-driven learning that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.