Over the past year I’ve had the opportunity to engage more deeply with the work of the STEMx network – getting to know members and their priorities and diving into some of the issues affecting STEM across the country.
Together with other members of the Battelle team, we have established a vision for STEMx: To advance quality STEM education for all by increasing the capacity of state STEM networks, advocating for STEM as a national priority, and amplifying effective education practices nationwide.
Today, I’m pleased to share that this work will become my priority as I transition from leading to the Ohio STEM Learning Network to focus on STEMx full time.
I’ve been at Battelle for the last seven years working directly with school administrators and teachers to create and scale innovative practices in classrooms and communities across Ohio. I led the Ohio STEM Learning Network for the last three years - growing the number of STEM designated schools from 55 to 82 and collaborating with the Ohio Department of Education to revamp the state’s STEM school designation process. I’ve been involved in workforce and career exploration programs through our Manufacturing and Engineering Externship grant through the Office of Naval Research and funding from the United States Department of Agriculture to help science teachers teach their standards through the lens of agriculture and problem-based learning. I will take what I have learned to advance STEM nationally.
STEMx was the first national network designed to amplify the voices of state STEM leaders. I aim for it to become the strongest STEM network in the country and make a difference for students everywhere.
We look to recruit STEM leaders from every state. Together, we have an unprecedented opportunity to lift our collective voice and advocate for STEM as a national priority while creating a professional learning community to close gaps in access, talent, and skills across the nation. There is more work than any one of us can do alone. We can embrace the spirit of collaboration over competition and help each other do what’s best for students. I’m so excited to begin this journey with all of you.
Sincerely,
Heather Sherman
Director, STEMx national network
