Dis. 47 STEM teacher named PLTW Master Teacher
Husmann Elementary STEM teacher Emily Schaefer was recently named a 2015 Master Teacher by Project Lead the Way (PLTW), the nation's leading science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) solution utilized by more than 6,500 schools across the nation.
This year, Schaefer was instrumental in bringing PLTW's Launch curriculum to Husmann Elementary (a prerequisite of the Master Teacher program) as part of District 47's new STEM offerings.
The module-based, K-5 STEM program has soared in popularity among students and aligns with Next Generation Science Standards as well as the Illinois Learning Standards for Math and English Language Arts.
In her role as Master Teacher, Schaefer will provide two-and-a-half day trainings to teachers around the country on how to successfully implement the Launch program in their schools, which includes a three-phase process that provides comprehensive K-5 STEM education training, program resources, and teaching strategies. Schaefer says she has worked hard to bring the new curriculum to Husmann STEM classrooms this year and is excited to share her ideas and experience with others.
"Being selected as a PLTW Master Teacher means so much to me," says Schaefer. "I look forward to connecting and working with teachers from all around the United States who are teaching the same thing as I am and hope I can make the transition into STEM for other schools a little bit easier through my role as a Master Teacher."
Schaefer was notified in March of her acceptance after a rigorous application process which included the submission of video, essay responses, and letters of recommendation. In return for her service, she says she hopes to get a sneak preview of new PLTW modules and will receive compensation for professional development.
Later this month, Schaefer will attend a training in Indianapolis where she will receive details about her summer teaching engagements. Besides taking on this new challenge, Schaefer, who received her bachelor's degree last May, will begin a master's program in educational technology over the summer.