{"id":407151,"date":"2024-03-05T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-03-05T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.saipantribune.com\/?p=407151"},"modified":"-0001-11-30T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"-0001-11-29T14:00:00","slug":"PSS-STEM-initiative-1-of-15-project-proposals-chosen-by-Smithsonian-Education-Center","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.saipantribune.com\/index.php\/PSS-STEM-initiative-1-of-15-project-proposals-chosen-by-Smithsonian-Education-Center\/","title":{"rendered":"PSS\u2019 STEM initiative 1 of 15 project proposals chosen by Smithsonian Education Center"},"content":{"rendered":"

The \u201cPacific & Indigenous Perspectives Driving STEM\u201d initiative, chosen among 15 nationwide project proposals by the Smithsonian Education Center, aims to revolutionize STEM education within Pacific Islander communities. Led by Dr. Riya Nathrani, serving as the team leader and PSS Instructional Technology coach, the project boasts a diverse team including Dr. Bobby Cruz, State Education Agency Mental Health director; Asapmar Ogumoro, Science Program manager under the Office of Curriculum and Instruction; and Dr. Annette Pladevega, project director for the Statewide Longitudinal Data System.<\/p>\n

This interdisciplinary endeavor bridges the gap between academic theories and real-world applications, enriching learning experiences by integrating Pacific Islander cultural values, particularly Inafa\u2019maolek\/Tipiyew<\/em>, or \u201crestoring harmony,\u201d into STEM education. This approach not only connects students with STEM but also nurtures their cultural heritage, fostering transformative learning experiences.<\/p>\n

Nathrani and Ogumoro attended the Smithsonian STEM Education Summit from Feb. 23 to 25 in Washington, D.C, an annual event hosted by the Smithsonian Science Education Center in partnership with Shell USA, Inc. The summit addresses the imperative of diversity in the STEM teaching workforce, convening leadership teams nationwide to create actionable plans aimed at attracting and retaining minority STEM teachers.<\/p>\n

During the summit, the team collaborated with their mentor, Dr. Lanise Stevenson, a professor at John Hopkins University with expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Together, they formulated an action plan involving the infusion of culturally relevant STEM concepts into existing curricula, comprehensive teacher training, and rigorous evaluations. By embedding STEM within the cultural fabric of the community, this initiative not only teaches students crucial STEM skills but also fosters their cultural pride.<\/p>\n

Nathrani expressed appreciation for the summit, stating, \u201cThe insights and strategies shared at the Smithsonian STEM Education Summit are invaluable in our mission to cultivate a more inclusive and equitable STEM education landscape. I am excited to break down barriers and create pathways for all students to pursue STEM fields.\u201d<\/p>\n

The 2024 Diversity in STEM Education Summit highlights the Smithsonian Science Education Center\u2019s commitment to driving meaningful change in STEM education. Participants in the program receive support, including travel and accommodations, to ensure accessibility and inclusivity. (PR)<\/em><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

From left, State Education Agency Mental Health director Dr. Bobby Cruz, team leader and PSS Instructional Technology coach Dr. Riya Nathrani, and Science Program manager Asapmar Ogumuro. Not in photo is Statewide Longitudinal Data System program manager Dr. Annettee Pladevega-Sablan.<\/p>\n

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Dr. Bobby Cruz and Dr. Riya Nathrani are joined by Education Commissioner Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho.<\/p>\n

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Dr. Riya Nathrani and Asapmar Ogumoro at the Smithsonian STEM Education Summit, which was held from Feb. 23 to 25 in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n

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The team\u2019s mentor, Dr. Lanise Stevenson, center, is a professor at John Hopkins University with expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion.<\/p>\n

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