Hi, I’m Madeline, and I teach elementary Science and STEM
I understand how intimidating elementary science can be. Years ago, I remembered a parent trying to set up a STEM club. He was surprised how many elementary school teachers were not excited about teaching science. At that moment, it occurred to me that most elementary teachers went into education for their love of reading and children. Science scares many elementary teachers. During evaluations, elementary administrators are impressed by words like symbiotic, velocity, and photosynthesis.
How did I happen to get here? My mother. She forced me to go into nursing. Guess what classes that consisted of? I never wanted to be a nurse; I was just a dutiful daughter. Fast forward to 4 years into teaching when my principal said I am placing you in 5th grade departmentalized teaching science. There I stayed, loved, and was born into a Science teacher. I have spent time writing standards and curricula at my state and district levels. When our system started to implement elementary STEM, I happily headed that program. Next, Covid struck, and I was stuck at home and needed digital lessons. This is where the birth of the Science Suitcase came from. I enjoy sharing my experiences and lessons.