MiniCAST Presenters

I love all things science and truly enjoy sharing with others. This is my 9th year teaching and my first year just math/science! 

Angela Campana is a Manager of Professional Learning. Before joining the STEMscopes family she was a skilled elementary educator for 9 years. Her time as a professional learning developer for STEMscopes Math has sharpened her knowledge of elementary mathematics instruction and philosophy. As an educator, Angela experienced teaching 3rd through 5th grade math and science, and served as a campus instructional coach to kindergarten through 5th grade students. Angela holds a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction emphasizing educational technology from the University of Texas at El Paso. 

Ashley taught in the science classroom for 13 years in Austin and Dallas. Courses included 6th grade science, 7th grade science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. She took on the role of Secondary Science Coordinator in Plano ISD in 2020.

My background includes experience as a highly qualified leader in science education with over 28 years of experience. She was awarded the South Carolina Science Education Leadership Association's Outstanding Leadership Award in Science Education and is the organization's immediate past president.  Mrs. Boland is a National Geographic Learning Science Content Specialist.

My background includes experience as a highly qualified leader in science education with over 28 years of experience. She was awarded the South Carolina Science Education Leadership Association's Outstanding Leadership Award in Science Education and is the organization's immediate past president.  Mrs. Boland is a National Geographic Learning Science Content Specialist.

Candace Davis boasts a rich 14-year tenure in the field of education, serving as both a dedicated teacher and accomplished curriculum writer for elementary and secondary science. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with a focus on education from Texas Tech University, she furthered her academic pursuits with a Master's in Education in administration from Lamar University. Presently, she is immersed in her doctoral studies at Baylor University, pursuing an Educational Doctorate in leadership and organizational change.

In 2023, Candace made a noteworthy transition from education to assume the role of Science Technology Solutions Advisor at Vernier Science Education. In this capacity, she dedicates her efforts to identifying innovative solutions that empower school districts to enhance their hands-on science initiatives, access quality lesson resources, and integrate top-notch lab equipment into classrooms. Her commitment extends notably to her home state, Texas, where she was both born and raised.

Candace's professional journey has seen her at the forefront, leading over 100 presentations catering to audiences ranging from educators to district administrators. Her expertise spans diverse topics, encompassing classroom management, standards-based performance, and beyond. Currently residing in Spring, TX, Candace shares her home with her family, a vibrant mix of aquatic and furry companions, including fish, axolotls, a cat, and two miniature schnauzers.

Associate Professor of Instruction/Graduate Advisor UT Dallas

Former elementary school teacher - all subjects taught

Secondary classroom teacher in New York State for 10 years and 5 years in Texas. Courses taught include Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Took over as Director of Science in Coppell ISD in 2019. 

Evan Sanchez is a Curriculum Specialist for Teaching and Learning at Discovery Education, prior to joining Discovery Education, including 7th, 3rd, and 5th grade science.

Heather Appleby is a professor of astronomy and physics for Dallas College Richland Campus (formerly Richland College), where she has taught since 2005, joining the full-time faculty in 2007. She holds a Master of Science in Upper Atmosphere and Space from the University of North Texas. 

She currently is leading and coordinating the solar eclipse viewing parties for all seven main campuses of Dallas College. She is also a member of the American Astronomical Society. 

I am a passionate STEM educator with over 20 years in public education.  From fostering a love of science in the classroom to STEM coaching and curriculum development, I've worn many hats. I am currently coordinating secondary science in Rockwall ISD, fueling scientific curiosity and innovation. 

I am a 5th grade science teacher and curriculum writer for Northwest ISD.

Hi, I am Jennifer Bradley and have been teaching for 11 years. I have taught almost every science subject from 5th grade to 12 the grade. I teach in a small rural area. I love teaching to bring out the best in all my students. I currently teach Chemistry and Food Science, however the last 8 years I taught Biology with a 97% passing rate average. 

I have had the pleasure of continuing to learn and grow in Garland ISD as a student, a teacher, and now as an Instructional Design Facilitator. I have a passion for working with students and teachers as they explore how science is found throughout their daily lives and build the skills required to communicate understanding to others.

Jessica Liken is the Academic Program Manager at the Dallas Arboretum. She holds a B.S. in biochemistry and neuroscience from Brandeis University and has over 12 years of experience in informal science education in North Texas. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spoiling her dog Quill.

Jessica Darst is the Education and Operations Program Manager at the Dallas Arboretum. She holds a Bachelor of Science Education, a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, and has over 13 years of experience in the science classroom. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and son, reading, or listening to podcasts.

I am a dedicated science educator that has been teaching with Fort Worth ISD for the past 18 years. Prior to that, I was a zookeeper at the Fort Worth zoo for 5 years. I have a B.S in Biology and a M. of Education in Science Curriculum & Instruction. Currently, I am working on my Ph.D. in Science Education. I am also a certified Professional Developer for QTEL-Wested.

My teaching background for middle school was concepts related to matter & energy, force & motion, earth & space and living systems. I currently teach biology and environmental systems at South Hill High School. Other subjects that I have taught include chemistry and IPC. The schools that I have taught have been all Title 1 schools with high percentage English Learners. In addition to teaching, I am Curriculum Writer for Accelerated Learning K-12 for both Math and Science. The scope of the work is to provide advice for new teachers to successfully conduct the lessons and activities. 

Kaley Douglas is a HMH Account Executive, a former teaching and learning consultant and  teacher with 10  years of experience. She holds a Master of Curriculum and Instruction Math and Science Integration from University of Houston  and a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies from Stephen F. Austin State University. As a servant leader, she is passionate about partnering with schools as a thought partner and supporting teachers in the classroom to build capacity and increase student achievement. 

Middle School Science is my JAM!  I have 22 years of experience teaching 6th - 8th grade Science.  I am a curriculum writer, ADI facilitator, and dedicated to quality Science teaching and learning. My passion is developing relationships and positive learning culture in the classroom.

This is currently my 16th year in the classroom. I have always had a passion for Elementary Science. I have worked on Science vertical teams as well as curriculum writing teams and last Spring, I had the opportunity to work with a cohort of science teachers and science coordinators from across the state to give input on the TEA TEKS Guide webpage. I am currently teaching kindergarten in Northwest ISD and work on the kindergarten science curriculum writing team. We have been striving to learn about and implement phenomena in our science units and have seen tremendous success! I'm excited to share what I have learned with others!

Katie Evans, MS Science Education, taught middle and high school science in California using the NGSS standards up until 2019, when she moved to Texas. Katie has served in Crowley ISD for the past 5 years as a Biology teacher, high school math & science specialist, and district science coordinator. 

Sessions: Modeling Genetics & Biotechnology.

Ms. Hendrix is a 21-on science learning. I love learning: I have a BS in Zoology from TTU, an MEd from LCU, and an MA in Biology Education from UTexas. I share my love of learning with my students by involving them in learning. The best part of teaching is watching students get excited when they understand the material and then share what they have learned with their fellow students. I believe that hands-on learning is the most effective way to engage and encourage students to want to understand and be excited about science.

Laura Smith, M.S in Science Curriculum and Instruction, has taught 6-8th Science for 9 years in the State of Texas, as well as being an Adjunct Professor of Science at the University level. Over the last 5 years, Laura has served as an Instructional Support Specialist of Science for grades K-8th, most recently assisting and training teachers in the transition of our new Texas science standards and how to use phenomena daily as a driving force in learning. 

Session: Cultivating Curiosity Through Phenomenon-Powered Learning: Engaging All Students Using Dynamic Science

Dr. Linda Cook is currently working as the Professional Development Strategy Consultant for Summit K-12. She previously served for 15 years as the K-12 Director of Science for the Coppell Independent School District in Texas following 22 years of service as a secondary science teacher. She has worked as an adjunct lecturer for the UTeach program at the University of Texas at Dallas as well as for the Center for Teaching and Learning at Southern Methodist University. Dr. Cook was elected to serve as Region D Director and then as President of the National Science Education Leadership Association where she served on the board for five years. In addition to her passion for science education, Dr. Cook volunteers with her community as a facilitator for Project Unity’s Together We Dine events which bring people together for conversations about equity and social justice. As a North Texas Master Naturalist, Dr. Cook also volunteers at nature parks in the Dallas-Ft Worth area.

Mallorie is a Science Curriculum Strategist from Crandall ISD that is in classrooms K-12. With a degree in Biology, her passion is in the life science subjects. 

Dr. Mary Urquhart is a planetary scientist and Head of the Dept. of Science/Mathematics Education and Director of UTeach Dallas at UT Dallas. Mary is an award-winning professor who teaches graduate teacher courses in physics, astronomy, planetary science, astrobiology, and on incorporating authentic science, mathematics, and CS practices into classrooms.

Megan Gailey is the DFW Sales Specialist for Legends of Learning! As a former Technology Integration Specialist and Teacher in Irving ISD, Megan understands the need for engaging instruction and skills practice for students. She has taught and worked with every grade PreK-8th. She can help demonstrate how Legends of Learning can engage your students while alleviating stress from teachers. Science instruction for all-grade levels is essential and Legends can help supplement.

Michelle Yates boasts 28 years of educational expertise as a versatile curriculum coordinator, revered for her meticulous course development, material selection, and program oversight. Her career highlights include revolutionizing science courses in Aledo ISD and leading professional learning initiatives at local, regional, and national levels. With roles spanning from Science Curriculum Coordinator to various teaching positions, Michelle's commitment to education shines through. Her dedication and excellence have been acknowledged through multiple awards, including Region 11 Teacher of the Year and the Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

I am an Instructional Technology Coach in Rockwall, Texas. I bring over 15 years of diverse classroom teaching experience across multiple grade levels and subjects. As a Google Certified Trainer and STEM coach for the National Institute of STEM Education, I'm dedicated to infusing technology and innovative methodologies into education.

Master Teacher/ Induction Specialist UTeach Dallas program @ UT Dallas 

Former middle school science teacher, instructional specialist, and curriculum writer

My name is Rachel Parrott. I have been teaching in Keller ISD since 2006 and have experience in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade. My entire educational career I have been at Parkview Elementary (including student teaching and long term subbing). The last few years I have had the privilege of being on the district's curriculum writing team as well. I try to find science in everything I do. Just last spring, I was eating steamed broccoli I had cut up and prepared from the produce section of the store, and ran across some lovely creatures in the head of my broccoli. Ta-Da! Life Cycles in action. Needless to say I did not eat the broccoli, but took a bazillion photos to use with my students the following week when we talked about life cycles. 

Michelle Yates boasts 28 years of educational expertise as a versatile curriculum coordinator, revered for her meticulous course development, material selection, and program oversight. Her career highlights include revolutionizing science courses in Aledo ISD and leading professional learning initiatives at local, regional, and national levels. With roles spanning from Science Curriculum Coordinator to various teaching positions, Michelle's commitment to education shines through. Her dedication and excellence have been acknowledged through multiple awards, including Region 11 Teacher of the Year and the Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Rocco works as a K-12 science coordinator in Fort Worth ISD and is also the president of TCES

Rosalie is an accomplished professional dedicated to education, STEM outreach, and museum management. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the College of Saint Rose, her career was shaped by her early success in competitive swimming, fostering skills in discipline and teamwork.

She has worked in museums for more than a decade, with seven of those years at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. She was promoted to Director of Education in 2021. In her role, Rosalie oversees the entire Education Department, excelling in program enhancement and partnerships. Her visionary strategies led to a substantial 64% increase in student outreach while maintaining top-notch program standards. Her knack for building relationships extends to local and national cultural and community organizations.

Rosemary Martin is a Texas educator with 31 years of classroom & administrative experience. She has published over 250 TEKS-based products & presents annually at CAST & regional MiniCASTs.

This is my 1th year in education. While I have spent most of my time in elementary, this year I am teaching 6th grade science. When I am not at school, I enjoy hiking and scuba diving.

This year makes 23 years in education, working in many different roles. I am also a mom of 6 kids, 3 adopted and 3 birth. My experience with fostering and adopting gave me early experience with behaviors and ignited a passion for trauma-informed teaching and studying the communication behind the behavior. I have an MBA and am currently working on my M.Ed program at Texas A&M. 

Stephanie teaches Conceptual Chemistry for the Master of Arts and Teaching program in the Science and Math Education Department at the University of Texas at Dallas as well as General Chemistry I and II. From running a middle school chemistry camp to in service teachers, Stephanie enjoys teaching chemistry to everyone. With a Ph.D in biochemistry from the University of Texas at Austin, she is currently an Associate Professor of Instruction.

Dr. Hutner is the Director of Product at Argument-Driven Inquiry. Prior to joining ADI, Dr. Hutner taught in Alabama, Florida, and Texas. Dr. Hutner received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin in Curriculum and Instruction, with a focus on STEM education.  

Tosha Hoefert is a Science Coordinator with more than 20 years of experience in the field of education. She has an extensive background in curriculum design and providing professional development for teachers and administrators. Tosha is particularly skilled at the STEM design process and is passionate about Elementary Mathematics and Science. Prior to her role as a coordinator, Tosha was a district instructional coach, a math interventionist, a curriculum writer, and a classroom teacher.

Tracy's educational journey is marked by a dedication to Science Education. She transitioned from a successful 23-year career as an classroom teacher, finishing as the K-8 Science Coordinator. Tracy then embarked on a 12-year journey in science publishing, holding roles such as Science Specialist and National Liaison. In these positions, she collaborated with state departments, pilot schools, and state adoptions.

Currently, Tracy serves as the Professional Learning Manager for Activate Learning, overseeing the Professional Learning team nationwide. Her commitment to  educational excellence in Science led her to become a certified OpenSciEd Professional Learning facilitator. Tracy is unwavering in her mission to empower educators and ignite a lifelong passion for learning and teaching.

I am a 5th grade science teacher and curriculum writer for Northwest ISD.

Dr. Victor Sampson is an Associate Professor of STEM Education at the University of Texas in Austin. He received his Ph.D. from Arizona State University in 2007 and is an expert in STEM education, education theory and practice, educational research, and the development of new instructional models and materials. Dr. Sampson also has expertise in the design and development of new educational apps. 

This year makes 23 years in education, working in many different roles. I am also a mom of 6 kids, 3 adopted and 3 birth. My experience with fostering and adopting gave me early experience with behaviors and ignited a passion for trauma-informed teaching and studying the communication behind the behavior. I have an MBA and am currently working on my M.Ed program at Texas A&M.