GIRLSwSTEAM: Finding opportunities to Enrich and Empower Girls in Education
Girls in American classrooms are eager to learn in the STEM and STEAM disciplines, but they bring with them isolating histories related to gender in these fields. "Although there is a general perception that men do better than women in math and science, researchers have found that the differences between women's and men's math and science-related abilities and choices are much more subtle and complex than a simple 'men are better than women' in math and science" (Halpern, Aronson, Reimer, Simplkins, Star, and Wentzel, 2007). This presentation will refocus our attention on gender specific theories associated with histories, powers, and freedoms for women and girls, and the lack there of, that contribute to how they see themselves in American classrooms today. Tenets of equity will be analyzed to depict practices we can pragmatically implement to empower girls in classrooms in the era of gender fluid classrooms. Statistics associated with girls in STEM classrooms and fields will be illuminated to examine the future for mathematics given contributions of girls in the future. Rochelle Gutierrez (2018) stated, "People don't need mathematics, Mathematics needs people." This statement reiterates that mathematics as field will need the diverse perspectives of a variety of people. Girls have the potential to bring fresh, new, creative, and innovative ideas to the table of the science. Lastly, we will set our sights on areas of improvements outlined by the U.S. Department of Education to propel girls, young ladies, and women forward in classrooms today and in the future.
Recommended Grade Level: K-12
Building on the creative spirit that exudes through her journey as a STEM educator, she founded GIRLSwSTEAM, a non-profit organization that provides young ladies with opportunities to engage creatively with STEAM curriculums.
Natalie appreciates and shares with listeners that leadership in the field of education is a moment to moment choice and not about title, tenure, or position but one of necessity- making the best decision for students foremost. As an author, she writes on issues of Intersectionality using Critical Theory as a lens in professional journals which equips educators with proven tools for success in the field.
Natalie is a national leader in the educational community and a sought out speaker in the area of education, mathematics, educational leadership, equity in the field, and Global STEM collaborations. Natalie uses her frank and no nonsense three-step approach to leading in the field of education to enrich, educate, and enhance the lives of students and educators each and every day.
As a lover of life, Natalie enjoys playing tennis, spending time with family, and experiencing new opportunities in new spaces.
