As a STEM Educator, Emily designs hands-on workshops and summer camp curriculum, creates and implements Preschool Discovery Hour themes, and cultivates spaces that are inclusive and engaging for learners of all abilities.
Impacting the Mission
Emily strengthens STEM learning by developing hands-on workshops and seasonal programs that blend fun with science and ignite curiosity. In the classroom, Emily is dedicated to building environments where children of all abilities can explore, experiment, and feel confident trying new things.
She believes strongly in nurturing grit, reminding young scientists that “trying” is never a lost art in STEM! When experiments feel challenging or impossible, Emily encourages students to shift perspectives, explore new approaches, and keep going. Whether she’s teaching in the community or across the state, her goal remains the same: to make STEM meaningful, accessible, and joyful for students across the region, all while naturally supporting learning aligned with North Dakota standards.
🧩 Inclusive Design |🎒 Early Childhood Learning through Play|🌱 Confidence Building
Experience and Expertise
Emily is a third-generation educator; she earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Mary in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, with a reading specialty and a minor in psychology. She is also a Registered Behavior Technician and has spent meaningful time working directly with students as a paraprofessional experience that shaped her understanding of how children learn, communicate, and thrive in different environments.
She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in School Counseling through the University of North Dakota, which continues to influence and elevate her work in STEM education. This blend of academic training and hands-on experience allows Emily to design STEM programs with a deep appreciation for the whole child. She brings together developmental knowledge, behavioral insight, and a counseling-informed lens to create science experiences that are supportive, accessible, and empowering to every learner.
Outside of NDGTS
Emily finds joy in staying active and giving back. She recently completed her first half marathon (with the next one already on the calendar), and she loves running local races, especially those that support community causes and charities. When she’s not training, you can usually find her reading, watching F1 or supporting the F1 Academy, playing piano or teaching lessons, and adventuring with her very energetic dog, Pesto!
Favorite Exhibit, Event, or Experiment
Emily especially loves Preschool Discovery Hour, North Dakota Gateway’s monthly early-learning program. Designing these stations lets her combine sensory play, science exploration, and seasonal themes into experiences that spark wonder for our youngest scientists. Whether it’s “Fall Feelings,” or animal-themed partnerships with the Central Dakota Humane Society, she loves crafting moments where families learn, play, and discover together!