Emily Pohlonski Novi, MI | 7-12, Science, 2021

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Emily Pohlonski spent her first 10 years as an educator teaching 9th-12th grade science and mathematics courses at Novi High School including Biology, Genetics & Medical Technology, and Medical Career Explorations. For the next decade, Emily continued teaching while also adding district-level roles. She then served two years as a principal before becoming the Director of Instruction, where she has been for one year. Emily is passionate about community partnerships that provide students with opportunities to meaningfully engage in science and mathematics. As the district’s Partners in Excellence Coordinator, she managed Novi’s hospital partnerships including weekly on-site student rotations at Ascension Providence Hospital. As a Science Content Area Leader, Emily led the development of Novi’s NGSS-aligned curriculum. This involved facilitating professional learning and support for K-12 teachers. Then, as the District K-12 Science Coordinator, she supported ongoing NGSS implementation. Emily is committed to ensuring educator voices are included in state-level educational decisions. She has served on local- and state-level committees and presented at state and national conferences supporting teacher preparation and the shift to NGSS. Emily earned a B.S., with honors, in biology and holds two master’s degrees, one in educational technology and the other in curriculum & teaching, all from Michigan State University. She is certified in secondary biology, chemistry, mathematics, and educational technology. Additionally, Emily is a National Board Certified Science Teacher and has a central office school administrator certification.

• High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

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