Gretchen Brinza

Chicago, IL | K-6, Science, 2016

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

So much of our world is directed connected in some way to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). As a classroom teacher, I recognize that the students in front of me are tomorrow's leaders, researchers and problem-solvers, and for this very reason, I continue to push myself to learn alongside them, modeling excellence in every aspect of our time together. We ask meaningful questions, consider how to figure out answers to our questions, and share our work with those around us.

What has been the most transformative moment that affirmed your impact on STEM education?

In 2016, I agreed to participate in research that would transform not only my teaching, but educators across the country. This meant I had intensive professional development to support me in my teaching practices, and with a videographer in place, I opened the doors of my classroom for others to observe how students responded to the shifts the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) called for by using high-quality curricular materials. To this day, I always say yes to being filmed, as it helps me and others grow to best support students in their science learning.

Using your platform as a Presidential Awardee, how do you hope to advance our nation in STEM?

Since receiving the PAEMST in 2016, I continue to be a highly respected teacher, one who is willing to grow and take risks. Even though it is years past the receipt of the award, I am hopeful that the actions I take in my classroom and the support I provide to teachers nationwide, we will continue to create and advance the next generation of leaders, researchers and problem-solvers our world needs.

Biography

Gretchen Brinza has been a science teacher for over twenty years, both in Illinois (Chicago Public Schools--Calmeca Academy of Fine Arts, STEM Magnet Academy, Alcott College Prep and Sauganash Elementary) and Colorado (Boulder Valley School District--Louisville Middle School). She is incredibly passionate about science education impacting both teachers and students at the local, state, and national level. Beyond the classroom where she makes meaningful, lasting relationships with students and their families, she works closely with OpenSciEd to help create resources and support teachers in implementing free, high-quality curricular materials aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) both at the district and national level. Gretchen has participated in many professional development offerings, including NGSX at Northwestern University, the Michigan State Urban STEM and Leadership Teaching Fellowship, Honeywell Green Boot Camp and Space Academy for Educations, and countless offerings by the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA). Outside of the classroom, she consults as a writer and facilitator for OpenSciEd and has published various articles through NSTA regarding the storylines approach and building classroom community. Gretchen holds a BS in Elementary Education with a concentration in mathematics from Susquehanna University and an MS in Public Service Management from DePaul University. Coursework through the University of Chicago earned her science certification. She is eligible to science and math in grades K-12 in Colorado where she currently lives.

High-resolution version of the official portrait photograph
Awardee holding Presidential certificate between Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy U.S. Chief Technology Officer, Michael Kratsios, and National Science Foundation Director, Dr. France A. Córdova.
High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

The views expressed in awardee profiles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of NSF or the PAEMST program.