Linda L'Ai

Logan, UT | K-6, Mathematics, 2010

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

My special interest has always been in the integration of math and science in all areas of the curriculum and in providing students with learning experiences in a meaningful context. Hands-on inquiry based lessons promote conceptual understanding and enable students to solve real world problems. STEAM focused curriculum (A for Arts) matches my philosophy of effective learning and creative problem solving. My approach to STEM education began in 1971 ironically way before the STEM term appeared!

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

Several years ago, I realized the importance of parent involvement in the reinforcement of their child’s mathematics education. “Homework help” only was not enough. The Family Math Literacy Project began in my classroom with a parent inservice in the use of math bags complete with instructions and manipulatives. Weekly games and activities ranging from dice games to multi-cultural projects were recommended. Word spread, and I was asked to develop a schoolwide program and Family Math Nights. It was a joy to see families interacting and excited about solving problems and playing mathematical games on these evenings. I continue to hear from former parents and students about the positive impact of doing mathematics together.

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

Following the receipt of the PAEMST Award, I accepted the position of Curriculum Director at the Edith Bowen Lab School. I supervised pre-service teachers and presented weekly seminars to introduce innovative teaching methodology to the university students. Resources promoting STEAM lessons were shared throughout the semesters. My hope was that my interaction with the students would encourage them to continue the pursuit of interactive lessons which integrated science, math, art, and technology.

Biography

Linda L’Ai has been an educator for more than 35 years and has taught grades 1-6 and mentored preservice teachers at the Edith Bowen Laboratory School on the campus of Utah State University. She has also been an education Peace Corps volunteer, a migrant education specialist, and a bilingual specialist. During her 28 years at Edith Bowen, Linda developed a Family Math Literacy program, wrote a Light the Math Within curriculum connecting mathematics and sports for the Utah Olympic Games, and collaborated with the Eccles Harrison Museum of Art to integrate mathematics and art. Since retiring she volunteers at the Stokes Nature Center as an environmental science educator. Linda has been a presenter at national mathematics and science professional meetings, as well as a guest lecturer at Utah State; she has also published in Teaching Children Mathematics. She has received the Utah Council of Teachers of Mathematics Karl Jones Award for Excellence in Mathematics Education, the KSL Broadcasting Teacher Award, and a Fulbright Memorial Teacher Scholarship to Japan. Linda has a B.S. in biological sciences, and elementary and secondary teaching credentials, from the University of California, Davis and a bilingual credential and an M.Ed. from California State University. "It has been an incredible and rewarding experience to work with elementary age children and pre-service teachers, each one so unique and promising. I have been fortunate to also work with amazing teachers and with faculty members in the USU Colleges. They have all greatly enriched my life and professional career."

High-resolution version of the official portrait photograph
Awardee holding Presidential certificate between OSTP Associate Director for Science Carl Wieman and NSF Deputy Director Cora Marrett.
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.