Aisha Vázquez

Caguas, PR | K-6, Science, 2022

Aisha Vázquez Portrait Photo

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

A strong motivation to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching comes from the belief that STEM education is foundational for solving real-world problems and shaping the future. My students can benefit for life when they apply the following: critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills. This helping them master these tools means enabling the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists who will tackle global challenges.

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

The moment that affirmed my impact on STEM education came when a student who had consistently struggled in my class approached me at the end of the year and said, "I used to think I wasn't a science person. Now I know I just needed someone to believe I could be." This student had started the year disengaged and doubtful of their abilities. Through consistent encouragement, hands-on learning opportunities. Watching their confidence grow reminded me that effective STEM teaching isn't just about content- it's about creating a space where all students feel capable of success. That moment reinforced for me that STEM education can be transformative when students see themselves reflected in it, and that I have a role in making that possible.

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

I hope to advance our nation in STEM by becoming both an advocate and catalyst for change in three key areas: equity, teacher development, and real-world relevance. I believe strongly in investing in teacher leadership and professional growth. I want to bridge classroom learning with real-world innovation, helping students connect STEM concepts to the problems and technologies shaping our world. This award isn't just a recognition-it's a responsibility.

Biography

Aisha Vázquez has been an educator for 26 years and has spent the last year teaching fifth grade mathematics and science at Pedro Millán Rivera Elementary School and sixth grade at Haydée Caballero Torres. She previously spent six years teaching third and fourth grade science at Notre Dame Catholic School. Two years ago it has been impacting special education students. Aisha’s love of teaching goes beyond the classroom. She participates in the Alliance of Science and Mathematics of the University of Turabo. The project consists of keeping teachers updated on the strategies and evaluations for these subjects. Aisha incorporates VEX Robotics into her science curriculum and has been working to build a frog's life cycle. Students also have the opportunity to build a robot throughout the semester in a way that incorporates STEAM topics. Aisha also likes to integrate parents and/or other professionals to provide the students with lectures, demonstrations, and talks. She, together with the non-profit entity called “Para La Naturaleza” and the Natural Resources Agency of Puerto Rico, carried out an activity that involves the entire family of the student and is called "Helping Our Home". Each student obtains a tree and must plant it in a suitable place chosen by the family. Family unity and the care of our planet are promoted, which in turn helps created better citizens. Aisha earned a bachelor's degree in education, a master's degree in educational administration, and another in curriculum and in technology at Ana G. Méndez University. She also obtained a certification in autism and is certified in robotics. She is a certified elementary school teacher. A year ago she began studies to obtain a doctoral degree in educational leadership.

High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

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