Nellie Stowers

Pago Pago, AS | K-6, Science, 2022

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

Teaching STEM in American Samoa gives me a strong sense of purpose. I am inspired by my students’ potential and committed to giving them meaningful opportunities for the future. Though our island is remote, our students deserve equal access to quality STEM education. I create culturally relevant lessons tied to real-life issues so students see their value. I believe they can achieve anything with the right support and I strive to empower them every day.

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

One of the most meaningful moments in my STEM teaching journey was when a former student returned after college to thank me. She said a classroom project using local materials to solve a real-world problem sparked her interest in health. It felt like just another hands-on lesson, but it planted a seed that grew into a career she never expected. That moment showed me our impact goes beyond lessons and test scores. Culturally relevant STEM learning can change lives. Seeing students reach their potential beyond the island is powerful, where STEM opportunities are limited. Moments like this inspire me and remind me every student can succeed in STEM.

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

As a Presidential Awardee, I’m honored to represent students and educators in underrepresented communities, especially in U.S. territories like American Samoa. I’ll use this platform to promote equity in STEM by ensuring students in remote areas have access to quality resources, opportunities, and mentorship. Through hands-on, culturally connected learning, I aim to inspire others, mentor educators in island communities, and help shape a more inclusive, empowering STEM future for all.

Biography

Nellie Stowers has been an educator in American Samoa for 17 years, committed to excellence in STEM through hands-on, student-centered learning. For 11 years, she has taught sixth and seventh-grade math and science at Manulele Tausala Elementary School, integrating real-world applications and culturally responsive strategies to engage students. Her teaching fosters exploration, collaboration, and critical thinking, helping students take ownership of their learning and build confidence. Nellie started her career at Pavaiai Elementary and later taught pre-kindergarten at Siliaga Elementary, gaining broad experience across developmental stages. This diverse background strengthens her ability to scaffold complex STEM concepts to meet students where they are. She leads school-wide professional development, sharing innovative strategies that align instruction with standards and benchmarks. Recognized for making STEM lessons interactive and accessible, Nellie is also certified in the Acellus Learning System, which she uses to personalize instruction and boost student outcomes. Nellie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Education in Curriculum Studies from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. She centers her work on a culturally aware, place-based STEM curriculum that highlights the importance of culture in linking academic content to students’ identities and surroundings. Her leadership demonstrates a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and continuous professional growth. Nellie is certified to teach pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. She is deeply committed to empowering students in American Samoa through quality STEM education that honors their culture, community, and potential.

High-resolution version of the official portrait photograph
High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

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