Krishnan Ranjani

Portland, OR | 7-12, Mathematics, 2023

Krishnan Ranjani Portrait Photo

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

As an adolescent, I was drawn to the scientific method and the abstractions found in mathematics because they helped me understand the world around me in a predictable yet exciting way. My passion for computer science lets me apply these concepts in meaningful ways in the real world. Seeing the world through STEM is powerful and liberating, which is why I believe STEM education must be strong and accessible to all students.

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

One of the most transformative moments in my journey as a STEM educator was the 2025 NCWIT Oregon and SW Washington Celebration. Watching my students walk across the stage as Winners, Honorable Mentions, and Rising Stars filled me with pride. Their recognition was more than an award; it reflected their confidence and growth in a space where they are often overlooked. Being named an NCWIT Affiliate Educator Honorable Mention affirmed that my efforts to build a classroom based on support, collaboration, and student partnerships truly matter. I am a firm believer that I am here for all my students. That day helped me highlight my female students while strengthening my belief that every student thrives when we lift one another.

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

As a Presidential Awardee, I want to reach students often left out of STEM, especially in underserved communities and rural areas. I spark curiosity, mentor new CS teachers, and design hands-on lessons tied to real-life challenges. I update my curriculum, launch interdisciplinary projects, collaborate with CS teachers nationwide, and build university and industry partnerships. I plan to start a mentorship program where high schoolers lead STEM activities for younger students.

Biography

Krishnan Ranjani (she/her), who goes by "Ranjani", began her teaching journey 15 years ago at French International School of Oregon in Portland, where she taught 6th grade Math and Science. She has also taught Advanced Mathematics at Health and Science School, Tualatin High School, Ida B. Wells High School, and is currently a Career and Technical Education computer science teacher at Lincoln High School, where she has spent the past eight years. Prior to teaching, Ranjani worked at Wolfram Research, a mathematical software company. At the end of each school year, Ranjani and her students engage in culminating activities that emphasize student presentations, agency, humor, and community. Ranjani has also served as an adjunct mathematics instructor at Portland Community College. She holds certifications in Additive Manufacturing and Game Design and Development from MIT. Proficient in various programming languages and educational software, she is a lifelong learner with a strong interest in understanding how to learn and teach content effectively, always seeking to enhance her teaching methods. Outside of education, Ranjani is a vocalist, composer, and performer. She released an album in 2015 called 'Cream of Portland' featuring original compositions and covers of world music songs. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Tamil, she also has a working knowledge of Spanish and German. Ranjani holds a B.A. in mathematics from Reed College, a B.A. Honors, summa cum laude, in music from Lewis & Clark College, an M.S. in mathematics from the University of Illinois, and an M.A.T. from Lewis & Clark College. She also holds National Board Certification in Adolescence and Young Adulthood in Mathematics.

High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

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