GENESIS: PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS ANNOUNCES JUNE STEMSTAR
Ripley County, Indiana – Genesis: Pathways to Success (GPS) is proud to present the June STEMstar award to Jessica Small-Summers! An Air Force veteran, Small-Summers began her teaching career at Milan High School in 2013 and now teaches AP Chemistry and Physics at Milan High School. She holds a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati.
“Mrs. Small-Summers is an outstanding educator who cares about student learning and makes science practical and fun!” Ryan Langferman, Milan High School principal said. “Most recently, she invited 4th and 5th grade students from Milan Elementary School to her classroom so that her chemistry and physics students could create and present a hands-on science lab for the students.”
In 2015, Indiana Academic All-Star Isabelle Ortt recognized Small-Summers as the educator who had most influenced her educational journey. Ortt expressed appreciation for Small-Summers’s compassionate personality and determination to fight for progress.
“Mrs. Small-Summers has reminded me that ‘real’ academic success can be created anywhere, not simply at prestigious academies or in richly cultured cities,” Ortt said. Jane Rogers, superintendent of Milan School Corporation, confirmed this and said, “Mrs. Small-Summers presents dynamic learning opportunities to ignite a passion in students. She is definitely deserving of recognition as a STEMstar in our area!” In her spare time, Small-Summers enjoys hiking, camping and spending time with her family.
GPS began the STEMstar program in January 2017 to recognize students and educators who are making strides in STEM. To nominate a STEMstar, please fill out the STEMstar form at http://bit.ly/STEMstar.
Genesis: Pathways to Success (GPS) is an initiative of the Ripley County Community Foundation dedicated to empowering students to succeed in STEM by developing programs in areas such as engineering, agriculture, health science and technology as well as by supporting events that encourage students to apply curious minds and critical thinking skills to real-world opportunities. GPS generates ongoing and meaningful dialogue and collaboration to prepare a talent pipeline for a globally dynamic marketplace. For additional information, please visit www.genesisp2s.org.
