STEM DIRECTOR VICTORIA WEBSTER RECOGNIZED AMONG NATION ’ S 10 BEST
Mansfield ISD STEM Director Victoria Webster has been named one of Education Technology Insights ’ 2023 Top 10 STEM Directors . The national science and technology magazine honored Webster for being an innovator in creating STEM education strategies . The honor places Webster at the top of her field among not only other K-12 directors , but also her peers at colleges and universities from across the country .
“ When I learned about the award , I was shocked ,” Webster said . “ I ’ m very honored to be among the others on this list . I was aware of who they are , and they ’ re brilliant . I ’ m incredibly humbled .”
After beginning her career as a science teacher and campus administrator , Webster launched MISD ’ s districtwide STEM program in
2016 as the founding principal of the Jerry Knight STEM Academy . Since then , Webster has led MISD to create four additional STEM academies which span grades from elementary to high school .
“ The growth of the STEM program is a result of her hard work and leadership along with her passion and dedication to creating innovative experiences for kids ,” said Associate Superintendent of Curriculum , Instruction & Accountability , Jennifer Young . “ It doesn ’ t surprise me that she is being recognized among college STEM directors ; she is that good .”
Webster says it ’ s important to engage students at the elementary level
“ The growth of the STEM program is a result of her hard work and leadership .”
JENNIFER YOUNG Associate Superintendent of Curriculum , Instruction & Accountability because it allows them to identify as STEM thinkers early in their education career . According to Webster , research shows that selfidentification is a key factor in keeping students from opting out of STEM in college if it gets challenging .
The early start is especially important , Webster says , for segments of the student population – women and underrepresented populations – who are traditionally outnumbered in science and technology fields .
20 MANSFIELDTODAY