Dearing Blankmann
District 5 Director - Dearing Blankmann
Biographical Information
I teach STEM and data literacy at the graduate and undergraduate level. I was the co-founder and continue to facilitate the UNCG STEM Teacher Leader Collaborative (now partnered with High Point University) since 2016. I am currently running a 3-year Burroughs Wellcome grant that is partnered with five Guilford County Schools. My work on that grant includes developing out of school science experiences with teachers including afterschool STEM clubs and supporting teachers with ongoing science/engineering professional development and facilitation of STEM professional communities of practice.
Mission Statement
As a candidate for the NCSTA District 5 board position, I commit to advancing the quality of science education in North Carolina. If elected, I will focus on two key areas. First, I will support science educators by advocating for increased resources and professional development opportunities for science teachers, promoting mentorship programs to support new and veteran teachers, in addition to establishing and facilitating collaborations and networks between educators to share best practices and innovative teaching methods. Second, I will enhance science education by promoting evidence-based curricula that align with current scientific consensus and the new NC science standards, encouraging phenomenon-based inquiry and hands-on investigations in classrooms, advocating for technology integration and real-world applications, and fostering joyful learning through meaningful, equitable and discussion-based instructional approaches.
My goal is to foster engaged STEM environments in which both educators and students thrive. By prioritizing these objectives collectively, we can ensure North Carolina leads in science education and prepares our students for future academic and career success in STEM fields. I dedicate myself to working closely with fellow board members, educators, and stakeholders to implement these initiatives and continually improve science education across District 5 and throughout our state.
