STEM Education: Giving Space Makes a Lasting Impact

The experience of a young high school student keen on science, came to fruition when she found herself next to another student who could not have been more different than her—or was he? In a moment of serendipity, Hollee and her unlikely peer focused on a 24-hour study of biorhythms and learned something about each other and themselves in the process. Creating and holding space across, neighborhoods, languages, socio-economic statuses, experiences, gender, and interests, is an intentional act. Show up, create, and provide space for diversity for a meaningful life lesson. Dr. Hollee Freeman | Educator Dr. Hollee Freeman is the Executive Director of the MathScience Innovation Center in Richmond, VA. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and has worked as an elementary teacher, district math coach, national mathematics trainer, educational researcher, curriculum writer, and professor. In her capacity as Field Director for the Boston Teacher Residency for over 10 years, Freeman was instrumental in developing content, policies and practices for in-service teachers and their mentors. Freeman has authored numerous book chapters and articles focused on STEM (science, technology, education and mathematics), educational reform, gender, and educational equity in the US and abroad. She keeps very busy volunteering her time locally serving on several education boards and event committees. In addition, she is an adjunct instructor at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she teaches a class focused on community engagement. Freeman earned a Ph.D in Educational Administration from Boston College, an M.S. in Special Education from Bank Street College of Education, and a B.A. in Psychology/Elementary Education from Columbia University in NY. She is a graduate of the Sorensen Institute for Political Leaders and Leadership Metro Richmond.