Biography

Dr. Blankmann received her Ph.D. in Teacher Education and Higher Education with a specialization in Science Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2023. Her dissertation investigated the integration of science and literacy as a context for restorative practices professional learning, utilizing a mixed methods approach.

Her teaching career encompasses K-8 classrooms, university courses, and leadership in teacher professional learning initiatives. Before joining High Point University, Dr. Blankmann accumulated over 15 years of experience as an elementary teacher and instructional coach. She began her career in a Quaker school environment.

After obtaining her Master of Arts in Teaching, Curriculum, and Instruction at UNCG, she taught in Guilford County schools until embarking on her doctoral studies. As a doctoral student, she led elementary science methods courses at UNCG and served as the STEM coach for the university’s lab school. Additionally, she worked as a research assistant on several NSF-funded projects focused on STEM equity and bilingual learning.

While teaching in elementary classrooms, Dr. Blankmann co-founded the STEM Teacher Leader Collaborative (STEM TLC) in partnership with UNCG. This initiative provides professional development for teachers, promoting equitable and enriching science and engineering instruction throughout North Carolina. Her involvement with STEM TLC continues as she establishes a new partnership with High Point University.

Dr. Blankmann currently serves as Co-Investigator on a Burroughs Wellcome Fund Student STEM Enrichment Program grant. The STEMtastic Adventures grant is a collaboration between High Point University and five Title I elementary schools in High Point. The grant aims to offer students opportunities to develop STEM skills, cultivate enthusiasm for STEM subjects and careers, and support teachers in facilitating comprehensive STEM learning experiences outside the classroom.

Mission Statement

My mission is to advance fair and equitable access to high-quality STEM education for all students across North Carolina. I am dedicated to ensuring that each learner is provided with inclusive opportunities, allowing them to engage fully in rigorous instruction in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

I am committed to creating educational environments where every student can participate actively in STEM learning. This involves designing programs and pathways that remove barriers and promote equal participation, regardless of a student's background or circumstances. By doing so, all learners are empowered to benefit from challenging and meaningful STEM education.

To deliver on this mission, I prioritize providing comprehensive professional development for both current educators and those preparing to enter the teaching profession. This professional learning is focused on scientific and engineering practices, cross-cutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas, ensuring educators are thoroughly equipped to guide and inspire their students in STEM disciplines.

By promoting phenomenon-based, real-world learning experiences, I strive to make STEM education relevant and engaging. This approach encourages curiosity, supports the pursuit of excellence, and lays the foundation for long-term achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among both educators and students.

Biography

I am an experienced science educator with over a decade of teaching in North Carolina. I graduated from East Carolina University in 2012 and began my teaching career at Person High School, where I taught from 2012 to 2023. During my time there, I developed a strong foundation in engaging students in meaningful science learning and building positive classroom communities. In 2023, I transitioned to Northern Middle School, where I continue to inspire students and foster curiosity in science. My experience across both high school and middle school levels has strengthened my ability to adapt instruction and support diverse learners. I am 39 years old and value the importance of balance between my professional and personal life. I am married and the proud parent of a ten-year-old daughter. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and caring for our many pets. 

Mission Statement

As a District Director for the North Carolina Science Teachers Association, I will be committed to promoting excellence in science education by fostering collaboration, communication, and professional growth among educators within my district. I will actively recruit and engage members, maintain consistent communication, and serve as a liaison between district educators and the NCSTA Board. I will be dedicated to supporting NCSTA initiatives by attending and contributing to board meetings, assisting with the Professional Development Institute (PDI), and soliciting high-quality presentations across grade levels. I will identify and encourage emerging leaders, recommend nominees for leadership roles, and promote recognition through awards programs. Through organized outreach, accurate reporting, and the distribution of resources, I will ensure that educators remain informed and connected. By building strong professional relationships and supporting district-level events, I aim to strengthen science education and advance the mission of NCSTA across my district.