Hello!!!  I'm Ms. VK, and I am your elementary school STEM Specialist.  The 2023-24 school year marks my 10th year at Artondale Elementary.  I'm so happy to be back, and I can't wait to see everyone in person again.  I know there will be some new students at school, so I'm looking forward to getting to know all of you, and gladly welcome back all our returning otters.  Let's get ready for a fun filled year of teaching and learning!

So, why is my STEM teacher wearing a military uniform?  In between earning my Bachelor of Science degree from The University of Florida (GO GATORS!!!), and my Master of Education degree from Campbell University (GO CAMELS???),  I joined the Air Force (AIM HIGH!!!).  I am a retired Air Force Veteran, and have proudly served on both active duty and reserve status for 28 years as a C-141 Instructor Navigator, a unit commander, and a member of the Joint Base Staff at JBLM.   Teaching STEM and all that it entails is my absolute teaching dream job.  Outside of being an elementary classroom teacher since 2002, I've had the pleasure of teaching Middle School Science in the Peninsula School District in 2012, and was an Elementary School Technology and Science Specialist in the Cumberland County  School District in 2004.   Additionally, I have taught educational technology courses at WWU to our up an coming teacher candidates, and presented technology integration and best practices at the Washington State Teachers Association Conference in 2022. I am overjoyed to bring fun filled STEM lessons into the district, to enhance student curiosity, and encourage entry into STEM career fields of our ever changing world.  

My contact info: E-mail me any time at verdellakeenanp@psd401.net.