IPS James A. Garfield #31

James A. Garfield #31 is located in the Bates-Hendricks neighborhood on the Southwest side of Indianapolis. Garfield serves students who choose STEM programming for Zone 4 in grades Pre-K - fifth grade.

Superintendent Name: Aleesia Johnson

Superintendent Email: johnsonal@myips.org

Principal Name: Amanda Faulkner

Principal Email: faulknea@myips.org

STEM Chair Name: Kelsey High

STEM Chair Email: highk@myips.org

IPS STEM Schools will be STEM-certified institutions that empower our students to be influential leaders through equitable and diverse exposure, experiences, and events in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

IPS STEM Schools will educate all students to pursue their dreams as the diverse builders and leaders of tomorrow by exposing them to the principles of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

STEM literacy involves understanding and applying the principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to solve real-world challenges and create positive change. This connects directly with the Mission and Vision of IPS STEM Schools, which aim to empower students to become leaders by offering equitable and diverse opportunities in these fields.

Identifying and using STEM concepts: IPS STEM Schools focus on providing students with practical experiences in STEM, helping them recognize and apply core concepts to real-world situations.
Analyzing and evaluating complex problems: These schools encourage students to think critically, analyze challenges, and find innovative solutions, just as STEM literacy aims to prepare individuals to address complex problems.
Improving social, economic, and environmental outcomes: IPS STEM Schools emphasize how STEM can be used to positively impact society, similar to how STEM literacy involves understanding how these fields contribute to improving conditions locally and globally.
Diverse exposure and preparing future leaders: IPS STEM Schools aim to educate all students to become diverse builders, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow by exposing them to the STEM approach. This mirrors the idea of STEM literacy being accessible to all, equipping students with the tools to improve the world around them. We acknowledge that all students need the tools of STEM literacy, even if they choose a pathway outside of STEM.

The Mission and Vision Statements of IPS STEM Schools align with the concept of STEM literacy by empowering students to use their knowledge of STEM to become creative problem-solvers, collaborators, and leaders who make a positive impact. STEM literacy is applicable for learners regardless of what field they pursue post-graduation.

Superintendent Letter of Support for STEM Programming (1).pdf

Superintendent Letter of Support

Dr. Aleesia Johnson - Superintendent for Indianapolis Public Schools

Principal Letter of Support -JAG #31

Principal Letter of Support

Amanda Faulkner - Principal at James A. Garfield #31, a STEM School

Letter Support_Community Partner

Community Partner Letter of Support

Sally Mann - Senior Director of School and Community Outreach, Junior Achievement of Central Indiana

STEM School Leadership Team Biographies

Amanda Faulkner, Principal

Hello, I’m Amanda Faulkner, and I am proud to serve as the principal of James A. Garfield #31, a STEM school. . I hold a Master’s in Educational Leadership degree and am committed to lifelong learning, both for myself and for the entire school community. With over 28 years in education, my mission has always been to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed. I am deeply committed to fostering academic excellence and a positive, inclusive school culture where both students and educators thrive.

I am particularly proud of the work we’ve done to integrate STEM education into our curriculum, ensuring that our students are prepared for the demands of a rapidly changing world.

As principal, I strive to lead with integrity, compassion, and a deep belief in the potential of every child. I am passionate about creating opportunities for all students, no matter their background, to reach their full potential.

I am excited about the future of James A. Garfield #31, a STEM School, and I look forward to working alongside our talented staff, dedicated families, and, most importantly, our wonderful students as we continue to achieve great things together.

Delia McKissic, Assistant Principal

As the Assistant Principal at James A. Garfield, I’m dedicated to inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With a background in elementary education, I lead our team in creating hands-on, interdisciplinary learning experiences that challenge students to think critically, collaborate, and solve real-world problems.

I believe in the power of education to transform lives and am committed to fostering an inclusive, dynamic environment where all students feel empowered to explore their passions and reach their full potential. I focus on supporting teachers to ensure that our STEM programs are engaging, relevant, and impactful.

I’m always looking for new ways to inspire curiosity and creativity in our students.

Kelsey High, Senior STEM Coordinator

STEM education has been a deep passion of mine for several years, and I’ve had the privilege of teaching students from kindergarten through eighth grade. My journey into the STEM-focused field began as a PLTW (Project Lead The Way) K-6 teacher within Indianapolis Public Schools, where I discovered the power of hands-on, problem-based learning. I am incredibly grateful to work alongside a team of dedicated educators who share my enthusiasm for the profound impact STEM education can have on students' lives. Together, we are preparing our students to thrive in a rapidly changing world by fostering collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity.

At James A. Garfield #31, I support one of the five STEM Schools in our district, and it has been a joy to see the entire staff come together in commitment to providing a robust STEM education. We believe in making STEM accessible to all students, across every subject and learning space. Our collective dedication ensures that each student has the opportunity to engage with and excel in STEM, preparing them for future success in a variety of fields. In IPS, we encourage a multitude of pathways in STEM Education for all students (high school diploma, trades, college, military, fire and rescue, etc.)

Pam Berg, District Elementary STEM Coach

I am a passionate educator and STEM coach. I work with Indianapolis Public Schools to inspire and support the next generation of innovators. With over 30 years of teaching experience, I have dedicated my career to empowering students and fostering a love for learning, especially in STEM fields.

Originally from Louisiana, my journey as an educator began with a deep commitment to helping young minds grow. My teaching expertise spans multiple grade levels and subjects, with a focus on creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for success in the modern world. Over the years, I have become a mentor to both students and fellow educators, advocating for the importance of STEM education and its role in shaping future leaders.

In addition to my work as a teacher and STEM coach, I am a lifelong learner who continuously seeks to stay on top of new educational trends, tools, and strategies. My passion for teaching is matched only by my desire to see every student achieve their fullest potential.

Lesley Reising, STEM Teacher

Honored and blessed to be teaching PLTW Launch for the past two years. While teaching grades K-4, over the past 28 years, I brought my passion for science into the classroom. As technology evolved, that too was part of my classroom routine. PLTW allows students to think outside the box, develop the ability to work with others, create solutions to problems and use hands on materials. Watching students’ confidence build, being seen in a different light by peers and grow as a thinker is incredible.

Melinda Albaugh, Computer Science Teacher

I have been on a journey with STEM for the past 6 years. I knew STEM was something that could help my students with problem solving skills and foster a love for the inquiry process. I started with pattern blocks, straws and lots of tape! I have now ventured into the world of Computer Science. PLTW gave me the training and direction to fully implement STEM into my classes. After 35 of teaching, I am still on my journey and looking forward to more exciting experiences with our students in the world of STEM education.

Lucinda Belt, 4th Grade Teacher

I have been so privileged to have taught 29 years at JAG Elementary and being exposed to the STEM process through PLTW. I love seeing students collaboratively plan and create an interesting solution to a problem, and I feel that using the process promotes learning in all subject areas. I continue to learn new things along with my students and am amazed at some of the brilliant solutions I see to challenging problems.

Christopher Mount, 5th Grade Teacher

With over 13 years of experience in 5th-grade teaching and a career in education that began in high school, I am passionate about integrating STEM into all subject areas. As a general education teacher, I enjoy fostering students' critical thinking through STEM, watching their problem-solving discussions unfold in class. STEM challenges me to think creatively and incorporate innovative techniques, ensuring a dynamic, forward-thinking learning environment.

Alicia Cortes Gonzalez, FACE Liason

I have been a part of IPS for the past 7 years, all at James A. Garfield #31. My current role supports both students and families. I have been a part of this community for my entire life. STEM education has been a key pillar in our school for over 7 years. This shift has brought more families and additional learning opportunities to our school community.

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