Bringing women and students of color into Robotics and Rocketry
Arizona Teacher of the Year, Nancy Parra-Quinlan teaching robotics at Kino Junior High
Nancy Parra-Quinlan, Arizona’s 2022 teacher of the year, teaches engineering, robotics, flight, and space to create excitement for her students at Kino Junior High School. In addition to being a teacher and club mentor, she also volunteers with the Civil Air Patrol as statewide Assistant Director of Aerospace Education. Parra-Quinlan’s approach to teaching is part of a long-term effort to help more women and students of color enter the STEM field. Her teaching practices include captivating lessons, building relationships, and hands-on activities. She looks for the twinkle, the spark, the glimmer that shows that her students are excited about learning. As a 28 year educator, her advice is to surround yourself with people you can talk to and share ideas with.
