As a passionate Lower and Middle School Science Teacher at The Browning School, Joan Gillman was recently honored as the “Top Leading Inspirational Woman in Education, 2024” by CToday Awards. Her dedication to fostering curiosity, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship among her students is shaping the future of education in profound ways. Joan’s journey into teaching started in high school, where she discovered a love for mentoring younger students through community service, tutoring, and volunteer roles. These early experiences instilled in her a belief in the power of inclusivity and the importance of giving each child a chance to shine.

Selected for her Vision for Inclusive Learning

Joan’s approach to teaching emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and ensuring that every student feels seen and valued. She recalls how, even as a young volunteer, she created playground games that included all children, regardless of athletic ability. This early commitment to inclusivity still guides her teaching philosophy today. “Children need to understand compassion, dignity, and respect,” Joan explains, “so they can thrive both in and outside the classroom.” Her science classes create a nurturing environment where each student has the opportunity to explore, contribute, and succeed.

Instilling a Lifelong Passion for Science

With a natural curiosity about science and engineering from a young age, Joan fondly remembers conducting “experiments” in her bathroom and building robots with her brother. She now channels that same wonder and excitement into her teaching, helping students see science as an accessible and empowering field. “Every child has an innate curiosity about the world, and I aim to preserve and nurture that,” she shares. Her lessons are designed to engage and inspire students, encouraging them to see science as a tool for understanding and impacting the world.

Environmental Advocacy in Action

As one of the leaders of The Browning School’s Green Team, Joan has made environmental education a central theme in her work. Her students have undertaken meaningful projects, such as fundraising for clean water initiatives and participating in park cleanups. She recalls a powerful lesson on water shortages that inspired a sixth-grade student to join the Green Team and make a difference. Joan’s dedication goes beyond teaching concepts; she encourages students to apply their knowledge and become active participants in environmental conservation. “I want my students to leave with a sense of responsibility to our planet,” she says, “so they can make wise decisions as future leaders.”

A Project-Based and Interdisciplinary Approach

Joan’s teaching philosophy centers on project-based learning, which she believes is more engaging and memorable for students. “When students present a project they’ve designed themselves, they retain the information better and feel a sense of pride,” she explains. By incorporating other subjects into her science curriculum, she helps students understand the interconnectedness of knowledge. Her classes may involve storytelling, creative raps, or collaborative projects, ensuring that each lesson feels relevant and exciting.

Advice for Aspiring Educators

For Joan, teaching is not a “one-size-fits-all” profession. She encourages fellow educators to find unique ways to connect with each student, tailoring lessons to meet individual needs and interests. Her advice is clear: “Create a space where students feel comfortable, confident, and curious. Education is about more than just covering material; it’s about building connections and sparking a lifelong love for learning.” Through her innovative and compassionate approach, Joan is redefining science education and leaving a legacy that her students will carry forward into their own lives. With a focus on inclusivity, environmental consciousness, and interdisciplinary learning, Joan continues to inspire the next generation to become thoughtful, capable, and responsible leaders.