In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Dr. Jennifer Barry, CEO of SmartLab, discusses the importance of STEM education and the concept of STEM identity, which emphasizes students' self-belief and belonging in the STEM fields. She shares her journey into education, the role of educators in fostering a productive learning environment, and the necessity of community involvement in creating sustainable STEM ecosystems. Dr. Barry highlights the significance of hands-on, project-based learning and the need for continuous support and training for educators to ensure long-term success in STEM education.
<h2><strong>Become a High-Impact Leader:</strong></h2>
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<h2><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></h2>
<ul>
 	<li><strong>Fostering STEM Identity</strong>: Building students' confidence and sense of belonging in STEM disciplines creates a foundation for lifelong learning.</li>
 	<li><strong>Creating Supportive Environments</strong>: The physical space and skilled facilitators together create the optimal conditions for STEM discovery and growth.</li>
 	<li><strong>Engaging the Community</strong>: Sustainable STEM programs thrive when businesses, families, and schools collaborate to support student learning.</li>
 	<li><strong>Breaking Classroom Boundaries</strong>: Effective STEM education connects classroom learning with real-world applications and community resources.</li>
 	<li><strong>Prioritizing Hands-On Learning</strong>: Project-based approaches allow students to physically engage with concepts, leading to deeper understanding.</li>
 	<li><strong>Supporting Educator Growth</strong>: Continuous professional development ensures teachers can confidently guide students through evolving STEM challenges.</li>
 	<li><strong>Building Integrated Systems</strong>: Successful STEM education harmonizes physical environment, curriculum design, and community partnerships.</li>
 	<li><strong>Including Parents as Partners</strong>: Family involvement reinforces STEM learning and helps students see its relevance in everyday life.</li>
 	<li><strong>Preparing Future-Ready Students</strong>: Today's STEM education develops the critical thinking and adaptability needed for tomorrow's careers.</li>
 	<li><strong>Harnessing the Power of Narrative</strong>: Stories about STEM applications and innovations help students envision their own potential contributions.</li>
</ul><br/>
<h2><strong>Chapters:</strong></h2>
<ul>
 	<li>00:00 Introduction to SmartLab and Dr. Jennifer Barry</li>
 	<li>01:57 The Journey to SmartLab: Dr. Barry's Background</li>
 	<li>05:38 Understanding STEM Identity and Its Importance</li>
 	<li>09:29 The Role of Educators in STEM Learning</li>
 	<li>13:34 Creating a Sustainable STEM Ecosystem</li>
 	<li>18:42 Community Involvement in STEM Education</li>
 	<li>21:51 The Future of STEM in Education</li>
 	<li>26:37 Observing Student Growth in SmartLab</li>
 	<li>32:24 Expanding STEM Opportunities Beyond Elementary School</li>
 	<li>36:51 Final Thoughts and Call to Action</li>
</ul><br/>
<h2><strong>About our Guest: Dr. Jennifer Berry</strong></h2>
<strong>Dr. Jennifer Berry</strong> is the Chief Executive Officer for SmartLab. She has an extensive track record leading innovation and growth in multiple top K-12 education businesses, and will further CLS’s mission to transform the lives of future generations through innovative, career-focused STEM education solutions. Dr. Berry has spent the last 15+ years in senior leadership positions for prominent K-12 organizations including Presence, After-School All-Stars, Quantum Learning, and Kaplan. Dr. Berry holds a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California (USC), and her commitment to education is inspired by her daughter and a love of lifelong learning. She is a resident of San Diego, California.

A student's STEM identity is their self-belief that they belong in STEM, can master rigorous challenges, and can make a meaningful impact. It's not a fixed trait—it's a mindset that develops through repeated moments of success, challenge, and recognition. At SmartLab, we treat STEM identity as a critical outcome of learning, not just an added benefit.
<h2>About Company</h2>
Since 1987, Creative Learning Systems has pioneered converting traditional learning environments to project-based learning experiences. Today, CLS partners with the most innovative school leaders nationwide to implement learning solutions that increase a student’s capacity through engaged, active, and social problem-solving. Our mission is to ensure that today’s students will be tomorrow’s leaders, prepared and ready to solve the complex challenges in our ever-changing world.
<h3>Links of Interest</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Website: <a href="https://www.smartlablearning.com/">https://www.smartlablearning.com/</a></li>
 	<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-learning-systems/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-learning-systems/</a></li>
</ul><br/>
<h2><strong>Let’s Work Together</strong></h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Contact Me Today: <a href="https://www.teachercast.net/contact">https://www.teachercast.net/contact</a></li>
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<h2>Subscribe to This Podcast</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828</a></li>
 	<li>Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7btbAI5CjqBgLhitJLMM8y?si=7d151287eb574845">https://open.spotify.com/show/7btbAI5CjqBgLhitJLMM8y?si=7d151287eb574845</a></li>
</ul><br/>
<h2>Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Digital Learning Today: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310</a></li>
 	<li>Ask the Tech Coach: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243</a></li>
 	<li>The Jeff Bradbury Show <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828</a></li>
</ul><br/>
<h2>Book Jeff for your Next Event</h2>
Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.
<ul>
 	<li>Visit Jeff’s Website: <a href="https://jeffreybradbury.com">https://jeffreybradbury.com</a></li>
 	<li>Contact Jeff Directly: <a href="https://jeffreybradbury.com/contact/">https://jeffreybradbury.com/contact/</a></li>
</ul><br/>
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