St. Francis Indian School Teachers Demonstrate Culturally Responsive STEM Education Methods

The Teacher’s Awards on Innovative Learning Showcase at St. Francis Indian School in the high school’s library demonstrated a significant shift in educational approach, where STEM, robotics, technology, and culturally responsive education came together to create a meaningful learning experience. As teachers participated in demonstration teaching and presentations, they displayed their technical skills and ability to incorporate cultural relevance into their lessons.

Teachers learned from each other by observing their peers' teaching methods and strategies, gaining insights and perspectives that enhance their own practice. This collaborative approach to professional development helps educators refine their skills, making their lessons more meaningful and relevant to students' lives. Sharing their expertise and experience creates a rich pool of knowledge that benefits the entire educational community.

“This recognition motivates us to strive for even greater excellence, as we are proud to represent our departments and contribute to the school's mission of providing high-quality education,” said Genesis Barbon, high school science teacher and first-place winner in both demonstration teaching categories.

With nine years of experience in education, he has held various leadership roles, including second Team Lead for the NASA TechRise Student Challenge, research advocate, and Knowledge Bowl Coach at LNI, demonstrating his dedication to innovation and academic excellence. He is passionate about fostering excellence in science instruction and continually improving his teaching methods through innovative skills and strategies. He feels grateful and honored to have the opportunity to be mentored by Alvin Esteron, Instructional Service Director, and Gina Curran, High School Principal.

Teachers can create a more inclusive and engaging classroom by including elements of Native American culture and heritage in their lessons. This approach honors students' cultural backgrounds and helps build trust, motivation, and a sense of belonging—all vital for academic success.

The Teachers’ Awards Innovative Learning Showcase was conceptualized and initiated by Maria Heidi Alaine V. Tahir, Ph.D., Gifted and Talented Education Director, in collaboration with Instructional Service Directors Alvin Esteron and Florie Malabanan.

The Teacher’s Awards Winners

Best Lesson Plan

• First Place: Teresa Gedaria, High School Special Education Teacher
• Second Place: Marissa Del Rosario, High School English Language Arts Teacher
• Third Place: Nyell De Sagun, Elementary Teacher

Best Project Proposal

• First Place: Babilonia Alvarez, High School Computer Teacher
• Second Place: Marissa Del Rosario, High School English Language Arts Teacher
• Third Place: Jomar Acosta, Reading & Math Intervention Teacher

Best in Demonstration Teaching 

• Innovative Strategies
  • First Place: Genesis B. Barbon, High School Science Teacher (First Place)
• Differentiation and Intervention Strategies
  • First Place: Genesis B. Barbon, High School Science Teacher
  • Second Place: Cheryl Estrera, High School Mathematics Teacher
  • Third Place: Jomar Acosta, Reading & Math Intervention Teacher

Essay Writing on Culturally Responsive Education

• First Place: Dera Iyotte, Assistant Director, Lakota Language Department