Three WPI Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) students, Jesse Drozd, Michael Nixdorf, and Samantha Simmons, accompanied by Physics Instructor TJ Noviello, attended the 2025 Noyce Summit in Washington, DC, in July 14-16, 2025, joining a national community of future STEM educators dedicated to transforming K–12 education.
(L-R) TJ Noviello, Michael Nixdorf, Samantha Simmons, Jesse Drozd
The Summit, Impacting STEM Students in Rural, Urban, and Indigenous Schools: Strategies for Teacher Success, brought together Noyce Scholars and educators from across the country to learn, connect, and discuss strategies for supporting new K-12 STEM teachers.
Jesse, Michael, and Samantha are part WPI’s GoATeach (Go And Teach) Noyce Scholarship Program, which recruits and prepares undergraduates in science, mathematics, and engineering to join the teaching profession at the secondary level to make a high impact on STEM education.
Jesse Drozd shared that the Summit was a great venue for networking and sharing teaching experiences and stories with other attendees, and especially valued participating in workshops specifically for chemistry teachers.
Michael Nixdorf appreciated discovering that other Noyce scholars had similar motivations for becoming teachers and enjoyed being surrounded by a community where educators are valued and respected.
Samantha Simmons said she enjoyed attending the Summit and connecting with educators across the country, and especially appreciated the opportunity to share the changes happening within WPI’s undergraduate program. She found it inspiring to hear how veteran educators create successful learning environments in their classrooms.
TJ Noviello noted, “It was a pleasure to share what has been developed by the team at the STEM Education Center and to highlight our growths, hurdles, and future plans for our students in the Teacher Preparation Program. It was also great to connect with others across the country, learn from their experiences, and consider how we might integrate their wisdom into our own program.”
TJ Noviello presenting a poster at the Noyce Summit Poster Session
The Summit experience energized our WPI Noyce Scholars as they prepare to bring their skills, passion, and commitment to high-need schools, continuing WPI’s mission to impact STEM education and foster the next generation of problem solvers.
