Pranjali Upadhyay is the Integrated Curriculum Specialist for STEM Initiatives.
How long have you worked for ESD 112 and what does your job entail?
2 months. I am the Integrated Curriculum Specialist for the STEM Initiatives team which is a part of the Teaching and Learning Department. I work with our STEM Director (Vickei) and our content Coordinators (Science, Math, and ELA) to build problem-based and standards-aligned curriculum for our schools. Professional development and instructional coaching is also a part of my job.
What do you like best about your job?
Working with our STEM director Vickei Hrdina and with the STEM Initiatives team (Stacy Meyer, Molly Daley, and Effie Triol)!
What do you find most challenging about your job?
The constant state of disequilibrium and equilibrium (learning) I experience on a daily basis. I am thankful for it because it will keep me sharp!
Single? Married? Kids? Pets?
I am married to a superhero and we have a super charming 2-year-old son.
What do you enjoy doing with your free time?
Sitting at the beach/river while watching/listening to the water, shopping, painting, binge-watching T.V. shows, reading poetry, cooking (not baking).
If you could live in a book, TV show or movie, what would it be?
Star Wars
What animal best represents you and why?
A sloth, because I enjoy being physically inactive.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?
Astro-projection, so I could travel to different realms and navigate the dream-world (and plant ideas of world peace in the minds of key global figures).
What’s your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas. Because I love listening to Holiday music from the day after Halloween till the New Year.
If you could abolish one piece of modern technology, what would it be and why?
Radar Speed Guns. Speeding tickets are so pointless!
Pranjali forgot to mention that she is also a superhero – A STEM SUPERHERO!!!!