Samantha Agoos - State Science Supervisor and STEM Lead, Colorado Department of Education

Since early 2023, Samantha (Sam) Agoos has served as the State Science Supervisor and STEM Lead for the Colorado Department of Education. Sam leads statewide science education initiatives, impacting 880,000+ students, and leads the STEM Team for the Standards and Instructional Support office. She was a key contributor to the Colorado Roadmap for AI In K-12 Education and the state K-12 Quantum Blueprint; led the STEM Team in revising the STEM Plan to include Generative AI and Quantum Computing. In her role, Sam has delivered over 485 hours of professional learning and targeted consultations with Colorado school districts and led the revision of the Colorado State Science Standards as well as the annual science item review process for the state standardized tests. Prior to leading science education for the state, Sam was a science teacher and science department chair at Denver East High School and co-authored the Serengeti storyline for InquiryHub (iHub).

Can you describe your current leadership role?

On paper, my role falls into three main categories: 1) Technical assistance: Supporting districts and LEAs in implementing Colorado’s science standards through consultations, professional learning communities, ongoing sessions, and representing CDE at conferences. 2) Policy implementation: Translating state laws, policies, and Governor’s initiatives into action in science and interdisciplinary STEM. 3)Network building: Connecting PK–12 science and technology educators across the state to ensure coherent messaging, responsive support, and alignment with broader goals like postsecondary workforce development.

In practice, I anchor my leadership in Katz’s Leadership Hierarchy. While it may be considered old-school, I value its clarity: strategic thinking, relationship-building, and technical expertise. This framework keeps me focused on what matters most: equity, evidence-based practices, and leveraging the best of both education and business principles. That means clear communication, strong value propositions, shared goals, and measurable outcomes.

What has been a success of your leadership in Colorado that you are most proud of?

I’m most proud of the relationships and networks we’re co-constructing across Colorado. Our educators are incredible; they're hardworking, creative, and deeply committed to their students. Elevating their work and celebrating their successes is the best part of my job.

One tangible outcome of this collaboration is the Colorado K–12 Science and Technology Work-Based Learning Resource Toolkit, which we co-developed with Colorado educators, Angela Landrum, and Dr. Sara Cooper. We’re also expanding the Assessment Library with open-source, work-based learning tasks to increase access and opportunity for all.

What has been a challenge for you as a leader?

Meeting the diverse and often competing needs of K–12 educators. Every district, school, and classroom has its own context, and balancing those needs while staying aligned with state goals is a constant challenge. That said, it’s a meaningful challenge. It pushes me to provide individualized support and, more importantly, to be a better listener. 

What’s the best advice anyone has given you as a science leader?

“Just focus on doing your job well.” It’s simple, but powerful. In other words: stay grounded, stay focused, and stay aligned with your core values. 

Why did you join NSELA and what are you most looking forward to as a member?

I joined NSELA to be part of a community that shares my passion for science education leadership. I’m looking forward to learning from others, contributing to the field, and engaging in thought-provoking conversations that challenge my thinking. 

Who are some of the leaders in education who have inspired you, and how have they inspired you?

So many incredible humans have shaped my journey:

• Dr. Danny Morales-Doyle: He showed me what it means to live by your values, even when it’s hard. His emotional labor and honesty helped me grow as a human being in ways I didn’t know I needed. I didn’t earn that grace, but I’m deeply grateful for it.

• Dr. Sara Cooper: A master of student-centered leadership. She reminds me daily that this work can be rigorous, joyful, and wildly creative.

• Angela Landrum: A true sage.

• Dr. Jen Slavick, Dr. Sam Messier, Todd Katz, Jeanne Schick, Joe Glover, Lindsay Anderson, Dr. Andrea Mobley, Amy Hanson, Jessica Taylor: thank you for your wisdom, generosity, and example.

What do you do for personal enjoyment outside of your professional life?

I live in Southern Colorado and love spending time outdoors with my partner and our two young children. I’m also a big fan of ghost stories and anything spooky. I enjoy renovating our home, and while I don’t currently have any, I’m a devoted cat person.