This month’s leadership spotlight features Dr. Treesa Elam-Respass. Dr. Treesa Elam-Respass brings more than three decades of experience in education and science leadership, beginning as a high school chemistry teacher and serving as a mentor, Assessment Coach, Secondary Science Instructional Specialist, principal, and Supervisor of the Howard B. Owens Science Center. She holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Grambling State University, an M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Maryland College, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership & Policy from the University of Maryland College Park. Her philosophy extends beyond teaching students to know science; she wants them to live science: “I don’t just want students to learn science. I want them to live science—with clear knowledge, understanding, facts, critical-thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities that prepare them to become responsible, progressive, and productive adults.” For Dr. Elam-Respass, science is more than a subject. It is a way of thinking, solving problems, making decisions, and improving lives.

Tell us about your background in science education, including your current role. 

I earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Grambling State University, a M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Maryland College, and an Ed.D. from the University of Maryland, College Park in Educational Leadership and Policy; In 1996, I began as a High School Chemistry, Physics and Environmental Science Teacher. Then, became an elementary school Principal and supervised Howard B. Owens Science Center. I have worked in charter, private, and public school settings as a school-based and district level leader. Currently I serve as a Secondary Science Instructional Specialist by coordinating and facilitating professional learning for middle and high school teachers. Other times, I oversee and monitor curriculum and instruction and develop science assessments.

Why did you join NSELA, and what is one benefit that you have found as a member? 

I joined NSELA to connect with other science education leaders, expand my professional network, and stay informed about innovative practices and emerging trends in science education. One benefit I have found as a member is the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with other leaders who share a commitment to strengthening science instruction, supporting educators, and improving student outcomes.

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

Being able to support science educators beyond the individual classroom by helping build their capacity as instructional leaders. I value opportunities to bring educators together through professional learning, collaboration, and shared problem-solving so that they can strengthen their practice and positively impact student learning. For me, leadership is not simply about what I accomplish individually; it is about what I help other educators accomplish.

What has been a challenge for you as a leader, and what did you learn from it?

You learn resilience, perseverance and the importance of using data to inform decisions while remembering that behind every data point is a teacher, a student, or a school with unique needs.  One of my greatest challenges has been balancing the need to move instructional priorities forward with recognizing that people are at different stages of readiness for change.

What advice do you have for science educators who want to step into leadership roles? 

Lead with integrity, be fair and flexible. Find time for self-care after giving your all. Lead where you are before waiting for a leadership title. Be willing to share resources, collaborate with colleagues, ask thoughtful questions, mentor others, and contribute to solutions when challenges arise.

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

One principle that has stayed with me is that leadership is not about being the smartest person in the room; it is about helping everyone in the room become better. I believe the most effective leaders build other leaders. And meet for a reason and purpose. Walk away with clarity, actionable next steps, and a shared understanding of what needs to happen next.

As a lifelong learner, what’s something you’re eager to learn more about right now? 

I continue to learn more about how artificial intelligence influences science teaching and learning without replacing the critical thinking, curiosity, and hands-on experiences that make science meaningful.