To provide a free web-based platform for teachers who seek to promote innovation, collaboration, and inspiration through highly vetted science resources and experts.
OUR MISSION
OUR VISION
Teachers have the tools to engage all students in relevant and purposeful content; relabeling classroom learning with a systems thinking approach.
Our Story
We are a team of dedicated individuals who want to see a change in education. Our backgrounds provide us front-line insight on how to best serve education innovation. Our goal is to help teachers obtain the resources necessary to develop opportunities for authentic exploration in their classrooms.
While there are many options available to teachers to develop engaging lesson plans, we connect you with free resources. Often times teachers struggle to find the time, resources and finances to build engaging lessons to cultivate student growth.
This is where we at Authentic Explorations Matters come in! As a non-profit organization, we are here to highlight organizations that supply resources and help connect teachers with the supplies and materials that they need FOR FREE!
Meet The Founder and Director
Meet The Education Coordinator
Ashley Hollern
Founder and Executive Director
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M.S. Science of Instruction, Drexel University
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B.S. Biology, minor Chemistry University of Pittsburgh
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HS Biology Teacher
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Former College Instructor
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NASA Endeavor instructor
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PBS Coral Project Feature
I am a mother of four children; two boys and two girls. I have worked in the field of science education for over 17 years during which time I have taught high school, middle school, and college science classes. I believe that students of all ages should engage in real-world problem-solving opportunities, and learn the value of partnerships. I know firsthand from my work with the @PBDAcoralproject, and the @wps_project2020 that when students have the opportunity to own the outcomes of a project, a new world of education is experienced by the students and the teachers. I am an advocate for change in education by supporting teachers. I strongly believe all change in society starts with educators.
Kirstin Kowan
Education Coordinator
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B.S. in Education, University of Nebraska
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Certified National Geographic educator
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Citizen scientist for Team ORCA
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OCPS Sustainability board member
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Trained Climate Reality Leadership Corps member
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Volunteer with Make-A-Wish Foundation, and The Nature Conservancy
I love spending time outside camping, hiking, kayaking, reading, photography, and getting lost as that is when I find some of the most magical places. I have always loved to explore the Earth. I love helping youth learn about how their actions and their voices can make a difference. I love educating youth in a hands-on approach and seeing the “a-ha” moments when they really make genuine connections to a topic. I am a mom of two, Earth advocate, and free spirit. I have been working with youth for 6 years and love teaching young minds.
Meet The Board
Tiffany Alraefae
President
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School Leader. Global Educator. Wellbeing Champion. STEAM Facilitator. Inclusion and Belonging Advocate.
Jennifer Donaldson
Treasurer
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Of Counsel at Eastburn and Gray, PC
Tim Rumage
Secretary
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Professor of Environmental Studies at Ringling College of Art and Design
Our Partners
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