In the hallways of V. Sue Cleveland High School (CHS), STEAM and Robotics teacher Ashli Knoell is a dynamic force, known for her enthusiasm, innovation, and connection with her students. Since taking over the STEAM and Robotics classes at CHS a few years ago, Knoell’s positive energy and ability to connect with learners of all backgrounds has built a solid foundation for learning in her classroom, and her students consistently achieve at high levels in the school and district. Knoell’s passion for science education, woven throughout everything she does at CHS and in the Rio Rancho community, is designed to instill a mutual love of learning in her students.
Knoell currently teaches three levels of STEAM and Robotics classes, and her classroom is a hive of activity, creativity and collaboration. She seamlessly integrates STEAM into various subject areas, forging partnerships with community agencies and businesses, including Tamaya Ventures, TESLA and the New Mexico Regional Education Cooperatives Association. She also looks beyond her classroom walls to engage in extracurricular leadership opportunities, including sponsoring or co-sponsoring a range of STEAM and robotics clubs, highlighting her commitment to encouraging real-world applications of classroom learning for her students.
Beyond the classroom, Knoell serves as a mentor to new teachers; an instructional leader for the ninth grade; and the coordinator of the Near Peer program, providing tutoring to high school students through a grant-funded initiative. Her involvement at the state level, particularly with the International Society of Technology in Education’s (ISTE) professional learning communities, reflects her dedication to continuous professional growth.
Knoell received a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from the University of New Mexico in 2010 and a Master of Science for Teachers from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech) in 2017.
Press release: Surprise! Exceptional Educator at V. Sue Cleveland High School Receives Milken Educator Award and $25,000 Cash Prize
