Making an Impact Through Science

In the coming years, Putnam County could likely see a surge in the number of students who were influenced by teacher Christina Griffis to become climate scientists, bio-technologists, data analysts, astronomers and engineers.

The 47-year-old East Palatka resident, who until Sept. 8 had been a teacher at Putnam County Academy of Arts and Sciences in Palatka since 2016, was among 100 educators from across the country that the Society for Science chose for its Advocate Program to inspire future STEM leaders.

Griffis said science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields have so many opportunities for students and she wants them to realize the programs are not as scary as they sound.

“STEM degrees impact everyone’s life,” the former Putnam Academy teacher said. “We build and program the robots that are used to benefit human lives.”

Griffis said STEM programs at Putnam Academy focus on coding and engineering practices.

“We have a small group that is also learning about Chromebook and computer repairs,” she said. “These are all real-world skills that every individual should be exposed to that will help them be successful in life. These areas assist students in developing important critical thinking skills.”

Griffis has always gravitated toward science and holds a licensed practical nursing degree she received in 1998. She also graduated from Liberty University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

“While I was in school, I learned how to write code and program,” she said.

According to a news release from the Society for Science, this year’s recipients come from 36 states, the District of Columbia and the Northern Mariana Islands commonwealth. Thirty-six of the honorees are middle school teachers, while 52 are high school teachers.

The organization said 87 of the recipients, including Griffis, will receive a $3,000 stipend that requires them to submit quarterly reports.

Maya Ajmera, president and CEO of the Society for Science and executive publisher of Science News, said the advocate program showcases the profound impact educators have on shaping the trajectory of future STEM problem-solvers and innovators.

“This year’s exceptional group of 100 teachers exemplifies the dedication and passion it takes to inspire and mentor the next generation of STEM leaders,” she said. “Through STEM competitions, students not only showcase their research projects, but also forge meaningful friendships and collaborations that will accompany them on their STEM journeys.”

Griffis and other honorees assembled at the Advocate Training Institute in Washington, D.C., where they learned about being an advocate for science.

“I learned how to bring more recognition and opportunities to my students through science and science fair competition,” said Griffis, who was invited to return in the summer of 2024 as a lead advocate. “I learned about grant and funding opportunities for students and the school.”

Other benefits from the trip included seminars, learning how to obtain free supplies, and finding out how to gain exposure and grants for schools, among other items. Putnam Academy will also receive Science magazine, which students can use for their research projects.

“I feel we have students in Putnam County that definitely have talent in the science/STEM field and deserve to be recognized and receive these benefits,” Griffis said.

Griffis believes the Society for Science program will give recognition to Putnam Academy students, which will allow them to apply for scholarships, go on trips for competitions and collaborate with other like-minded students their age.

“Last year was the first year our school had a science fair,” she said. “Through this program and training, I learned my students were doing the same science fair experiments and investigations as other students around the country, we just need more exposure to earn the award and recognition that these other schools earn and receive.”

This is Griffis’ first Society for Science award. She also serves as a community leader for the International Society for Technology Teachers and was named the Farm Bureau advocate for literacy. Griffis was named Putnam County Teacher of the Year for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Although Griffis has left the Putnam Academy, she still wants her former students to dream big and accomplish great things.

“I hope my former students are already making plans to take part in the science fair,” she said. “This will focus on or around the scientific method/engineering design process as well as incorporating data and communication skills.”

Griffis said she is proud to have been one of the 100 recipients. The honor looks good for not only her, but for her former school, its students and its employees, she said.

“It allows my school and Putnam County to be talked about and presented in a more favorable light,” Griffis said. “We have a lot of good things that happen at the school. My students are important and should be seen and celebrated.”