Sandra Wilder

Dr. Wilder is a dedicated STEM leader with extensive experience driving statewide educational initiatives and professional learning. Currently serving as the Director of the Ohio STEM Learning Network, she oversees the statewide STE(A)M designation process and collaborates with the Department of Education and Workforce, regional hubs, and schools across Ohio to foster innovative learning communities. Recognized for her execution and logistical excellence, she leads the development and implementation of support for K-12 schools transitioning toward STEM culture, education, and STEM workforce readiness. Her experience as an educator and leader at secondary and post-secondary levels has cultivated Sandra’s passion for positioning all students and educators to succeed in STEM-related fields. Her research focuses on student-centered approaches to teaching and integrated teaching and learning methods.

Where She Leads

Sandra directs the leadership and professional learning programs and resources offered through the Ohio STEM Learning Network. She is a passionate advocate for teachers and leaders, believing that engaging in dynamic, personalized professional learning is a vital pathway to student success. By investing in and supporting educators, leaders, schools, and industry and community partners, she helps create the high-quality learning environments students deserve.

Expertise

  • Championing STEM education as an authentic pathway for students to learn and apply content in relevant manners.
  • Developing protocols for the integration of teaching and learning across diverse K-12 disciplines.
  • Designing and leading transformational programs for school leaders, instructional coaches, and educators
  • Conducting educational research focusing on student-centered instructional methods, including problem-based and inquiry-based learning.
  • Expertise in math education, STE pedagogy, student mindsets, and team coaching.

Previous Experience

  • Senior STEM Relationship Manager, Ohio STEM Learning Network, Battelle
  • District Instructional Specialist, Akron Public Schools
  • Mathematics Educator and In-Service Teacher Educator, Bio-Med Science Academy STEM School
  • Administrator, Adjunct Faculty, The University of Akron

Education

  • D. in Secondary Education, The University of Akron
  • S. in Applied Mathematics, The University of Akron
  • S. in Applied Mathematics, The University of Akron
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Six Sigma Global Institute
  • Leading People and Teams Specialization, University of Michigan

Service to Profession

Dr. Wilder is a dynamic scholar and speaker whose work bridges the gap between educational research and classroom practice. Her research extensively covers student-centered instructional methods, such as problem-based and inquiry-based learning, as well as the critical role of parental involvement in academic achievement. Sandra is committed to advancing the field of education through active leadership and service at the state and local levels. She has contributed to the strategic direction of mathematics education as a member of the Advisory Group for Ohio’s Plan for K-12 Mathematics and has actively participated in working groups for the Ohio Department of Education, specifically focusing on Mathematics State Standards and Data Science Foundations. Sandra also supports the wider academic community as a peer reviewer for several prestigious publications.