Puentes & Possibilities

About Puentes & Possibilities

Join a community exploring the evolving landscape of STEM education through diverse global perspectives with an emphasis on real-world learning opportunities. Learn from educators, innovators and changemakers across industries, as we discover practical tools and actionable ways to drive meaningful change in education together.

Publisher

Coral Zayas

Category

education · science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

15 Feb 2026

Latest episode

6 Apr 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Apr 2026

   Episode 8 Part 2: Connecting Student Learning to Real World Problem Solving

   Podcast Host: Coral Zayas- Author of Teaching K-5 Science Website (www.coralzayas.com): Instagram (www.instagram.com/thrive_with_coral): LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/coralzayas): Guest Name Brianna Amingwa- Founder of Deeply Rooted Outdoor Education (MD) Stay Connected and Free Resources: DROE Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/deeplyrootedoutdoored/): Website - www.droe.org (http://www.droe.org) Email - education@droe.org (mailto:education@droe.org) Link to download some of the resources shared: Free Outdoor Investigation Toolkit! (https://learn.droe.org/inquiry-through-birds-page) Content Type Interview Primary Goal Educational Summary In this episode, Coral Zayas interviews environmental educator Bri Amingwa to explore outdoor learning, its benefits, and practical strategies for educators to incorporate nature into science education. Discover how outdoor activities boost student engagement, behavior, and problem-solving skills, especially in urban settings. keywords outdoor education, science teaching, environmental education, place-based learning, student engagement, outdoor activities, teacher resources, inquiry-based learning, nature in the classroom, STEM education key topics Outdoor education benefits for students Strategies for teachers to implement outdoor learning Impact of nature on student behavior and engagement Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Puentes and Possibilities 01:11 Exploring Chapter Eight: Real World Problem Solving 01:56 Meet Ranger Brie: A Journey into Outdoor Education 03:10 The Importance of Environmental Education 07:09 Supporting Educators in Outdoor Learning 10:27 Behavioral Benefits of Outdoor Learning 10:56 Problem Solving in Outdoor Settings 13:28 Building Comfort and Confidence Outdoors 16:22 Advice for Incorporating Outdoor Learning resources iNaturalist App - https://inaturalist.org/ (https://inaturalist.org/) Seek by iNaturalist - https://inaturalist.org/seek (https://inaturalist.org/seek)

2. 

   29 Mar 2026

   Episode 8: Connecting Student Learning to Real World Problem Solving

   Podcast Speakers Host- Coral Zayas Author of Teaching K-5 Science (www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) Connect with Coral on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/coralzayas) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/thrive_with_coral) Guest Name Yaritza Villalba Website: McKenzie's Adventures | Discover. Innovate. Empower. Join Us! (https://www.mckenziesadventures.com/) LinkedIn: Yaritza Villalba | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaritza-villalba/) STEM for Change Instagram: STEM FOR CHANGE (@stem_for_change) (https://www.instagram.com/stem_for_change/) content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode, Coral Zayas interviews Yaritza Villalba about her journey into global education, the integration of project-based learning with real-world issues, and how educators can connect local and global experiences to enhance student engagement. They explore strategies for culturally responsive teaching, leveraging technology, and fostering international collaborations to prepare students for a sustainable future. keywords Global Education, Project-Based Learning, UN Sustainable Development Goals, EdTech, Culturally Responsive Teaching, STEM, International Collaboration, Student Engagement, Sustainable Development, Education Innovation key topics Yaritza Villalba's personal journey and global education advocacy Using UN Sustainable Development Goals to frame student projects Strategies for culturally responsive and inclusive teaching Leveraging EdTech like Flipgrid to connect classrooms worldwide Practical tips for integrating global issues into local curricula sound bites "Education was my key to success." "Know your students' interests and experiences." "Move from standardized to exploratory grading." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Book 01:08 Connecting Learning to Real-World Problem Solving 02:02 Guest Introduction: Yaritza Villalba 02:45 Yaritza's Journey into Global Education 06:31 Balancing Roles in Education 10:36 Global Education and Local Connections 16:52 Misconceptions in Project-Based Learning resources McKenzie's Adventures Website - https://www.mckenziesadventures.com/ (https://www.mckenziesadventures.com/) UN Sustainable Development Goals - globalgoals.org (http://globalgoals.org)

3. 

   29 Mar 2026

   Episode 7: From Science to STEAM and Beyond

   From Science to STEAM and Beyond Explore how educators can shift from siloed subjects to an interdisciplinary approach, infusing STEM, STEAM, and AI responsibly. Featuring Dr. Fonz, a leader in educational technology and AI ethics, this episode offers strategies for meaningful tech integration, fostering collaboration, and preparing students for a connected future. Podcast Speakers: Coral Zayas: Host and Author of Teaching K-5 Science (www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) Connect with Coral: LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/coralzayas) Website (www.coralzayas.com) Instagram (www.instagram.com/thrive_with_coral) Dr. Alfonso Mendoza: Founder and Host of My EdTech Podcast Connect With Dr. Mendoza: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfonsomendoza) Twitter (https://twitter.com/DrFonz) All Social Media: @myedtechlife Website (www.myedtech.life) Key Topics: Evolution of STEM and STEAM definitions and their teaching implications. Technology as a co-creator in classrooms. Practical STEM integration for science teachers. Natural cross-disciplinary connections. Teachers as interdisciplinary learning engineers. Ethical, privacy, and safety considerations in AI and edtech. Tools like Kami for inclusive, personalized learning. Developing AI and digital literacy. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Importance of interdisciplinary teaching 00:56 - STEM, STEAM, STREAM definitions 01:54 - Shifting teacher mindsets 03:08 - Guest: Dr. Fonz's expertise in EdTech and AI ethics 06:20 - Dr. Fonz’s journey in education 08:21 - Incorporating technology in elementary science 10:18 - Technology enhancing soft skills 12:42 - Real-world connections with digital tools 16:48 - Strategies for natural cross-disciplinary learning 19:54 - Connecting learning across subjects 23:30 - Teachers fostering a collaborative mindset 25:25 - Safety and ethics in AI education 26:25 - Developing responsible AI policies 29:20 - AI’s impact on student data and privacy 34:32 - AI literacy and data privacy 37:37 - Ongoing training and community engagement 40:45 - Kami supporting diverse learners 47:12 - Importance of linguistic and cultural support 49:36 - Educators transforming STEM and edtech integration Additional Notes: True STEM and AI integration requires a mindset shift, careful planning, and ethical reflection. Design interconnected learning experiences, build teacher capacity, and prioritize student safety and agency.

4. 

   23 Mar 2026

   Episode 6: Shifting Lands to Starry Skies: Earth and Space Science

   This episode highlights that effective science teaching goes beyond textbooks—it's about community engagement, resourcefulness, and inspiring students to see themselves as future scientists and global changemakers. Connect with Podcast Host- Coral Zayas: Website (www.coralzayas.com) LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/coralzayas) Instagram (www.instagram.com/thrive_with_coral) Connect with Guest Speaker- Taniece Thompson-Smith: LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/taniece-thompson-smith) Linktree (https://linktr.ee/taniecetsmith) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/taniecetsmith/) Her Blog: Teaching Ever After (https://teachingeverafter.com/) Resources & Links: Teaching K-5 Science by Coral Zayas (www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) Skype a Scientist (https://skypeascientist.com/) Main insights: Taniece's journey from a student inspired by her aunt to a nationally recognized educator The power of hands-on experiments, like glacier modeling with ice and sand, to teach complex landform concepts Using multimedia, videos, and real-world samples (fossil fuels, sedimentary rocks) to connect science to everyday life The importance of integrating community partnerships, such as local geologists and meteorologists, to enhance student understanding Strategies to make abstract concepts like weather and climate tangible through media and expert involvement The role of reflection, collaborative learning, and fostering citizen science literacy within elementary science classrooms Overcoming challenges in teaching science with transparency, community collaboration, and resourcefulness Encouraging student belief in their potential through exposure to diverse careers, including military and space sectors

5. 

   16 Mar 2026

   Episode 5: From the Kitchen to the Amusement Park- Investigating Physical Science

   Get To Know The Podcast Speakers: Coral Zayas is the Author of Teaching K-5 Science - Encouraging Exploration, Inquiry and Problem Solving and host of the Puentes & Possibilities podcast. She has spent almost 20 years in education, from K-12, higher education, and in the education nonprofit and policy space. You can find out more about Coral and her new book at her website: www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science (http://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) Special Guest: Lori Cavallo- Lori has spent over two decades evolving alongside her students in New Jersey. Over the years, she found my rhythm across the elementary grades particularly 3-5th grade. She has an undergraduate degree in Recreation Administration and a Master’s in Educational Leadership. Today, she channels her experience into her role as a teacher fellow at The College of New Jersey in a program dedicated to Sustainable Innovative STEM. This position allows her to merge my years of practical classroom knowledge with forward-thinking strategies for the future of environmental topics in science. Podcast Preview The podcast episode features an introduction to the podcast, a sneak peek into chapter five of Coral's new book Teaching K-5 Science - Encouraging Exploration, Inquiry and Problem Solving and an interview with special guest Lori Cavallo, an educator in New Jersey. The conversation covers topics such as teaching physical science to young learners, making science tangible for elementary students, successful lessons in physical science, creating safe opportunities for experimentation, and addressing physical science misconceptions. The episode emphasizes the importance of community among educators and the value of hands-on learning for students. Takeaways Connecting with community to extend both teacher and student learning out of the classroom Hands-on learning in physical science Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 05:37 Making Science Tangible for Elementary Students 12:06 Addressing Physical Science Misconceptions

6. 

   9 Mar 2026

   Episode 4: Bettles, Butterflies and Bears, oh my! Making Life Science Come Alive

   Podcast Participants: Host: Coral Zayas www.coralzayas.com (http://www.coralzayas.com) www.linkedin.com/in/coralzayas (http://www.linkedin.com/in/coralzayas) www.instagram.com/thrive_with_coral (http://www.instagram.com/thrive_with_coral) www.youtube.com/@coralzayas (http://www.youtube.com/@coralzayas) Podcast Guest: Rodney Crouse https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodney-crouse-70394324/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodney-crouse-70394324/) Resources Teaching K-5 Science by Coral Zayas: www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science (http://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) John Muir Laws Nature Journaling Resources - https://johnmuirlaws.com/nature-journaling/ (https://johnmuirlaws.com/nature-journaling/) Sustainable Human YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/user/SustainableHuman (https://www.youtube.com/user/SustainableHuman) Content Type Interview Primary goal Educational Summary This episode explores life science in elementary education, featuring expert insights on engaging students with real-world phenomena, misconceptions, and outdoor learning strategies. Discover practical tips to foster curiosity and deepen understanding in young learners. Keywords life science, elementary education, STEM, STEAM, science activities, student misconceptions, outdoor learning, student curiosity, teaching strategies Key topics Life science standards in K-5 Engaging students with real-world phenomena Addressing misconceptions in science Outdoor and nature-based learning strategies Key frameworks NGSS standards for life science See, Think, Wonder thinking routine Action items Incorporate outdoor nature journaling into lessons Use free or recycled materials for science investigations Create small ecosystems in the classroom for observation Titles Unlocking Life Science: 5 Strategies to Spark Curiosity in Elementary Students From Strawberries to Ecosystems: Engaging Life Science Lessons for Kids Sound Bites "Everything is connected in our world" "We are all connected, regardless of wings or legs" "Nature journaling is where you need to start" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:53 Overview of Episode and Chapter Focus 01:45 Deep Dive into Life Science Standards 03:10 Guest Introduction: Rodney's Background 03:36 Personal Journey and Passion for Relationships in Teaching 06:59 A Favorite Life Science Investigation: DNA from Strawberries 09:24 Addressing Misconceptions in Life Science 15:47 Bringing Authentic Phenomena into the Classroom 19:23 Outdoor Learning and Nature Journaling 21:00 Closing Remarks and Bonus Content

7. 

   6 Mar 2026

   Episode 3 Part 2: All Means All - Strategies to Engage Students in Science

   Connect With Our Two Speakers: Coral Zayas: Puentes & Possibilities Podcast Host and Author of Teaching K-5 Science: Encouraging Exploration, Inquiry and Problem Solving www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science (http://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) Podcast Guest: Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC (https://emilykirchermorris.com) Podcast Host- The Neurodiversity Podcast (https://neurodiversitypodcast.com/home) Author of 4 Book Including: Teaching Twice Exceptional Learners in Today's Classrooms and Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted & Supported Find Her Resources at Neurodiversity University https://neurodiversity.university (https://neurodiversity.university) and Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools https://neurodiversityaffirmingschools.com (https://neurodiversityaffirmingschools.com) keywords STEM education, neurodiversity, inclusive teaching, multilingual learners, twice exceptional, Universal Design for Learning, professional development, education podcast, teaching strategies, student support summary In this episode of Puentes and Possibilities, Coral Zayas discusses the importance of inclusive education with Emily Kircher-Morris, focusing on strategies to support neurodivergent and multilingual learners. They explore the concept of 'twice exceptional' students and the need for neurodiverse affirming spaces in schools. Emily shares her journey in education and counseling, emphasizing the significance of community support and collaboration between educators and families to create effective learning environments for all students. takeaways The podcast aims to close the STEM workforce gap. Chapter three focuses on strategies for all learners. 15% of students qualify for special education services. Emily's background includes personal experiences with ADHD. Neurodivergent learners often go unrecognized in schools. Small changes in teaching can benefit all students. Collaboration between families and schools is essential. Twice exceptional students require unique support. Community resources are vital for educators and families. Titles Empowering All Learners in STEM Education Navigating Neurodiversity in the Classroom sound bites "All means all in education." "Small changes can make a big difference." "We need to advocate for all students." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Book 01:30 Supporting All Learners in Science 03:44 Emily's Background and Journey 08:40 Creating Neurodiverse Affirming Spaces 11:55 School-Family Partnerships 16:01 Identifying Twice Exceptional Students 21:30 Community Support and Resources

8. 

   2 Mar 2026

   Episode 3 Part 1:All Means All- Strategies to Support Multilingual Learners Students in Science

   Connect With Your Podcast Host: Coral Zayas: www.coralzayas.com (http://www.coralzayas.com) Get To Know Her New Book: Teaching K-5 Science- Encouraging Exploration, Inquiry and Problem Solving (https://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) Connect With Our Guest: Leslie Correa (https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-correa-5118533a2/) keywords STEM education, multilingual learners, neurodiversity, Universal Design for Learning, early childhood education, literacy in science, teaching strategies, classroom management, teacher advice, science education summary In this episode of Puentes and Possibilities, host Coral Zayas discusses strategies for supporting multilingual and neurodiverse learners in science education with guest Leslie Correa, a veteran bilingual educator. They explore the importance of viewing language as an asset, fostering curiosity in young learners, integrating literacy with science, and providing practical advice for teachers feeling overwhelmed by diverse classroom needs. The conversation emphasizes the significance of emotional control, creative teaching methods, and the value of building relationships with students to enhance their learning experience. takeaways The podcast focuses on closing the STEM workforce gap. Chapter three discusses strategies for supporting multilingual and neurodiverse learners. Over 5 million students in the U.S. are multilingual learners. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) supports inclusive teaching practices. Teachers should view language as an asset, not a barrier. Multimodal instruction helps make content accessible for all learners. Curiosity and hands-on experiences are vital in early science education. Oral language development is crucial in early childhood literacy. Teachers should invest time in understanding their students' needs. Emotional control is essential for effective classroom management. Titles Empowering Multilingual Learners in Science Fostering Curiosity in Young Scientists sound bites "All means all in education." "Language is an asset, not a barrier." "Use what you have in the classroom." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Book 01:52 Supporting All Learners in Science 04:13 Guest Introduction: Leslie's Expertise 05:00 Strategies for Multilingual Learners 09:12 Fostering a Love for Science in Young Learners 12:04 Integrating Literacy and Science 14:40 Advice for Overwhelmed Teachers

9. 

   23 Feb 2026

   Episode 2: From Novice to Confident: Setting Up Your Science Classroom for Success

   Connect With Puentes & Possibilities Podcast Host Coral Zayas: www.coralzayas.com (http://www.coralzayas.com) | www.linktr.ee/coralzayas (http://www.linktr.ee/coralzayas) Pre-Order Coral's Book: Teaching K-5 Science: Encouraging Exploration, Inquiry and Problem Solving: https://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science (https://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science) Podcast Guest: Connect With Nuri Jeter: IG: www.instragram.com/nuri_jeter (http://www.instragram.com/nuri_jeter) keywords STEM education, science classroom, teacher wellbeing, classroom management, education strategies, teacher burnout, instructional practices, science teaching, student engagement, professional development summary In this episode of Puentes and Possibilities, host Coral Zayas discusses the importance of setting up science classrooms for success with guest Nuri Jeter. They explore effective classroom management strategies, the significance of routines, and the balance between structure and flexibility in teaching. takeaways The power of community and professional learning networks is essential for educators. Setting up support systems is crucial for student success in science classrooms. Incorporating hands-on learning experiences enhances student engagement. Establishing group roles in labs fosters accountability among students. Effective material management requires thorough preparation and organization. A strong structure in the classroom allows for necessary flexibility during lessons. Entry procedures are vital for maintaining classroom control and focus. Educators must prioritize their own wellbeing to effectively support students. It's important to give oneself grace during challenging times in education. Finding what works for individual educators is key to sustainability in teaching. Titles Building Successful Science Classrooms Transforming Education Through Community sound bites "It's okay to put yourself first sometimes." "Give yourself grace during tough times." "It's not a one size fits all approach." Chapters 00:00 Episode 2 Intro 03:23 Episode 2: Q & A with Nuri Jeter

10. 

    15 Feb 2026

    Welcome to The Wonder Filed World of Teaching Elementary Science

    Keywords STEM education, K-5 science, teaching strategies, educational equity, multilingual learners, neurodiversity, professional development, inquiry-based learning, professional learning communities, Coral Zayas Summary In this episode of Puentes and Possibilities, Coral Zayas introduces her new book, Teaching K-5 Science, and shares her educational journey. She emphasizes the importance of STEM education and the need for equitable teaching practices to support diverse learners. The episode also provides a sneak peek into the book's introduction and Chapter 1, highlighting the interactive features designed to engage educators. Takeaways Coral Zayas is the author of Teaching K-5 Science. The podcast aims to close the STEM workforce gap. STEM careers are the fastest growing and highest paying. Only 31% of eighth graders meet proficiency in science. The book aims to support teachers in changing statistics. Focus on multilingual and neurodivergent students is essential. Interactive features in the book enhance learning. The book follows a choose your own adventure format. Coral's journey includes diverse teaching experiences. Community and professional learning networks are vital for growth. Titles Bridging the STEM Gap in Education Coral Zayas: A Journey Through Education sound bites "Join me for sneak peeks into each chapter." "The goal of this book is to help teachers." "A choose your own adventure approach." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Puentes and Possibilities 01:18 Coral's Educational Journey 03:51 Overview of Teaching K-5 Science 06:06 Chapter 1 Insights and Teaching Strategies Pre-Order Teaching K-5 Science: https://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science (https://www.coralzayas.com/teachingk5science)

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