9th Grade Physical Science Teacher in Miami Gardens, FL
Miami Carol City Senior High
2025-26 Fellow: Ms. Noel currently teaches 9th-grade Physical Science at Miami Carol City Senior High School. With six years of teaching experience, she brings a rich educational background that includes an M.S. in Biology, an M.S. in Chemistry, an M.S. in Higher Education Administration and Leadership, and an MBA in Leadership. Her teaching approach combines inquiry-based learning, hands-on experiments, and culturally responsive strategies to engage and inspire her students. In addition to her classroom work, Ms. Noel serves as the sponsor of the STEAM Club, guiding students through research, competitions, and interdisciplinary projects. She became interested in the Pilot Light Fellowship after learning about it through the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA), recognizing its unique opportunity to connect science education with the cultural, societal, and environmental dimensions of food. Ms. Noel looks forward to integrating meaningful food-based learning into her physical science curriculum, aiming to build strong connections between school and home while fostering critical thinking about health and sustainability among her students.
Favorite Food Education Standard: FES #1 – Food connects us to each other.
The standard that resonates with me most is “Food connects us to each other.” Food has always been a bridge in my life—connecting generations, cultures, and communities. Growing up, shared meals were moments of storytelling, laughter, and cultural exchange. In the classroom, I see how food can spark curiosity, foster inclusivity, and create meaningful connections among students from diverse backgrounds. It provides a common ground where everyone can share experiences, traditions, and perspectives, building empathy and understanding. By using food as an educational tool, I can help students see themselves as part of a larger community—one where their cultural heritage is valued and celebrated. Through these connections, students not only learn about nutrition and sustainability but also about respect, collaboration, and global citizenship, preparing them to make thoughtful contributions to the world around them.
A Favorite Food Memory or Recipe:
One of my favorite food memories is making Suprême aux Fruits with my family. This chilled dessert, made from fruit cocktail, crushed biscuits, fresh cream, butter, and sugar, was a staple at family gatherings. I remember overseeing my relatives mix the butter into a smooth cream, fold in the crushed biscuits, then add the sweet, colorful fruits. The hours of anticipation while it chilled in the freezer made the first bite even more special. It was not just a recipe—it was a moment of connection, storytelling, and laughter in the kitchen. This experience taught me that food is more than nourishment; it is a way to preserve traditions, share cultures, and build relationships. I aim to bring the same sense of connection and joy into my classroom through the Pilot Light Fellowship, inspiring students to discover the deeper meaning behind what is on their plate.
What I’m Most Excited About as a New Fellow:
I am most excited about integrating innovative food education lessons into my science curriculum to make learning more engaging and culturally relevant. This fellowship provides an opportunity to collaborate with passionate educators, exchange ideas, and develop strategies that connect food, health, culture, and sustainability. I look forward to empowering my students to make informed food choices while deepening their understanding of the world around them.
