Sandy Roberts is the Education Program Manager at Science Friday, where she creates learning resources, content, and experiences to advance STEM equity in all learning environments.
Sandy earned her degree in chemical biology from Stevens Institute of Technology with a minor in literature and certificates in chemical engineering and computer science. After working in both pharmaceutical research and publishing, she transitioned her career to education when she started a family.
Since then, Sandy has taught formally as a middle school STEM teacher with certifications in science and math and informally at local libraries, homeschool co-ops, museums, and camps. She’s also offered professional development to educators through various venues, including Rutgers University, where she earned a graduate certificate in Maker Education. Sandy completed her M.A. in Community Based Education and Leadership with a focus on STEM education at Stevenson University.
Sandy has participated in and presented at Maker Faires along the East Coast since 2012 where she has won numerous awards for her educational activities. Channeling the Maker Movement into education, she has overseen the development of three makerspaces, written The Big Book of Maker Camp Projects (McGraw-Hill 2019), and served as Maker Camp Coordinator and Community Manager for Make: Magazine. Sandy currently sits on the Executive Board for New Jersey Makers Day.
Sandy has spoken at events such as the Make: Education Forum, the National Science Teachers Association National Conference, the AFT Share My Lesson Virtual Conference, the New Jersey Educational Technology Conference, the Canadian Association of Science Centres Annual Conference, and the STEMM Opportunity Alliance White House Summit on STEMM Equity and Excellence. In 2024, Sandy’s work at Science Friday was recognized as a Falling Walls Science Engagement Winner and presented at the Falling Walls Summit in Berlin.
When not teaching or writing, Sandy can be found tinkering in her home office, exploring the outdoors, or spending time with her family—sometimes all three at once. Lately she’s been playing with origami circuits, relearning micro-python, and trying to perfect a gluten-free sourdough recipe.
Model Chemical Elements And Molecules With Bricks
Build simple atoms and molecule models using plastic construction bricks—like LEGO—as you explore the elements that shaped all life on Earth.
Test Your Taste Receptors With Spicy Treats
Discover the science behind foods that make your tongue tingle. Experiment with spiced beverages that activate your mouth’s TRP receptors.
Experiment With Fluid Physics In Your Kitchen
Experiment with non-Newtonian fluids, like ketchup and Oobleck, to determine how they react to shear stress.
The Science Of Sweaters: Chemistry In Your Closet
What is your favorite sweater made from? Investigate textiles and discover the different characteristics of common materials.
Helpful Or Harmful? How AI Shaped Education In 2023
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the classroom. Students and educators weigh in on the way forward.
How A University Is Adjusting One Year After ChatGPT
An English professor discusses how AI is transforming education, and how students and faculty alike can use it responsibly.
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The Ocean Is A Climate Ally
The ocean has absorbed over 90% of the heat we’ve trapped with greenhouse gasses. It still holds many possible climate solutions.
Tracking Tuna: How Do Behavior And Environment Interact?
Researchers track tuna fish across the ocean. What do they hope to learn and how can you use the same science to make your day better?
Can Your Cat Talk To You? Use Science To Find Out!
What does meow really mean? Investigate how your favorite pet communicates in this fun, family-friendly STEM activity.
What Foods Do Wasps Love? What Foods Do Wasps Hate?
With careful observations while watching wasps, you can discover their favorite foods and use that to make your picnics more pleasant.