Shannon Seleen
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
I specialize in Gifted and Talented Education for elementary students, focusing on creating hands-on, long-term projects that span across science, math, technology, and the arts. These projects are student-driven and connected to real-world situations, allowing students to explore subjects through inquiry, problem-solving, and creativity. As a gifted and talented teacher, I develop dynamic and customized curricula that start with complex problems or challenges that students need to solve or investigate. I believe in empowering students to take ownership of their learning by encouraging them to be active participants in their educational journey. This approach fosters critical thinking and promotes the development of important problem-solving skills. I place a strong emphasis on fostering a growth mindset, helping students build confidence in their ability to learn and grow through challenges. By focusing on the value of effort and perseverance, I guide students to understand that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, and each one is an opportunity to improve and think more creatively. This mindset empowers them to take risks and apply their knowledge in innovative ways. The projects I lead typically span 4-9 months, providing students with the time and space to engage in deep, meaningful learning. Past projects have included building intricate Rube Goldberg machines, developing and designing a taco truck business complete with pricing strategies, and addressing environmental issues like marine debris. These projects not only allow students to apply their knowledge but also instill a sense of responsibility and creativity as they work toward real-world solutions. Ultimately, my work is about nurturing students' ability to think critically and creatively about the world around them. I aim to inspire them to explore new ideas, develop their own solutions, and build a sense of empowerment and ownership in their learning journey.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
My initial interest in this career was sparked by the science and technology-driven camps and seminars that my parents took me to when I was young. I was absolutely captivated by the hands-on learning and problem-solving experiences, and I loved them so much that my parents sought out more opportunities for me to explore. The technology, robots, and science kits I encountered fueled my curiosity, and I found myself constantly eager to learn more. As I grew older and decided to pursue teaching, I reflected on those early experiences and realized how profoundly they shaped my approach to education. I knew that I wanted to provide my students with the same exciting, immersive opportunities that sparked my own curiosity. I began to incorporate math, science, and technology into every aspect of my teaching. In college, I further refined my methods by learning about multidisciplinary teaching techniques, which helped me understand how to effectively blend different subjects to create an engaging and holistic learning experience. Combining these childhood experiences with my formal education has allowed me to create an environment that is not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply engaging for my students.
Beyond my educational background, my diverse life experiences have also influenced my path as a Gifted and Talented teacher in Guam. During my time as a cast member of Up With People, I had the opportunity to travel and immerse myself in different cultures, which sparked a passion for travel and a deeper understanding of the world around me. Additionally, working in a variety of roles—such as a nanny, waitress, tour guide in a cavern, and scuba diving instructor—has shaped my approach to teaching in valuable ways. Being a nanny taught me how to work with children of all kinds, waitressing helped me develop patience and customer service skills, and my experience as a tour guide deepened my appreciation for natural science and sparked my love for storytelling. When I first moved to Guam, I became SCUBA certified, and my love for the ocean grew even stronger. This newfound passion for marine life led me to explore the world through diving and eventually become a PADI Master Instructor. As I traveled, I became more attuned to the importance of ocean preservation, and I started teaching projects centered around the ocean and its ecosystems. These experiences have enriched my teaching, allowing me to bring real-world connections to the classroom and inspire my students to appreciate and protect the natural world around them. Ultimately, the combination of my childhood curiosity, diverse career experiences, and passion for the environment has all played a role in shaping my journey as an educator. I am grateful for these experiences, as they continue to inform and inspire the way I teach and connect with my students.
Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?
The person who influenced and encouraged me the most was my dad. From a young age, he introduced me to science and technology events, sparking a deep passion for these subjects that would stay with me throughout my life. His unwavering support and encouragement to try new things and explore whatever piqued my curiosity had a profound impact on me. He never limited my interests, always urging me to pursue what fascinated me, and helping me see challenges as opportunities to grow.
Even as I moved into my college years and began my teaching career, my dad continued to be my biggest cheerleader. His belief in my potential was constant, and it gave me the confidence to push past obstacles and aim high. Whether I was navigating academic hurdles or facing new career challenges, his faith in me provided a solid foundation.
Beyond just academic and career support, my dad also fostered a love for adventure and exploration. We shared many memorable travels together, and it was his influence that gave me the strength and courage to move from New York to Guam. The encouragement he provided was not just about pursuing a career but about embracing life’s opportunities with curiosity and an open heart.
His steadfast belief in me shaped not only the educator I am today but also the person I strive to be—one who is always willing to explore, learn, and embrace new challenges.
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
The most fascinating element of my work is witnessing the unique and creative ways each of my students approaches problem-solving. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them bring their individual perspectives to the table, and I never know exactly where a lesson plan will take us when we embark on a project-based learning experience. The beauty of this approach is that the students play an active role in guiding their own learning, and the lessons often take unexpected and exciting turns. For instance, during one project, my students were working on creating Rube Goldberg devices. As they explored the mechanics of their designs, they became curious about the underlying principles of physics, particularly Newton’s Laws of Motion. This led them to ask questions I hadn’t anticipated, and I quickly dove into researching fun, age-appropriate ways to teach physics to 4th graders. It was thrilling to watch them absorb the new information and apply it directly to their projects, refining their devices with their newfound understanding of physics. What I find most amazing is seeing how their minds work—how they tackle challenges with innovative solutions and push the boundaries of what I expect. The unpredictable nature of their creativity means every day in the classroom is exciting, as each student brings something new and surprising to the table. It’s this dynamic, ever-evolving process of discovery that makes my work so incredibly rewarding.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
A few years ago, I came across a flyer about the ship-to-shore interactions with the Ocean Exploration Trust, and I immediately saw it as an incredible opportunity to engage my students in meaningful, real-world learning about the ocean and science. I knew this experience could offer them a unique connection to marine exploration, so I spent time with my students researching the vessel and its missions together. They were thrilled to learn about the research being conducted, and we worked collaboratively to develop thoughtful questions they could ask during the ship-to-shore interaction. When the day of the interaction came, the excitement and engagement from my students were truly inspiring. Their enthusiasm as they connected with the team on the ship was contagious, and I saw firsthand the power of bringing real-world science into the classroom. It was a transformative moment for me as an educator, and it ignited a deep desire to get more involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust. This experience sparked my ambition to become part of the expedition team, so I actively pursued opportunities to be more directly involved with the organization. I wanted to help bring this kind of learning to students all over the world, allowing them to have the same sense of awe and curiosity that my students experienced. Additionally, I sought to equip teachers with the resources and tools to guide similar interactions in their own classrooms, fostering a global network of learning and exploration. Becoming part of the Ocean Exploration Trust team felt like a natural next step, allowing me to expand my impact and share the wonder of the ocean with others.
What other jobs led you to your current career?
My career path has been shaped by a diverse range of teaching roles, each of which has played a key part in leading me to where I am today. I began my journey as an American Sign Language (ASL) teacher in an urban school in Rochester, NY, where I also worked as an adjunct ASL professor. These early experiences in Deaf Education helped me develop a deep understanding of communication, inclusivity, and the importance of tailored learning approaches. After a few years as a Deaf Educator, I made the move to Guam, where I had the opportunity to teach both Deaf Education and Special Education for several years. These roles further broadened my teaching skills and gave me valuable insights into the diverse needs of students. Eventually, I transitioned to teaching 2nd grade, which I thoroughly enjoyed. However, I realized that the traditional classroom structure didn't allow me the time and flexibility to implement the project-based learning experiences I was passionate about. It was at that point that I applied for a position in Gifted and Talented Education, where I could focus on hands-on, student-driven projects that align with my teaching philosophy. This role has allowed me to dive deeper into the kinds of immersive, long-term learning experiences I believe are most effective for fostering curiosity and critical thinking in students.
Along the way, I've had the opportunity to present at professional development sessions and conferences on a wide range of topics, from cultivating a growth mindset to teaching a local farming curriculum that I co-wrote. Each of these experiences has shaped and enriched my approach to education and further solidified my passion for helping students explore and innovate. Throughout my career, I’ve loved teaching students of all ages and backgrounds, from preschoolers to adults. The variety of roles I’ve held has allowed me to continuously grow as an educator, and I’m grateful for each experience that has contributed to shaping my current teaching philosophy and approach.
What are your degrees and certifications?
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Psychology, St. John Fisher College, 2001
Master of Science in Secondary Education (Deaf Education and English), National Technical Institute for the Deaf at Rochester Institute of Technology, 2024
Emergency First Response Instructor, 2009
Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI) Master Instructor, 2009
Guam and New York Elementary Education PreK-5 Certifications
Guam and New York Deaf Education K-12 Certifications
Guam and New York Special Education K-12 Certifications
Guam and New York English 6-12 Certifications
Guam English as a Second Language K-12 Certification
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies are diverse and reflect my passion for exploration, creativity, and learning. One of my greatest loves is scuba diving, particularly when I have the chance to encounter new species I’ve never seen before. I’m known to travel specifically for diving trips to seek out particular species, blending my love for the ocean with the thrill of discovery. I also enjoy leading dive groups during vacations, which allows me to share my passion for both scuba and travel with others. Cooking is another major passion of mine—I'm truly a foodie at heart. I love experimenting with new ingredients and recipes, exploring flavors from around the world, and embracing the art of crafting delicious meals. Creativity is also central to my hobbies, and I enjoy crafting in various forms. I use die cutting tools, laser cutters, engravers, and 3D printers to bring my ideas to life. It’s a wonderful way for me to combine hands-on creativity with technology, and I love finding new ways to create and innovate. Traveling is another passion I hold dearly. I’ve had the opportunity to visit all U.S. states and territories, except for Washington, Oregon, and American Samoa, and I’ve explored 35 countries. My favorite aspect of travel is experiencing new cultures—especially through food, which allows me to truly immerse myself in the local way of life. At home, I find joy in spending time with my two dogs, Donne’ and Drogo, who are always by my side and ready for cuddles. They bring a sense of calm and companionship to my life. I’m also deeply involved in environmental studies and conservation efforts. I’m always eager to learn more about the natural world and contribute to protecting it. Whether it's through my diving, or my active involvement in environmental organizations, I strive to make a positive impact and inspire others to care for the planet.
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
My advice for anyone aspiring to have a career like mine is to remain open to evolution and embrace new experiences. Education is an ever-changing field, with teaching methods, technologies, and tools constantly emerging. As a teacher, it's crucial to be open to learning and adapting, as the more you learn, the more you can pass on to your students. Embrace change, as it will allow you to stay relevant and inspire curiosity in your students. It’s equally important to listen to your students. Rather than just giving them the answers, guide them in discovering solutions for themselves. Encouraging independent thinking and critical problem-solving fosters a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the subject matter. Be flexible in your approach and willing to adjust your lesson plans based on their interests and evolving needs.
Don’t be afraid to learn from both experienced and newer educators. Everyone brings something valuable to the table, whether it’s tried-and-true strategies or fresh, innovative ideas. Seek out professional development opportunities and attend conferences to continuously grow your teaching toolbox. Networking with others in the field can also offer new perspectives and inspiration.
Finally, develop the mindset of saying yes to new opportunities as they arise. This willingness to take risks and step outside your comfort zone has been pivotal to my personal and professional growth. By embracing new challenges, you’ll not only expand your skills but also uncover exciting paths that can shape your career in ways you may never expect. This mindset of openness, flexibility, and continual learning is key to success in this field.
