Kayla Hill

Making Science Stick

Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technology

Clinton, MS

Born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Kayla is a proud graduate of Jackson State University, earning her degree in 2018. That same year, she joined Teach For America, where her journey came full circle: she was placed at the elementary school she once attended. Even more full-circle, she now teaches 5th-grade science in the very classroom once led by her former science teacher.

Kayla is passionate about sparking the minds of young scientists. Many of her students enter her classroom unsure or uninterested in science, but her hands-on, high-energy teaching style inspires curiosity and confidence. Her presence matters — she looks like her students, shares their background, and grew up in the same school district. Her story shows that a student’s circumstances can be a source of strength, not limitation.

Fellowship Project: Making Science Stick

As a Graduate Fellow, Kayla focused on expanding hands-on science experiences for her 5th-grade students. She designed and led engaging labs, interactive lessons, and field investigations aimed at transforming students' fear or disinterest in science into curiosity and confidence. Her goal was to help students see themselves in the field of science and imagine futures in STEM — and her classroom culture reflected that belief every day.