Kenneth Mims is an American educator and advocate for neurodiverse students, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).[1]

Education

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Mims earned his bachelor's degree in physics from Georgia State University. He went on to receive a master's degree in Secondary Education with a focus on Science from Grand Canyon University. Mims furthered his education by completing additional graduate coursework in Special Education and Educational Leadership.[2][3]

Career

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Mims began his teaching career in public schools, where he focused on integrating STEM education into the curriculum. His early work included developing programs that emphasized hands-on learning and real-world applications of scientific concepts.[4][5]

Mims founded the Science Prep Academy in Phoenix, Arizona, a school specifically designed to support neurodiverse students, particularly those on the autism spectrum.[6][7] The academy focuses on STEM education, providing a tailored learning environment that meets the unique needs of its students. Mims's approach includes individualized instruction, sensory-friendly classrooms, and a curriculum that integrates technology and project-based learning.[8]

Mims was selected as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow, a program that places outstanding educators in federal agencies or congressional offices. During his fellowship, Mims worked with the U.S. Department of Energy, contributing to national STEM education initiatives and policies.[9][10]

Mims is actively involved in advocating for neurodiversity in education. He serves on the leadership board of the Neurodiversity Education Research Center, where he collaborates with other educators and researchers to promote inclusive practices and support for neurodiverse individuals in academic settings.[11][12]

References

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  1. ^ "EINSTEIN Kenneth Mims | U.S. DOE Office of Science (SC)". science.osti.gov. 2020-01-07. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  2. ^ "Kenneth Mims". NERC. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  3. ^ "Kenneth Mims". Science Prep Academy. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  4. ^ "Science Prep Academy in south Phoenix is first STEM school for autistic students". FOX 5 Atlanta. 2017-05-03. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  5. ^ "'Like the Land of Oz': South Phoenix is home to first STEM prep school for kids with autism". Yahoo News. 2022-01-23. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  6. ^ Stories, Local (2020-01-14). "Meet Kenneth Mims of Science Prep Academy in South Mountain". VoyagePhoenix - Phoenix. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  7. ^ "The Arizona Republic Subscription Offers, Specials, and Discounts". subscribe.azcentral.com. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  8. ^ "South Phoenix Science Prep Academy first of its kind for autistic kids". www.azcentral.com. 2022-01-23. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  9. ^ "Some of the nation's most accomplished STEM teachers selected as Albert Einstein Educator Fellows". Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  10. ^ Staff, WRCB (2019-05-16). "Local teacher named Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow". Local3News.com. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  11. ^ "Arizona Community Foundation awards grant to Neurodiversity Education Research Center - Paradise Valley Independent". The Daily Independent at YourValley.net. 2023-06-01. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  12. ^ Costello, Ian (2022-10-27). "How technology creates more inclusive workspaces". STN. Retrieved 2024-07-29.