Hello! My name is Amber Yates. I am currently in my seventh year of teaching, having spent five wonderful years teaching kindergarten in Thompson Falls before joining the team in Harrison, Montana. I hold a Master’s degree in education and serve as both a classroom teacher and MTSS Coordinator, where I support school-wide systems focused on student growth, intervention, and success.

As an educator, I believe in creating a classroom where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive. I specialize in designing hands-on, real-world learning experiences that spark engagement and build confidence particularly through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). I am passionate about helping students see themselves as capable problem solvers and lifelong learners.

I co-authored research with Megan Wickstrom in Exploring Mathematical Modeling with Young Learners, which explores how early learners view themselves as mathematicians and how authentic STEM tasks can reshape their mindset. Through both my classroom practice and leadership in MTSS, I am committed to creating meaningful, data-informed experiences that meet students where they are and help them grow.

I look forward to sharing practical, engaging strategies that bring STEM and student-centered learning to life in the classroom.