Sycamore Educator Selected for Teacher Innovator Institute at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum

Sycamore Middle School and Sycamore High School teacher Annette Keca has been selected to participate in the prestigious Teacher Innovator Institute (TII) at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. Keca will join a cohort of 80 educators from across the country for the immersive two-week program in summer 2025, designed to help middle-level educators bring museum-based, interdisciplinary learning experiences into their classrooms.

The Teacher Innovator Institute connects formal and informal learning through STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and math—by offering hands-on activities, behind-the-scenes museum access, and collaborative learning opportunities with Smithsonian educators and content experts. Over the course of two summers, participants engage in professional development, explore best practices in authentic learning, and complete an individualized learning plan designed to bring innovation and creativity to the classroom.

Keca, who teaches business and computer science, sees this opportunity as a meaningful step in her professional journey.

“I’m always looking for ways to give my students real-world, hands-on experiences—especially through technology, creativity, and critical thinking,” she said. “The Smithsonian’s focus on interdisciplinary and inclusive learning aligns perfectly with how I strive to teach. I want my students to see connections, be curious, and feel like they belong in creative and tech spaces.”

Now in her 17th year as an educator, she plans to use this experience to deepen her understanding of interdisciplinary teaching and to bring new ideas to both her classroom and extracurricular programs. 

“This work supports my goal of transforming our computer science classroom into a space that not only focuses on coding, but also explores the history and societal impact of technology,” Keca added. “I want students to leave with both the technical skills and the mindset to tackle future challenges with creativity, confidence, and critical thinking.”

To learn more about the Teacher Innovator Institute, visit airandspace.si.edu/teacher-innovator-institute.