QUICK SUMMARY
Neeraj Agnihotri, a science and robotics teacher at Meeker Middle School, received the Washington Education Association Human and Civil Rights Award for Student Involvement on April 4. Recognized for her commitment to creating a culturally responsive learning environment, Agnihotri fosters inclusive STEM opportunities and emphasizes the importance of motivation in her students’ success. Her initiatives, including the Unified Robotics program and plans for a girls' coding club, significantly impact her students and the broader Kent community.
Neeraj Agnihotri, a science and robotics teacher at Meeker Middle School, was honored with the Washington Education Association Human and Civil Rights Award for Student Involvement on April 4. For seven years, she has dedicated herself to creating a culturally responsive learning environment that supports all students. Her innovative approach includes the Unified Robotics program, which pairs neurodiverse students with typically developing peers in Lego robotics competitions. Agnihotri's students also engage in the Michael P. Anderson Aerospace Program, designed to inspire middle schoolers in STEM while celebrating BIPOC contributions to aviation. Furthermore, she is set to establish a coding club for girls at Meeker next year, aiming to boost their interest in STEM careers. Agnihotri emphasizes the importance of applying classroom lessons to real-world situations, motivating her students to succeed. Her commitment resonates deeply, as reflected in her students' heartfelt messages of gratitude. "If the kids can see that an immigrant from India can make a difference in their lives, they can do so many things,” she expressed, underscoring her belief in the transformative power of education.