By Staff writer
This month, STEMGuyana proudly recognizes Sianna Smartt, coach of the Paradise Primary Learning Pod, as the Learning Pod Leader of the Month. Under her leadership, the pod has flourished, increasing attendance and delivering consistent, impactful programming for the children of her community.
Learning pods, sponsored by IDBLab, are afterschool programs spread across all ten regions, focusing on core academic subjects alongside technology education. These pods are designed to prepare students for the future while keeping them engaged and in school, and Sianna Smartt has proven to be a driving force behind this mission.
Ms. Smarttโs dedication to the learners at Paradise Primary has not gone unnoticed. Her commitment to maintaining a functional and thriving learning pod has created a space where students are eager to attend and grow. “A teacher who loves learning earns the right and the ability to help others learn,” says Ms. Smartt, quoting educator Ruth Beechick. She added, “At Paradise Primary, our aim is to see the potential in our learners and assist them in reaching that potential. With the help of STEMGuyana, our learners are eager to learn and excited to grow.”
STEMGuyana’s Manager of Operations shared praise for Ms. Smartt, noting her unwavering dedication to the children in her community. “Ms. Smartt has shown remarkable resilience and commitment to the children in her community, successfully expanding her learning pod and drawing in more young participants. Her consistent presence and motivational leadership have not only inspired children from her community to engage but also empowered them to make meaningful contributions to the pod. Through her dedication, she continues to foster a supportive and impactful learning environment.”
The Learning Pods program continues to transform lives across the country, and leaders like Sianna Smartt are at the heart of this transformation, inspiring children and creating brighter futures for their communities.