Pamela Joslyn, a STEM educator at Muscatine Community School District, has been named this year’s recipient of the Southeast Iowa STEM Region 2026 Iowa STEM Teacher Award, presented by Google and the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education. Joslyn was presented with her award alongside winners from the other five regions of Iowa at STEM Day at the Capitol, on February 18. 

A parent who nominated Joslyn described her as an innovative STEM educator who role models lifelong learning for her students and consistently advocates for student opportunities. This includes applying for and receiving numerous grants to enhance her students’ STEM experiences. 

Joslyn’s professional learning and STEM leadership is extensive, including her work as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow and a 2019 Fulbright Distinguished Teacher to Finland. These experiences enable her to design authentic, rigorous STEM programs, such as Reinvent Muscatine, which prepares students for future careers while addressing real community challenges through project-based learning.

Joslyn collaborates with STEM stakeholders to enrich student learning by providing out-of-classroom experiences that transform student engagement, build confidence, and develop cultural awareness. Beyond creating dynamic learning environments in the classroom, she is dedicated to advancing the field of STEM serving as a DoD STEM Ambassador representing the Office of Naval Research.

Now in its 12th year, the Iowa STEM Teacher Award is given annually to one full-time, licensed PK-12 teacher from each of the six STEM regions in Iowa. Each honoree is recognized for their dedication to fostering enthusiasm and igniting a passion for STEM that extends beyond the walls of the classroom, effectively equipping students for high-demand careers in the future.

As a recipient of the 2026 Iowa STEM Teacher Award, Joslyn will receive $1,500 to use for her classroom and $1,500 for personal use.