ASU Preparatory Academy Polytechnic STEM Elementary is thrilled to announce the launch of the Transformational Teacher Leader (TTL) program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower educators and elevate teaching practices across our campus.
This program aligns with ASU Prep’s mission and core values, which emphasize leadership through innovation, data-driven decisions, and fostering a collaborative school environment.
What is a Transformational Teacher Leader?
In this exciting role, Transformational Teacher Leaders (TTLs) will continue to inspire in the classroom while also stepping into leadership positions, allowing them to remain passionate teachers and evolve as instructional leaders. This dual role provides our exemplary educators with the opportunity to advance their careers without leaving the classroom—a perfect blend for those who seek additional responsibilities and the chance to make a broader impact.
Introducing our ASU Prep Polytechnic STEM Elementary Transformational Teacher Leaders
Melissa King
With 15 years of teaching experience in California and Arizona, Ms. King is a seasoned STEM educator who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Master’s in Teaching and Curriculum from the University of San Francisco. At ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary, she has played a pivotal role in implementing the “What I Need” (WIN) Math program for fourth graders, which customizes learning experiences based on pre-testing.
As a TTL, King aims to successfully implement collaborative Professional Learning Community (PLC) meetings within the 5th and 6th grade teams. She is enthusiastic about learning and leading ASU Prep Poly to new heights in innovative teaching.
Melina Whitehead
An experienced bilingual educator with a degree from Brigham Young University, Ms. Whitehead believes in the transformative power of education—a belief that resonates deeply with her. Her educational philosophy is driven by the idea that educators are catalysts for change within their classrooms.
Known for her initiative and strategic insights, Whitehead is eager to contribute to ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary’s success as one of the inaugural TTLs and looks forward to impacting the future of education through this role.
Emily Cohen
Ms. Cohen brings 24 years of teaching experience to the table, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on English as a Second Language, both from Arizona State University. As a school-wide mentor teacher and with two years of instructional coaching under her belt, she is excited to embrace her role as a TTL.
Cohen is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and teamwork, aiming to make a positive impact on her students, colleagues, and the broader community.
Erica Smeltzer
A passionate educator and trainer, Ms. Smeltzer holds an undergraduate degree from California Lutheran and a Master’s from Northern Arizona University. Her enthusiasm for joining the ASU Prep team is palpable.
Smeltzer believes that change equates to growth, and she is excited about the new opportunities this program presents. With a philosophy that encourages trying new things and continuous improvement, she looks forward to co-teaching and collaborating to enhance her teaching methodologies.
A transformative impact on our school community
The TTL program at ASU Prep Poly STEM is more than just a leadership initiative—it’s a commitment to the continuous evolution of educational excellence. ASU Prep is proud to support these remarkable educators as they embark on this journey, and we are excited to witness the transformative impact they will have on our school community.
