“Do not train children to learning by force and harshness, but direct them to it by what amuses their minds,
so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.”
- Plato
Meet Amy
My name is Amy Markham, and I’m thrilled you’re here!
With over 20 years of experience in education, I have dedicated my career to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on exploration in students from Transitional Kindergarten through 9th grade. My teaching journey has taken me across three states: six years in Texas, seven years in Arkansas, and six years in sunny California.
Currently, I serve as a STEAM Studio Resource Teacher for grades TK-8th, where I guide students and teachers through dynamic, design-thinking-driven lessons that blend Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Before this role, I was a Gifted and Talented teacher and Coordinator, crafting enrichment opportunities and igniting a love for learning in some of our brightest young minds.
​In addition to my work in K-8 education, I am an adjunct professor at Point Loma Nazarene University in the School of Education, where I have the honor of mentoring future educators. Supporting the next generation of teachers is a privilege and a responsibility I hold dear, as I strive to share my passion for STEAM education and innovative teaching practices with those entering the profession.
I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and a Master's Degree in Education with an emphasis in Gifted, Talented, and Creative. This foundation has allowed me to develop innovative, inclusive teaching strategies that celebrate every learner’s unique strengths and potential.
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At STEAM Squad HQ, my mission is simple: to inspire young learners and educators to think boldly and embrace innovation. I am passionate about stepping beyond the confines of traditional curriculum to create engaging, hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning to the real world. Whether it's engineering challenges, coding adventures, or STEAM-based storytelling, my goal is to empower students to ask questions, solve problems, and dream big.
I’ve had the privilege of leading professional development sessions, mentoring teachers, and helping schools integrate STEAM practices into their classrooms. Watching both students and educators discover the transformative power of STEAM learning is one of the greatest joys of my career.
Outside of the classroom, I’m the proud mom of teenagers, and my adventures often involve cheering on my robotics team as they tackle real-world challenges. When I’m not immersed in the world of education, I enjoy hiking, exploring new technologies, and soaking in California sunsets with my family.
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If you're interested in collaborating, booking a workshop, or exploring how STEAM Squad HQ can support your teaching journey, let’s connect! Email me at STEAMsquadHQ@gmail.com for rates and availability.
Meet Sierra
Introducing Sierra Gritts, the organizational powerhouse behind Powered by STEAM Squad as our Administrative Director! With a keen eye for detail and a passion for education, Sierra ensures that everything runs smoothly—checking every box and closing every circle to bring high-quality STEAM learning to classrooms.
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With a degree in Industrial-Organizational Business Psychology, Sierra’s path to education was shaped by a two-year internship under Amy Markham, where she worked hands-on in TK-8th grade classrooms. This experience completely redefined her career goals, inspiring her to transition from administrative services to education. Motivated by the power of hands-on, inquiry-based learning, she went back to school to earn her Master’s in Education and is now a dedicated STEAM teacher, serving TK-6th grade students.
​Now, Sierra combines her expertise in business psychology and education, ensuring that STEAM learning is both engaging for students and effectively structured for long-term success. She uses her organizational skills and understanding of how people learn and work best to create efficient, impactful, and inspiring classroom experiences.
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Every day, Sierra brings Powered by STEAM Squad’s curriculum to life in her classroom, engaging students in real-world problem-solving, creativity, and innovation. With her unmatched ability to merge structure with inspiration, she ensures every lesson is meaningful, impactful, and engaging.
Meet Kaitlyn
Introducing Kaitlyn Gritts, the creative force behind Powered by STEAM Squad as our Media Director! With a diverse background in film, photography, and education, Kaitlyn brings a unique blend of storytelling and hands-on learning to our mission.
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Before joining the STEAM Squad team, Kaitlyn worked as a makeup artist on movie sets, helping bring cinematic visions to life. Her passion for capturing moments led her to a successful career as a wedding photographer, where she honed her skills in visual storytelling. Now, as a 3rd grade teacher, Kaitlyn actively integrates STEAM concepts into her classroom, using the resources and materials created by Powered by STEAM Squad to engage and inspire her students.​
With her eye for detail and love for education, Kaitlyn ensures that every piece of content created by Powered by STEAM Squad is both visually stunning and deeply impactful. Whether behind the camera or in the classroom, she is dedicated to making STEAM learning accessible, exciting, and unforgettable for young minds everywhere.
Meet Remmy
Introducing Remmy Thomas, the technical expert behind Powered by STEAM Squad, ensuring our curriculum is accurate, relevant, and deeply connected to the real-world workforce. With a degree in mechanical engineering and an active career as a aerospace engineer, Remmy brings firsthand industry experience to the STEAM Squad team.
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Her engineering expertise allows her to vet each unit, ensuring that the lessons reflect cutting-edge technology, real-world problem-solving, and workforce readiness. From aerospace principles to hands-on mechanics, she bridges the gap between classroom learning and professional application, helping students see how STEAM skills translate into thriving careers.
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Passionate about empowering the next generation of innovators, Remmy’s insights help shape lessons that are not only engaging but also technically sound and career-focused. She is committed to bringing authenticity and industry relevance into every aspect of Powered by STEAM Squad’s curriculum.
Meet Lily
Some people think in numbers, others in words—Lilly Graton thinks in color, design, and storytelling. A former robotics student and three-year engineering student under Amy Markham’s mentorship, Lilly has transformed her STEAM background into a powerful force for creativity and marketing.
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Her artistic talents are unmatched, bringing a bold and imaginative energy to Powered by STEAM Squad. Whether she’s crafting digital content, designing graphics, or building engaging social media campaigns, Lilly makes STEAM education exciting, accessible, and visually captivating.
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With a natural gift for marketing and an eye for design, Lilly bridges the gap between innovation and aesthetics, ensuring that STEAM learning doesn’t just inform—it inspires. She’s proof that engineering and creativity go hand in hand, and she’s here to show the world just how brilliantly STEAM and storytelling collide.
Meet Ellie
Introducing Ellie Markham, a rising STEAM leader and intern at Powered by STEAM Squad! Growing up learning from an expert, Ellie has been immersed in STEAM education her entire life—not only was her mom, Amy Markham, her engineering elective teacher, but together, they have co-led STEAM Camps during school breaks, ensuring that every child in the community has access to hands-on, innovative learning experiences.
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Ellie’s passion for teaching young learners has only grown over the years. She now leads kindergarten after-school clubs, sparking curiosity and creativity in the youngest minds, all with her mom’s support. Her ability to engage and inspire little learners makes her a natural educator in the making.
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In her current internship with Powered by STEAM Squad, Ellie is putting her talents to work in social media and video editing, helping to showcase the magic of STEAM learning through digital storytelling. With a strong creative eye and a passion for making learning exciting, Ellie is an integral part of the team, bringing fresh perspectives and innovation to everything she touches.
