Press release

Keiko Hiranaka, a 2008 graduate of Aviation High School in Des Moines, has been selected for a fellowship through the Knowles Science Teaching Foundation.

Keiko will graduate this spring with a joint degree in mathematics and computer science from Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California, one of the premiere science, math, and engineering colleges in the nation. She plans to become a high school mathematics teacher.

“Harvey Mudd College is providing me with a solid background [in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) pathways], which will allow me to show my students how they can apply mathematics within other subjects,” says Keiko.

AHS Principal/CEO Reba Gilman hopes Keiko will one day return to teach in Highline.

“Imagine the gift she will be to her future students, having mastered the content she will be teaching and being able to help students connect their learning to workplace applications,” says Gilman. “Keiko is going to be precisely the type of STEM teacher that is needed to inspire and prepare students for STEM education and careers.”

Keiko will start her Philadelphia-based fellowship next fall.

The Knowles Science Teaching Foundation (KSTF) cultivates and supports exemplary science and mathematics high school teachers and develops the next generation of leaders in education. “KSTF integrates the best of current thinking and research in math and science education to provide an exceptional level of support to the most accomplished individuals entering the teaching profession,” according to C. Harry Knowles, KSTF Founder and President.