As a homeschooling mom, I am always seeking opportunities to foster my daughter’s natural love of learning. It is through this lens that I became immediately intrigued by Natural Genius STEM Solutions, especially when I saw their colorful and engaging animated posts in our feed. I am super excited to introduce our Mocha Lifestyle community to Kristie Long, the brilliant mind behind this amazing company.
Tell us about yourself?
I am first, a mother of two beautiful & talented daughters, Jade- 15, and Jayla- 12. I am a distinguished-rated STEM Professional. My classroom instruction experience includes Advanced Placement Chemistry, General & Honors Chemistry, Physical Science, and Agriscience Foundations at the secondary level. I am approaching my 11th year as a teacher in secondary science. My STEM experience has afforded me the opportunity to touch all levels of Pre K- 12 science education. I hold certifications in Pre K- Primary, Chemistry 6-12, and Agriculture 6-12.
My goal as an educator is to provide a 21st century learning environment through technology integration, coherent instruction, and engaging project-based learning experiences. I am a graduate of Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological & Agricultural Systems Engineering (2004) as well as a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership from Stetson University (2018).
Can you tell us about your business?
Through our educational tools, tutoring, and consulting, Natural Genius STEM Solutions cultivates a love for STEM in learners of all ages. Natural Genius STEM Solutions educational tools develop school readiness skills in children ages 2-5. Using screen-free innovation, each suite features interactive and interchangeable learning tools and is customized to meet your little genius’s needs. We offer over a decade of award-winning, distinguished-rated educational, technical and broad-based scientific skills to provide sound educational consulting and learning support. At Natural Genius STEM Solutions, every day is a beautiful day for STEM! We take the hard work out and the genius comes naturally.
How did you get started?
Natural Genius STEM Solutions began as a desire to find science content that appealed to me and reflected the students in my classes. I could never find what I wanted so I started creating it myself. I always asked myself the question, “what can I do to continue to close the gap in learning gains for our students?” I wanted to provide resources for parents and teachers to promote and sustain STEM engagement. African American students often miss such opportunities.
Over time I’ve executed STEM curriculum for others. I’ve hosted STEM themed birthday parties, and created content for others. I ultimately decided to create a platform to make my passion available on a larger scale and introduce the world to Natural Genius STEM Solutions.
When did you decide that it was the right time to start a business and what led to that decision?
During the pandemic the need for Natural Genius STEM Solutions became more evident. There were so many questions about the direction of education as we knew it. I was given the opportunity to create educational tools for a client. God’s timing brought everything together. July 2020 I registered Natural Genius STEM Solutions as an LLC and here we are!
What do you want to ultimately see happen with your business?
I would like Natural Genius STEM Solutions to be the go-to resource for parents, teachers, and students when it comes to STEM education. I aim to extend online & face-to-face engagements via STEMBreaks, training, curriculum materials, educational tools & games, and community outreach as well. This platform will close gaps in STEM exposure and accelerate learning gains in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math.
What advice would you give another woman, specifically a BIPOC woman, looking to turn her passion into a business?
I would first say to believe that you can! Write your vision. Do your research. Analyze your resources and execute your plan. Don’t give up on your dream. You may see others pursuing similar ventures, but don’t let that discourage you. Your gift is your own and God has already placed the tools you need to succeed within you.
Anything else that you wish to share?
I am honored that you chose to feature me on Mocha Lifestyle! This is a priceless opportunity to share my platform with the Mocha Community.
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Support Natural Genius STEM Solutions by visiting their website and following @NaturalGenius_Stem on Instagram and NaturalGeniusSTEM on Facebook.
