Tonya Prentice - President

Member since 2017

Tremont Consolidated School- Science Grades 5-8

I am passionate about providing hands-on, project-based learning experiences that connect my students with the natural world, while partnering with community organizations.  I'm committed to fostering a love of science, empowering students to think critically about the world around them, helping them become soulutionaries who work toward a sustainable future.

2016 PAEMST, 2020 Oxford County Teacher of the Year,  2021 STEM Scholar, National Board and National STEM Certified Teacher

Diana Allen - Treasurer/Past President

Member since 2008

Sanford Middle School - Life & Environmental Science

I'm a middle school science teacher with a passion for teaching through the lens of real world, outdoor learning and giving my students the best science education I can provide. Being a steward of our environment is something I take very seriously and wish to share this mindset with my students. I love all things nature and experiencing all our natural world has to offer.

State finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching, Fund for Teachers Fellow.

Sarah Sparks - Board member

Member since 2015

University of Maine Cooperative Extension

I am excited to expand the opportunities for youth in our communities, supporting them as they engage with STEM and build their identity as scientists. Working with others who share that enthusiasm makes me a better educator - one of many reasons being part of MSTA is so great.

Maria Palopolli - Board member

Member since 2011

Brunswick School District

I've been collecting and raising insects for a long time. The focus of my career has been the promotion and support of science at the elementary level.  Recipient of the PAEMST award in 2009

Dr. Ian Renga - Board member

Member since 2023

University of Southern Maine

Dr. Renga is assistant professor of teacher education at USM. He has over twenty years of professional experience and started as a paraeducator in special education before teaching secondary science, math, and fine art. As a teacher educator, Dr. Renga partners with teachers to answer urgent calls for justice and a cleaner, greener world through responsive and authentic learning experiences. He teaches courses on educational foundations and STEM teaching methods and sponsors the Educators of Tomorrow! Club for undergraduates pursuing education careers. He's an avid naturalist and loves fly fishing.

Katie Coppens - Board member

Member since 2022

Falmouth Middle School

Katie Coppens has been a classroom teacher for 22 years, with a range of experiences, from a 3rd grade self-contained class to high school English and biology in Tanzania. Katie's K-8, 6-12 Life Sciences, and 6-12 Social Studies certified; she currently teaches 6th grade science at Falmouth Middle School. Since 2018, she's written a column for the National Science Teaching Association’s Science Scope journal on the topic of integrating science and literacy. She authored numerous science-themed books for children and a teacher's guide for NSTA called Creative Writing in Science: Activities that Inspire. Katie has two science-loving daughters and is married to a high school biology teacher.

Sophia Manning - Board member

Member since 2024

Massabesic Middle School

In addition to teaching 7th grade science at Massabesic Middle School, I also coach middle school soccer, love to cook in my free time, and I am a co-lead educator for the Southern Maine regional Connected Learning Ecosystem (CLE) through the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI).

Halie Goodspeed - Board member

Member since 2024

Freeport High School 

I am a high school STEM educator, passionate about creating more inclusive STEM classrooms. When I am not teaching I love to read, metalsmith, and adventure with my partner and toddler son.