Joshua Yoakam
University of Saint Mary- Overland Park Campus
KS

I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Elementary Education and aspire to be a kindergarten teacher upon graduation. Prior to beginning the program I was a stay at home Dad for a number of years. When my son started kindergarten I was hired as an Elementary Aide for Kindergarten and discovered how I wanted to make this world a better place. Before my wife and I had kids I was an Epidemiologist with the Iowa Department of Public Health. I have a Master of Public Health Degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and an undergraduate degree in Biology. I am enthralled with the possibilities of vertical and horizontal integration of curriculum in the elementary setting to make learning experiences a connected and cohesive product. I believe cross curricular planning in this manner has the possibility to improve student capabilities and reduce disparities.