Katharine Smushkov
Katharine Smushkov is a dedicated educator with over 24 years of teaching experience, beginning her career in her native Chile, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and General Education in 2001. She furthered her studies with a master’s degree in Family Studies and worked on educational initiatives for low-income children in Santiago, as well as at a preschool for two years. In 2004, Katharine moved to the United States with just a suitcase and $500, determined to pursue her teaching career and embrace new opportunities. She initially taught Spanish in North Carolina for three years before moving to Basalt, Colorado, where she taught kindergarten in a dual immersion program, alternating instruction between English and Spanish.
For the past 15 years, Katharine has been a third-grade teacher at Dual Immersion Academy in Grand Junction, Colorado, where she teaches all subjects in Spanish, including literacy, social studies, and science. Passionate about STEM education, she serves as the school’s STEM coordinator and is currently developing a makerspace to enrich hands-on learning experiences for her students. Katharine’s dedication to fostering curiosity and creativity extends beyond her classroom; she is a Space Foundation International Teacher Liaison and a teacher ambassador for the Smithsonian’s NEST program, connecting students and educators to national STEM initiatives.
Katharine holds an Educational Specialist (EdS) degree in Leadership and Policy Studies, equipping her to guide educational programs and influence policy. Her teaching philosophy centers on perseverance, integrity, and cultivating a love of learning in her students. She treasures the moments when former students recognize her and recall their early experiences in her classroom, a testament to the lasting impact of her work. Katharine continues to inspire children and colleagues alike, combining her expertise in dual immersion education, STEM, and early childhood development with an enduring passion for nurturing young minds.
• Teacher license (Colorado)
• NASA Endeavor STEM Teaching Certificate
• University of Northern Colorado - Ed.S.
• Space Foundation International Teacher Liaison
• Smithsonian NEST Teacher Ambassador
• Rotary Club
• Space Foundation
• Smithsonian
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, self-belief, and a willingness to take risks. Moving from Chile to the U.S. with just a suitcase and $500 taught me the value of trusting myself and embracing new opportunities. I am passionate about education, and working closely with children and their families has been the driving force behind my 24-year career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to take risks and pursue work that I love—work that brings me joy and fulfillment. Following this guidance has helped me embrace opportunities, grow professionally, and stay passionate about my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
For young women entering education, I would emphasize the importance of learning from mentors—they can provide invaluable guidance as you start your career. Taking risks and embracing new opportunities is also crucial; don’t be afraid to try new approaches or step outside your comfort zone. Above all, prioritize accountability. Being responsible and following through on your commitments to your students, their families, and yourself is essential for success and trust in this field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face as a Latina in education is finding opportunities for advancement beyond the classroom. I’m also passionate about expanding STEM education at the elementary level, where resources and funding are limited. I hope to create more opportunities for hands-on learning, especially for Latinas and young women, to inspire the next generation.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and honesty are the values I hold most strongly, both in my work as an educator and in my personal life. They guide how I interact with my students, their families, and my colleagues, and shape the way I approach every responsibility. My family is also central to my life—I treasure spending quality time with them, supporting my daughter at her soccer lessons, and being fully present in her life. Everything I do is rooted in these principles of honesty, integrity, and commitment.