APSRC Science and Math Specialist See Successful First Professional Learning Days
This summer, Arkansas Public School Resource Center introduced two dynamic additions to our instructional team—Justin Warner, our math specialist, and Sherry Washington, our science specialist. Both educators bring deep expertise and a passion for empowering teachers, and they’ve already made a powerful impact with their first official professional learning days.
Justin Warner: From Points to Proof
On Wednesday, October 1, Justin Warner led a transformative session titled “From Points to Proof: A Complete Journey in Geometry Instruction.” Designed for junior high and high school geometry educators, the event explored transformations inside the geometry curriculum—from the ALDs to the foundational concepts and teaching strategies.
With 33 educators in attendance, the session featured hands-on activities, collaborative problem-solving, and discussions around best practices for building geometric reasoning. Justin’s approach emphasized conceptual clarity, visual modeling, and the importance of connecting geometry to real-world contexts. Teachers left with fresh strategies, renewed confidence, and a toolkit of resources to elevate their classrooms.
Justin Warner joined APSRC in July 2025 as a Math Specialist. Prior to this role, he served as a high school math teacher for 18 years with the last 13 years at Conway High School. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Arkansas State University. His work has focused on developing rigorous math instruction and mentoring educators in data-driven teaching practices.
Sherry Washington: Preparing Students for Success on the Science ATLAS
Just two days later, on October 2, Sherry Washington hosted her first professional learning day: “Preparing Students for Success on the Science Atlas.” This session focused on equipping educators with the tools and strategies needed to guide students through the Science Atlas assessment—a key benchmark in science proficiency.
An impressive 72 educators participated in the session, which blended data analysis, instructional planning, and content review with a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning. Teachers explored how to scaffold complex scientific concepts, integrate cross-cutting themes, and foster critical thinking. Sherry’s energy and clarity made the day both informative and inspiring, setting a high bar for science instruction moving forward.
One particularly meaningful moment came when Brennan Price, one of Sherry’s former students, attended the session as a fellow educator. Now a 7th grade science teacher at eStem, Brennan shared, “Thank you for being a light in my life, and being one of the best representations of what an amazing teacher is.” After the session, he added, “I got the chance to be a 7th grade student again. Ms. Washington, you were PHENOMenal—thank you for pouring into all of us today! Being in a room with over 118 years of teaching experience can be overwhelming in a good way.” His words were a powerful testament to Sherry’s lasting impact as both a teacher and mentor.
Sherry Washington joined APSRC as a Science Specialist in July 2025. She previously taught ESL English at Conway Junior High School and spent eleven years at LISA Academy Charter School as a Middle School Science Teacher and ESOL Coordinator. She also served as STEM and Science Olympiad Coach, Science Fair Coordinator, and Project Lead the Way instructor. Sherry holds a Bachelor of Science in Family & Consumer Science from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
