LISA: Ambassador Mandy Frantti

Mandy Frantti

Mandy Frantti has taught since 1993 in Munising, a town in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She teaches Physics, Astronomy, Integrated Science, and a variety of mathematics classes. Frantti graduated with an undergraduate degree from Michigan Technological University in 1993 and an Enhanced Master’s of Science degree in Science and Mathematics Education from Northern Michigan University in 2000. Her thesis research involved investigating effective problem solving in the context of teaching about waves in a high school physics classroom.

Frantti has a special interest in science and mathematics curriculum reform and serves on numerous committees at a state and local level that focus on this effort. She has also worked on a professional development program for Munising Public Schools, serving elementary teachers to make science education more meaningful and effective. Frantti has been recognized with awards and grants for her work in the classroom and in education in general. In 2001 she received the nation’s highest honor in mathematics and science education when she was awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching by President Bush.

Frantti has many interests such as music, art, photography, and literature, but she has chosen to teach science and mathematics. She hopes to reveal to young people the excitement of the scientific world, especially that of physics and astronomy, and develop the potential in the world’s future problem solvers. Each morning as she starts her day looking out over Lake Superior from the window of her classroom, she anticipates the possibility of making a difference in someone’s life.