Heather Vanmouwerik

Background

About Heather Vanmouwerik

As a dedicated educator with a passion for civic engagement and student empowerment, I have had the privilege of teaching AP U.S. Government, re-designing a senior capstone course, and developing a project-based DC History class. My approach to teaching blends academic rigor with real-world relevance, equipping students with the skills they need to be critical thinkers, informed citizens, and successful in the modern world. In my current role, I have focused on building data-informed curricula that prioritize student feedback and reflection, leading to a remarkable 95% graduation rate in my senior expedition classes—an improvement that underscores my commitment to student success. As a member of the Instructional Learning Team, I work closely with colleagues to drive academic excellence and create a culture of continuous improvement within my school. I consider my work as a teacher to be rooted in activism: advocating for the skills and critical thinking necessary to navigate and challenge government structures. Equity is at the heart of everything I do, and I am especially dedicated to supporting first-generation students, women, and girls in their academic journeys. My goal is not just to prepare students for college but to inspire them to believe in their potential and engage meaningfully in the world around them. As I transition into the field of education policy, I am focused on developing a deeper understanding of policy analysis and consulting. I am currently pursuing a graduate certification in education policy, with plans to pursue a Ph.D. in the field in the near future. I am particularly interested in creating policies that support educational equity, especially for underserved communities, and in leveraging my classroom experience to advocate for systemic change. Beyond the classroom, I am actively involved in my community. I serve as the Treasurer and a board member for the Greenway Learning Center and have volunteered for the Trenton Bike Exchange, where I also served as the store manager and board member. I recently led Get-Out-The-Vote (GOTV) efforts at my school, reinforcing my belief in the power of civic participation. I am always eager to connect with others who are passionate about education reform, policy, and equity, and I look forward to collaborating with professionals who share these values as I continue to grow in my career.