Bridget Zeuty, Logan Project Lead The Way (PLTW) teacher

Bridget Zeuty was born and raised in Lansing with her parents and two younger sisters. She wanted to be a teacher from the time she was little and spent hours playing and teaching her sisters what she was learning in school. Her father has a degree in computer science so Zeuty always felt comfortable around computers and it’s a big part of how she ended up where she is. She always enjoyed reading, music, and computer classes while growing up. Zeuty sang in choir, played the flute, performed in musicals, ran track, and played basketball while in school.
Zeuty attended Michigan State University where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational technology.
After completing her master’s degree, she took her first teaching position at a public charter school as a technology specialist and taught K-8 technology classes before being hired by Ann Arbor Public Schools. This is her eighth year teaching at Logan and ninth year teaching in Ann Arbor.
Logan Principal Will Wright says Zeuty is dedicated to building enthusiasm and excitement for the sciences.
“Students are fully engaged in solving engineering problems in her class,” he says. “Additionally, Bridget cares deeply about kids. She works to get to know them and find ways to engage them in their learning.” 
Zeuty lives in Oceola Township with her husband Eric, who is also a teacher. In her free time, she enjoys baking, staying active, and spending time with family and friends.


What inspired you to become a PLTW teacher, and how long have you been teaching the
program?

I started working in the district in 2016 as a media specialist, the same year PLTW launched in all the elementary schools. I had never heard of the program but once I learned it included computer science I knew it was where I belonged. Our building technical specialist and PLTW teacher encouraged me to apply that spring when a position opened up. It was a bit risky at the time (not knowing if the position would still exist in three years) but I’m very glad I took the chance. This is my 8th year teaching PLTW.

What’s the most rewarding project or unit you’ve led with your students?
It’s difficult to choose just one but I would have to say 5th grade robotics. I’ve had the privilege of teaching almost all of my 5th-grade students since they were in kindergarten or even Young 5s. It’s so rewarding to observe students use all the skills they’ve learned in PLTW to build and program robots. Their excitement is magnetic!

How do you help students develop problem-solving skills through PLTW’s hands-on
approach?

I strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment with lots of opportunities for collaboration and hands-on learning. I engage my students’ natural sense of wonder while encouraging them to make mistakes and take risks.

What changes have you seen in students’ interest in STEAM since implementing PLTW?
I have seen a significant increase in students’ interest in STEAM since the district implemented PLTW. The engagement, collaboration, and creativity I’ve seen from my students over the years is truly inspiring! I’ve heard students say “PLTW is my favorite” and “I want to be an engineer” more times than I can count.

How do you adapt PLTW lessons for different learning styles and abilities?
One of the things I love most about PLTW is that it uses the APB (Activity, Project, Problem) approach. APB focuses on hands-on activities and real-world problems that help students understand how the knowledge and skills they develop in the classroom can help them navigate problems in real life. I incorporate a mix of direct instruction, cooperative learning, inquiry-based activities, and project-based learning opportunities to help engage students with different learning preferences and strengths. It provides multiple ways for students to engage with the material and demonstrate their learning so that all students can be successful.

What advice would you give to teachers who are just starting with PLTW?

Find people who inspire you, don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and reach out for support when you need it.

How do you incorporate real-world connections into your PLTW lessons?
Each PLTW module has a real-world design problem that mirrors a real-life situation. It’s what hooks student interest and connects the classroom to tangible experiences and issues students encounter in their daily lives. I like to incorporate student-led discussions about their experiences, utilize technology for research and share news segments or video clips to deepen those real-world connections.

If you weren’t teaching PLTW, what other career path might you have pursued?
I love being a PLTW teacher and I wish a program like this would have been around when I was in elementary school. It would have given me the experience and confidence to pursue something like being a roboticist or packaging engineer.

What do you like about working at Logan specifically?
Logan is an incredible place to teach and learn. We have a very welcoming, diverse, and inclusive community. I am surrounded by exceptional colleagues, students and families who inspire me everyday.

Favorite local restaurant:
Ann Arbor has so many great restaurants and one of my favorites is TAQ Taqueria. It’s a great place to sit outside, enjoy the bustle of downtown and enjoy laughs with good friends.

What are you most excited about these days?
Professionally after seven years of teaching on a cart I am very excited to have a PLTW classroom this year. Personally I’m excited to start planning some trips to new places.

How do you spend your summers?
My husband and I joke that summer is a glimpse of what retirement feels like. It’s time to recharge, enjoy the sunshine, travel, catch up on home projects, take long walks and spend time with family and friends.

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