STEAM STARZ TEAM

Janice Beard, M.Ed., owner and founder of STEAM STARZ, wife, and mom to Ellie and Beckham. With an education master's degree in Teacher Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction, Janice brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom, along with a deep passion and understanding for integrating STEAM principles into teaching practice. 

With previous experience being an instructional STEM coach, and a master preschool teacher at the Science Center of Iowa,

Janice's teaching philosophy revolves around creating an engaging and hands-on learning environment where students can explore and excel in STEAM disciplines. She encourages students to make connections and apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Janice designs dynamic lessons that foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, creativity, and collaboration. She ensures that students are actively involved in the learning process, promoting curiosity, inquiry, and a growth mindset.
 

Janice is a dedicated and inspiring STEAM teacher who strives to cultivate a passion for learning, exploration, and innovation in students. 

Damian Beard, CFP, M.B.A., husband to Janice and dad to Ellie and Beckham and author of "Auggie the Auctioneer" series. Damian takes on the role as Director of Operations with STEAM STARZ. 

He is recognized as a business entrepreneur, bringing a wealth of innovative ideas to the table. His entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in his strategic approach to managing business operations and driving growth for STEAM STARZ.   

His passion for STEAM education extends beyond the classroom, as he actively contributes to the logistics of STEAM STARZ, ensuring that all aspects of the organization run smoothly.

With a diverse skill set that spans operations, education, finance, business management and entrepreneurship, Damian Beard is a valuable asset to the STEAM STARZ team. 

 Chandra Keairnes, Ed. D is a wife, mom, and educator.  She spent 18 years teaching middle school in the largest public school district in the state of Iowa.  While there, she taught 7th and 8th grade social studies and math.  She also took advantage of many leadership opportunities and led programs throughout her school and district.  

Throughout her teaching career, Chandra also taught high school equivalency classes for non-traditional students in the evenings.  Her passion in education includes engaging all students and meeting the needs of all students to the best of her abilities. 

In 2022 Chandra graduated with her Doctor of Education from Alverno College where she completed her dissertation on teachers’ perceptions on grading practices.  Chandra started her terminal degree due to her love of learning and to live by example for her students and her own children- to embody the phrase of being a “lifelong learner.”  While finishing her degree she decided to fully transition to higher education and became an assistant professor at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa.  She lives in central Iowa with her husband Erik and their two children: Elliott and George.

Jesse graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in elementary education—Go Cyclones! 

After college, she began her teaching career as a kindergarten teacher in the Des Moines Public School District, then moved to Illinois to continue my work in education. 

Now, she's back in Des Moines as an academic interventionist! I’m passionate about helping kids unleash their creativity and intelligence through hands-on learning. 

When I’m not teaching, you can find me going on walks, sewing, or traveling to new places! 

 Bailie Kroll graduated from Waukee Northwest High school in 2022 before heading to the University of Iowa. She is currently studying Elementary Education and will begin student teaching in the Fall of 2025. 

Throughout her time in college, Bailie has had several opportunities to develop lesson plans that draw on the assets of individuals, work with K-5 students within a variety of subjects, and foster positive learning environments for all students. 

When she is not in the classroom, Bailie enjoys reading, going on walks, and playing Pickleball!

Bailie recently earned her STEAM certification through the Baker Teacher Leadership Center at the University of Iowa and is looking forward to learning alongside the STEAM Starz team!