Katie Gazda is a passionate educator and former high school science teacher who dedicated 15 years to developing STEM programs and supporting students in their post-secondary and career pathways. Though she left the classroom due to the increasing demands and politics of the profession, she remains deeply committed to education and continues to work in support roles at ASU's Ed+ program.

• "The final decision to leave teaching was the demands of the profession and the politics that kept me from doing what was best for my students."

• "What I've seen over the course of 15 years is the demands for teachers are draining... It's like the healthcare system, there's a toll it takes on the employee."

• "AI will never replace teachers... We are social beings, and that connection is always going to be needed."

• "Teachers are mentors who always support and provide advice out of love for the individual, which then grows a greater love and support in society."

• "I have never left the classroom mentally... I'll always be working with education in some capacity."