Natasha is the Education Specialist and helps manage MoPOP's Outreach Programs, LIVE at MoPOP, Teacher Professional Development, Teacher Advisory Board, and Sensory-Friendly Programs.
Teacher Feature: Kenneth Maldonado
Kenneth Maldonado is a member of the Museum of Pop Culture’s Teacher Advisory Board (TAB), which helps MoPOP develop programs that meet the complex needs of modern classrooms. TAB members test new programming, receive free exclusive workshops, and influence the museum’s curriculum. Let's get to know Kenneth!
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you teach!
Kenneth: I’m originally from Los Angeles, Calif. and I moved to Seattle in 2011 to start teaching. Before I came to Seattle I worked as a community organizer and a housing case manager at a nonprofit in San Jose. I currently teach 4th, 5th, and 6th grade math at an elementary school in Seattle Public Schools.
What’s your pop culture passion?
Kenneth: I have so many pop culture passions. Most recently, I’ve been reading Something is Killing the Children by James Tynion IV and Miquel Muerto. It’s one of the best comics I’ve read in a long time!
Why did you apply to be a part of MoPOP's Teacher Advisory Board?
Kenneth: I applied to be part of the Teacher Advisory Board because I love MoPOP and I love teaching! It was a perfect connection. I also loved the idea of giving MoPOP ideas on how to better their programs, but also learn from other educators and MoPOP. I am constantly trying to better my practice and this seemed like a perfect opportunity to do that.
How does MoPOP connect to your classroom content?
Kenneth: Being “in the know” of pop culture has allowed me to better connect with my students in ways that other teachers might not. I also like to make math word problems and questions that reference pop culture. There is also a lot of math in music. 😊
What is your favorite memory at MoPOP?
Kenneth: My favorite memory at MoPOP is quite a recent one. MoPOP’s education specialist Natasha Ransom and the education team helped me propose to my girlfriend in Sky Church. We created a fake teacher event with fake tickets and completely surprised my girlfriend. It was awesome! And she said yes! Thanks, MoPOP!
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