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Founder, Owner, & Lead Facilitator, STEAM Inspires

Forensic Science

Applied Physics

Earth & Space Science

With over four decades of experience as a dynamic educator, innovator, and creative leader, John Bertrand brings a rare blend of science, music, and mentorship to everything he does. As the founder and owner of STEAM Inspires, John’s mission is to empower the next generation of critical thinkers and problem-solvers through immersive, hands-on STEM experiences designed to ignite curiosity and build confidence.

John has worked in both the private and public sectors and has spent the last 21 years teaching high school science, covering courses such as Regents Earth Science, Honors Earth Science, Applied Physics, Current Issues & Ethics in Science, and Syracuse University’s SUPA Forensic Science and Presentational Speaking. His teaching style blends academic rigor with real-world relevance, making science engaging and accessible for all learners.

John is also a lifelong percussionist with over 40 years of experience teaching drums and percussion. He has instructed numerous percussion ensembles and is a Certified Drum Circle Facilitator, endorsed by REMO Drum Company. His love for rhythm and group connection led him to create Lead With Rhythm, where he has facilitated more than 100 interactive drumming events for team building, leadership development, and community engagement across schools, organizations, and businesses.

Passionate about interdisciplinary learning, John is the visionary behind “Physics of the Auditorium,” an in-course event that allows students to apply physics principles to real-time concert production, blending science, sound, and stage management in a fully student-led experience. He is also the founder of Mad About Science, the precursor to STEAM Inspires! a program that sparks STEM enthusiasm through playful experimentation and inspirational presentations.

John is a frequent presenter at the Fibonacci Project in Rome, NY, and appears on the Regents Science Live call-in program, sharing his insight and experience with students, educators, and the broader community.

In addition to his work in education and music, John holds a 1st Degree Instructor Status in Northern Shaolin Eagle Claw Kung Fu, reflecting his belief in lifelong learning, discipline, and the development of mind, body, and spirit.

Whether he’s designing curriculum, leading a drumming circle, or mentoring a student through a breakthrough moment, John’s purpose is clear: to create experiences that inspire, empower, and transform. Through STEAM Inspires, he continues to shape a future where young minds are not only prepared for the world—they’re inspired to change it.

Physics Educator & STEAM Advocate

Physics

Nano Science

Dwight “Buzz” Putnam brings over four decades of science education expertise to his role as MVCC/Dual-Credit Physics instructor at Notre Dame Senior High School, where he has taught for the past seven years. Mr. Putnam is committed to delivering a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that prepares students for success in college and beyond. Teaching at Notre Dame—alma mater of his two sons—continues to be a deeply rewarding chapter in his career, driven by the energy, curiosity, and dedication of his students.

A lifelong educator, Mr. Putnam retired from the Whitesboro School District in 2018 after 34 years of service. He holds a Master of Science in Science Education from SUNY Albany and has been recognized as a New York State Master Teacher and Yale University Teacher of the Year. He is also a former member of the Cornell University Institute for Physics Teachers Lab Development Team.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. Putnam is a nationally respected Physics Consultant, Product Developer, and Presenter for Arbor Scientific, a leading physics supply company. Since 1999, he has presented at national and state science conventions, sharing innovative tools and techniques that bring physics to life through interactive demonstrations and student-centered learning.

Mr. Putnam’s teaching philosophy emphasizes making physics accessible, engaging, and relevant by combining core scientific principles with hands-on experimentation and collaborative problem-solving.

Outside of education, Buzz enjoys traveling, staying active in sports, and spending time with his wife, Maryanne. He is also a certified basketball official and baseball umpire.

Certifications:

• New York State Permanent Certification in Physics 

• New York State Permanent Certification in Chemistry

• New York State Permanent Certification in Biology

 

Chemistry Educator & Leadership Mentor

Chemistry

Robert Stealey is a seasoned science educator with over 30 years of experience teaching Chemistry, Biology, and Earth Science at the secondary level. Currently serving as a Regents Chemistry instructor at Whitesboro Central School District, Mr. Stealey is known for delivering lab-based instruction that emphasizes inquiry, critical thinking, and real-world application. His commitment to student success is reflected in his individualized support and exam preparation strategies that help learners build academic confidence and achieve strong testing outcomes.

Since joining Whitesboro in 2002, Mr. Stealey has played a key role in curriculum development and instructional leadership—mentoring three chemistry teachers, sponsoring a student teacher, and designing a Forensics and Environmental course. He has also contributed to building-wide initiatives, serving on the Project Committee for major facility updates and representing faculty on the district-wide safety committee.

Prior to Whitesboro, Mr. Stealey taught at Mount Markham Central School District, instructing in all three core sciences and coaching Track & Field and Cross Country for nine years. His coaching tenure emphasized discipline, goal-setting, and personal growth—values that continue to shape his approach in the classroom.

In addition to his educational career, Mr. Stealey has proudly served in the New York Army National Guard for 27 years, currently holding the rank of Colonel. His military service includes deployments to Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan, and Ukraine, along with high-level coordination with federal and state agencies. His leadership skills—refined through real-world command experience—have deeply influenced his educational philosophy: lead by example, foster resilience, and build strong, supportive communities. 

Mr. Stealey holds a Master of Science in Curriculum and Assessment in Education from SUNY Plattsburgh and is completing a Master of Strategic Studies at the Air University, Maxwell Air Force Base. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Secondary Science from SUNY Cortland and holds permanent New York State certification in both Chemistry and Biology.

Outside the classroom, Mr. Stealey is a devoted husband of 30 years and a proud father to two sons, Jordan and Hunter. He is known for his integrity, work ethic, and lifelong dedication to education, leadership, and service.

Certifications:

• New York State Permanent Certification in Chemistry

• New York State Permanent Certification in Biology

Professional Associations:

• Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS)

• American Association of Chemistry Teachers (AACT)