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NHLI | New Hampshire Learning Initiative
All Students Deserve a Quality Education
Sue Downer
Sue Downer brings over 30 years of experience in scientific research, classroom teaching, and curriculum leadership to her role as Director of STEM and Performance Learning at the New Hampshire Learning Initiative (NHLI). Prior to NHLI, she spent 28 years teaching chemistry and AP Chemistry at Souhegan High School in Amherst, NH, where she also served as Science Department Coordinator and Chemistry Content Lead for the NH PACE initiative.
Areas of Specialization
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K–12 Science Innovation: Three-dimensional science learning, phenomena and sensemaking, OpenSciEd implementation, and high-quality instructional materials.
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Assessment & Curriculum Design: Competency-based education (CBE), performance assessment, and career-connected learning.
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Professional Development: Educator coaching, workshop facilitation, and statewide instructional scaling.
Awards & Credentials
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Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (2019)
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New Hampshire Excellence in Education Award (2021)
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M.S. in Physical Chemistry: Boston College
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B.A. in Chemistry: Saint Anselm College
Debbie Metcalfe
Business Administrator
Debbie joined NHLI part-time in 2019 to support the important work being done by NHLI and its outstanding staff. As a result of the growth of the organization, her position became full-time in 2021. Her role is to keep things running smoothly through attention to detail, resourcefulness, and a sense of humor.
Prior to NHLI, Debbie spent 35 years in alumni and development work for organizations including the Museum of Science, Lesley University, Tufts University and the last 18 years at Harvard University.
Debbie graduated from UNH and lives in southern NH with her husband, Ted.
Director of STEM and Performance Learning
