Hello, I'm JediJill
Exploring the Universe of S.T.E.M. and Beyond
About Me
Greetings, I'm JediJill, the S.T.E.M. Director at Burns Science and Technology School in Oak Hill, FL. Merging my passion for S.T.E.M. education with innovative teaching methods brings me immense joy.
I am also a proud member of Team Kraken-BattleBots, a contender on The Discovery Channel's "BattleBots." When I'm not in the classroom or lab, you'll catch us battling it out with Kraken's flaming capabilities on national TV!
My Background
From the rugged terrain of Golovin, Alaska to the vibrant stages of rock 'n' roll with legendary bands like Motley Crue and Van Halen, my journey has been anything but ordinary. After a life-changing event, I pivoted to education, earning degrees in Elementary Education, Digital Design, and more.
Education & Achievements
- AA in Elementary Ed. w/ minor in Computer Technology - Magna Cum Laude from Georgia Military College
- AS in General Studies w/ minor in Psychology - Magna Cum Laude from Georgia Military College
- BFA in Digital Design and Visual Communication - Summa Cum Laude from AIU
- Master of Education in Elementary Education - GPA 3.94 from UOP
Contact Me
If you're interested in learning more or just want to chat about the magic of S.T.E.M., feel free to reach out!
I have trained my roboteers so well that I finally got to watch an entire match at my event instead of continually focusing on soldering and repairs!!
Click the link below to view a FB video
of a great match:
Hello, I'm JediJILL- the TLDR version:
Greetings,
I'm JediJill, the S.T.E.M. Director at Burns Science and Technology School in Oak Hill, FL. Merging my passion for S.T.E.M. education with a keen eye for cutting-edge tech trends and innovative teaching methods brings me immense joy. Former students affectionately bestowed upon me the moniker "JediJill" for my knack at imparting mind-boggling facts about the universe. One student even remarked, "wow, you just Jedi mind tricked us into learning something when we thought we were just having fun!" Those accolades still make my day, every day!
Delving into genealogy is another fascination of mine. Hailing from Fort McPherson, GA, my roots trace back to distinguished lineage, with ancestors from my mother, Virginia’s esteemed Griffith family dating back to 1132 A.D. in Wales, UK. My father, Horace S. Whitfield's valor in WW2 and Korea, coupled with his 30+ years as an R.O.T.C. instructor in Atlanta, GA, fills me with immense pride.
As a proud member of Team Kraken-BattleBots, you'll catch us battling it out on The Discovery Channel's "BattleBots." Since our debut in 2018, Kraken has been a mainstay, even venturing into the adrenaline-fueled arena of "Destruct-A-Thon" in Las Vegas! My role? Managing Kraken's batteries during filming, pioneering the flamethrower design in 2019, and, yes, cheering exuberantly when it ignites during our fights. It's safe to say, I've made my mark!
My daughter, Zoe Jane, a powerhouse graphic designer and robot fabricator, adds her magic touch to our team. From crafting mini-bots to painting our trusty narwhal companion, Wally, Zoe Jane's talent knows no bounds. And her talents as a dental assistant, with dreams of becoming a hygienist, showcases her versatility.
My journey in education took me to the remote village of Golovin on the Bering Sea in Alaska, where I taught from 2009 to 2012. In this unique setting, I nurtured young minds from 2nd to 6th grade, while also serving as the "Success for All" reading facilitator and technology liaison for the district. The allure of the historic Iditarod trail passing through Golovin, amidst its rugged terrain and close-knit community of 149 residents, remains etched fondly in my memory. The challenges of accessing basic amenities, like groceries flown in via bush plane from Nome, AK, added a layer of adventure to our daily lives. This chapter was truly an extraordinary experience that enriched my perspective in countless ways.
Before my foray into education and robotics, I traversed the vibrant world of rock 'n' roll as a drum technician. Touring alongside legendary acts such as Motley Crue, Van Halen, and Ozzy Osbourne during the '80s forged unforgettable memories. However, a life-altering car accident after touring with the opening act, "Rhythm Corps" on Pat Benetar's, "Wide Awake in Dreamland" tour, prompted me to pivot towards higher education, culminating in four degrees, including a Master of Education.
Armed with four college degrees, I'm a perpetual student of life. Whether it's tinkering in the lab, breaking barriers, or piecing together new creations, I thrive on the thrill of discovery.
My ultimate goal? Empowering others to embrace their passions, embark on their own adventures, and revel in the joy of learning.
In a galaxy not so far away, my love for Star Wars and various fandoms shines bright. So, as we navigate this cosmic journey called life, remember:
Live long, prosper, and may the FORCE be with y'all!
My degrees:
AA in Elementary Ed. w/minor in Computer Technology--graduated magna cum laude from Georgia Military College
AS in Gen. Studies w/ minor in Psychology--graduated magna cum laude from Georgia Military College
BFA in Digital Design and Visual Communication--graduated summa cum laude from AIU
Master of Education in Elementary Education--graduated w/a 3.94 GPA from UOP
I'm JediJill, the S.T.E.M. Director at Burns Science and Technology School in Oak Hill, FL. Merging my passion for S.T.E.M. education with a keen eye for cutting-edge tech trends and innovative teaching methods brings me immense joy. Former students affectionately bestowed upon me the moniker "JediJill" for my knack at imparting mind-boggling facts about the universe. One student even remarked, "wow, you just Jedi mind tricked us into learning something when we thought we were just having fun!" Those accolades still make my day, every day!
Delving into genealogy is another fascination of mine. Hailing from Fort McPherson, GA, my roots trace back to distinguished lineage, with ancestors from my mother, Virginia’s esteemed Griffith family dating back to 1132 A.D. in Wales, UK. My father, Horace S. Whitfield's valor in WW2 and Korea, coupled with his 30+ years as an R.O.T.C. instructor in Atlanta, GA, fills me with immense pride.
As a proud member of Team Kraken-BattleBots, you'll catch us battling it out on The Discovery Channel's "BattleBots." Since our debut in 2018, Kraken has been a mainstay, even venturing into the adrenaline-fueled arena of "Destruct-A-Thon" in Las Vegas! My role? Managing Kraken's batteries during filming, pioneering the flamethrower design in 2019, and, yes, cheering exuberantly when it ignites during our fights. It's safe to say, I've made my mark!
My daughter, Zoe Jane, a powerhouse graphic designer and robot fabricator, adds her magic touch to our team. From crafting mini-bots to painting our trusty narwhal companion, Wally, Zoe Jane's talent knows no bounds. And her talents as a dental assistant, with dreams of becoming a hygienist, showcases her versatility.
My journey in education took me to the remote village of Golovin on the Bering Sea in Alaska, where I taught from 2009 to 2012. In this unique setting, I nurtured young minds from 2nd to 6th grade, while also serving as the "Success for All" reading facilitator and technology liaison for the district. The allure of the historic Iditarod trail passing through Golovin, amidst its rugged terrain and close-knit community of 149 residents, remains etched fondly in my memory. The challenges of accessing basic amenities, like groceries flown in via bush plane from Nome, AK, added a layer of adventure to our daily lives. This chapter was truly an extraordinary experience that enriched my perspective in countless ways.
Before my foray into education and robotics, I traversed the vibrant world of rock 'n' roll as a drum technician. Touring alongside legendary acts such as Motley Crue, Van Halen, and Ozzy Osbourne during the '80s forged unforgettable memories. However, a life-altering car accident after touring with the opening act, "Rhythm Corps" on Pat Benetar's, "Wide Awake in Dreamland" tour, prompted me to pivot towards higher education, culminating in four degrees, including a Master of Education.
Armed with four college degrees, I'm a perpetual student of life. Whether it's tinkering in the lab, breaking barriers, or piecing together new creations, I thrive on the thrill of discovery.
My ultimate goal? Empowering others to embrace their passions, embark on their own adventures, and revel in the joy of learning.
In a galaxy not so far away, my love for Star Wars and various fandoms shines bright. So, as we navigate this cosmic journey called life, remember:
Live long, prosper, and may the FORCE be with y'all!
My degrees:
AA in Elementary Ed. w/minor in Computer Technology--graduated magna cum laude from Georgia Military College
AS in Gen. Studies w/ minor in Psychology--graduated magna cum laude from Georgia Military College
BFA in Digital Design and Visual Communication--graduated summa cum laude from AIU
Master of Education in Elementary Education--graduated w/a 3.94 GPA from UOP
Here are some photos of me on the "Quaternary" tour with Motley Crue. Bottom left was Tommy Lee's drum techs on that tour from left to right: Fumi, me, and Clyde Duncan
My daughter Zoe Jane made these graphics for my Droid lab and I LOVE them!
