Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) educator Tami L. Bhadai has been selected to participate in the highly competitive Teacher Innovator Institute at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., a distinguished national program that brings together top educators from across the country.
Bhadai was chosen as part of an elite cohort of approximately 80 educators nationwide — including a limited group of just 30 newly selected participants — recognized for their excellence in teaching, leadership in STEM education, and commitment to advancing innovative classroom practices.
A 22-year veteran educator and a current Science Lab teacher for 4th and 5th grade students, Bhadai is known for creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and critical thinking. She was also named 2025 Campus Teacher of the Year and is a finalist in the prestigious H-E’B Excellence in Education Lifetime Achievement Elementary category, demonstrating her impact and dedication to student success. In addition, she serves as the campus Junior Master Gardening sponsor, extending learning beyond the classroom.
The Smithsonian’s Teacher Innovator Institute is a rigorous, multi-year professional development experience designed to connect educators with leading experts in aerospace science, history, and technology. Through immersive, hands-on learning, behind-the-scenes museum access, and collaboration with national thought leaders, participants explore how to integrate informal STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education into authentic classroom instruction.
“I am deeply honored to represent our district at the national level through the Teacher Innovator Institute at the Smithsonian,” said Bhadai. “This opportunity reflects the dedication of our entire community, and I am excited to bring back what I learn to benefit our PSJA students.”
Participants commit to a two-summer experience, engaging in intensive sessions led by Smithsonian staff and guest experts, while also developing and implementing a professional learning plan that extends the institute’s impact into their school communities.
Bhadai’s selection highlights PSJA ISD’s continued commitment to excellence in STEM education and its focus on providing students with innovative, high-quality learning experiences that prepare them for the future.
