by Jen Myers
Math Resource teacher Amila Colon is a force at the Butler Middle School.
In her role she supports and collaborates with math teachers to create a school-wide culture where all students feel supported, challenged, and excited about learning math. But that is not where her efforts stop.
Colon created CHICAS (Curious, Hardworking, Innovators, Committed to Advance in STEM), an 8-week-long Saturday program that helps mostly Latina students increase their math and science skills and exposes them to opportunities in STEM fields, has spearheaded the school’s STEAM night, and is a member of the district’s Diverse Teacher Leaders Fellowship program.
All of this from someone who never dreamed she would be a teacher.
Colon always loved math. Growing up she figured she would be an engineer.
She came to Lowell from Puerto Rico as a high school junior, not speaking English and not having any friends or family here. She graduated from Lowell High School and then went on to Middlesex Community College. Through her studies she realized that although she still loved math, she also loved helping other people understand and learn math. And she was good at it – a born teacher.
“After college, I started working as a tutor, which opened the door for me and truly sparked my interest in becoming a math teacher,” Colon said. “I love helping others, and I love math—the perfect combination.”
She earned her bachelor’s degree from UMass Lowell and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Fitchburg State University. She is currently still studying – working toward an Education Specialist Degree in Leadership and Management from FSU.
She has been a teacher for 19 years, the last two as the Math Resource teacher at the Butler.
“One of the aspects I love most about this role is the ability to impact more than just one classroom,” Colon said. “By working with teachers, I can help improve instruction school-wide, ultimately benefiting a larger number of students. I strongly believe that to be an effective coach, it’s essential to stay connected to the classroom. That is why I continue to teach my own class—it allows me to stay current with student needs, build relationships, and ensure that the strategies I share with teachers are practical and effective.”
Colon partnered with Lowell-based education non-profit Fortaleza, Inc. to launch CHICAS, a program providing extra math and science instruction and inspiration to about two dozen 5th and 6th grade, mostly Latina students.
“As educators, we often talk about closing the achievement gap, but what’s missing are opportunities for students from historically underperforming subgroups,” she said. “Latino and Hispanic students consistently score lower on state tests, and research shows that females—especially females of color—are underrepresented in STEM careers. I wanted to change that narrative by creating a space where Latina girls could see themselves in STEM, explore, and build confidence in math and science.”
With funding from Fortaleza, Colon was able to bring in a dedicated math teacher and science teacher to lead engaging, hands-on lessons designed to make STEM exciting. They also took the girls on a field trip to the Museum of Science, and ended the program with a family showcase where students presented their projects.
“The experience has been incredible,” she said. “Seeing the excitement in these girls as they explore STEM, build confidence, and realize their potential is exactly why I created CHICAS. My hope is to expand the program so every girl in my school has access to this opportunity. CHICAS isn’t just about STEM—it’s about representation, empowerment, and showing young Latina girls they belong in these fields.”
In January, Colon organized the Butler’s second annual STEAM night. More than 300 families attended, as well as several community partners, including the Bike Connector, UMass Lowell, Greater Lowell Technical High School, and Middlesex Community College. Butler teachers pitched in by running interactive stations featuring 3D printing, art, tower building, chemical reactions, and more.
“Students and their families weren’t just spectators—they were active participants, building, experimenting, and discovering together,” she said. “Events like this are important because they showcase the real-world connections to STEAM while fostering a sense of curiosity and excitement in both students and parents. My hope is that STEAM Night continues to grow, inspiring more students to see themselves as future scientists, engineers, artists, and innovators!”
While she is obviously very committed to providing opportunities for students, Colon is also aware of the importance of fostering her own professional growth and development.
She said the district’s Diverse Teacher Leaders Fellowship program, a collaboration between Lowell Public Schools, Project LEARN, and UMass Lowell, aimed at diversifying the district’s workforce and providing professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities to our diverse staff, has been essential in that pursuit.
“One of the most meaningful aspects has been the chance to connect with teachers who look like me,” she said. “Representation matters, and being in a space with other educators who share similar backgrounds and experiences has been truly empowering.”
It was through the DTLF that Colon met Butler Middle School Principal Jaime Moody and took her current position.
“Through this program, I’ve built strong connections with amazing teachers and administrators from across the district,” Colon added. “These relationships have given me a support system of like-minded educators who understand the challenges and joys of this work. More than just networking, it’s been about building a community that uplifts and inspires each other.”
Her efforts do not go unnoticed by her colleagues.
“She stands out for her relentless advocacy for underrepresented students, especially Latina girls,” Butler Community School Program Manager Neyder Fernandez said of Colon. “Her initiatives significantly enhance diversity and inclusion, making a lasting impact on both students and the community.”
At the end of their middle school journey, Colon wants Butler students to leave the building knowing they were supported, valued, and cared for throughout middle school.
“Middle school is such a critical time in their growth, and our goal has always been to help shape them not just as students, but as future professionals, leaders, and lifelong learners,” she said. “I want them to leave knowing that they are capable, resilient, and full of potential; that the challenges they faced and the lessons they learned—both academically and personally—have prepared them for what’s ahead.”
All About Ms. Colon
Hobbies: Volleyball, Salsa Dancing, Crochet
Dream Vacation: Europe
Favorite song to sing in the car: Preciosa by Marc Anthony
Favorite meal: Sancocho
Favorite snack: Cheese
Favorite Movie: Moana
Favorite Book: The Four Agreements
Favorite TV Show: Survivor
