Kara Ball is the author of50 Strategies for Teaching STEAM Skills, an academic officer for Teacher Created Materials, and a professor of education. She specializes in inquiry-based and inclusive learning across STEAM, AI, and special education, with a focus on supporting students who learn and think differently.

In 2025, Kara was honored as one of five recipients of the Bezos Courage & Civility Award, recognizing leaders who take on meaningful challenges with courage, empathy, and civility. The award supports her continued efforts to expand access to inclusive, inquiry-driven STEM learning for all children.

Previously, Kara served as a special educator and district STEM leader. In 2018, she was named the DoDEA State Teacher of the Year and a finalist for National Teacher of the Year. She has also been recognized as a Distinguished Alumni of Towson University and received the Shirley J. Lowrie “Thank You for Teaching” Award. Kara is a National Board-Certified Teacher and holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education from Towson University, a Master of Science in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, and a Master of Philosophy. Follow her at @ontheballeducator and karaball.com.