Ohio University alumni bring innovation to gifted education in Chillicothe

Two Ohio University graduates are transforming gifted education in the Chillicothe City School District through a program that blends creativity, technology and individualized learning.

Gifted Intervention Specialists Chelsea Herbert and Lindsay Burns, both OHIO alumni, lead the Excite Lab, short for Exceptional Creativity and Individual Talent Enrichment, located at Chillicothe Intermediate School. The lab serves more than 300 gifted students across the district, offering experiences that go beyond traditional classroom instruction.

Both educators find the greatest reward in building long-term relationships with the students they teach.

“We get to watch their journey from first grade until they’re seniors,” Herbert said. “It’s a blessing to be a small part of that.”

Herbert runs a book club for each grade level, where students read the selected books, complete assignments, engage in discussions, and create related projects. The Excite Lab offers students diverse opportunities to learn one of 14 languages through Rosetta Stone, design projects with 3D printers and participate in coding programs. Burns said their approach reflects their shared belief in empowering students to explore big ideas.

Herbert earned a bachelor’s degree in specialized studies with a focus in communication and music promotion at Ohio University in 2007. After graduating, she served as a substitute teacher in the area before seeking an education degree at OHIO Chillicothe. She earned her degree in early childhood education from Ohio University’s Patton College of Education in 2012 and has taught in the Chillicothe City School District for 12 years, teaching kindergarten and first grade for ten years before moving to gifted education, where she now supports students in grades K-6.

“Chelsea was never afraid to advocate for her students,” said Karen Corcoran, associate professor of education at OHIO Chillicothe. “She was passionate about making a difference. We are pleased but not surprised by her success in this profession.”

Burns started her college career as a chemistry major before switching to education, balancing her studies with the busy schedule of the Marching 110. She graduated in 2009 after completing her student teaching through OHIO Chillicothe. Burns taught sixth-grade math in Washington Courthouse for five years, then returned to Chillicothe. She holds a master’s degree in teacher leadership, an education specialist degree, and a PhD in integrated STEM education. She also worked part-time as an evaluation specialist for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement for several years.

A graduate of the Chillicothe City School District, Burns is proud to be teaching in the schools and the community that shaped her.

“It's important to me to give back,” she said.

Herbert credited OHIO Chillicothe faculty including Jamie Harmount and Mary Jo Flamm-Miller for preparing her to teach with empathy. Both educators share a deep commitment to individual student enrichment and growth, reflecting the transformative power of education as they empower students to explore, create and follow their interests.