She's been an ancient Roman, a House Elf, and as you can see above (far right), a Tyrolean musician straight off the Sound of Music set... and that's just at Explo.

As the head of the Curriculum Office at Explo at St. Mark's, Becky Craig Fleps always brings her A game, which to us means having an amazing knack for helping faculty members create engaging and innovative courses. For Becky, it also means having an incredible imagination — and a love of making every moment fun.

Where are you in your life now?

I am currently writing a K-2 environmentally-themed literacy curriculum. When I'm not working, I enjoy distance running, spending time with my husband and pug, and traveling!

How did you come to hear about EXPLO?

I heard about Explo from a girl that was about two years older at my undergrad. She had worked at Explo and the more she described it, the more excited I got! I went home that night and filled out the entire application (not an easy feat)!

After hearing about everything you'd be doing at EXPLO — and how hard you'd be working — what prompted you to apply?

It just seemed like such a magical place for kids! I'll always be a kid at heart and having the opportunity to teach and create "fun" for other kids just seemed right.  After reading the list of wacky activities and seeing videos of performances on the stage, I was hooked!

What was your experience like working at EXPLO this past summer?

Every summer has been a little different, as I've explored various roles. As an instructor, I loved creating videos in my classes and leading zany activities. Now that I'm in the curriculum world, I'm more “behind the scenes.” It's exciting to watch and guide instructors in designing amazing learning opportunities for kids. We have the most talented staff and I am always humbled and impressed!

Were there any moments in particular that stood out for you, above the rest?

The first year I came, I brought the "Numa" a dance I'd done in a dance show in college. At first, it was just a few girls from my floor and me doing the dance. By the end of the summer it had spread to the whole St. Mark's program! It always makes me smile watching all kinds of kids participating in such a silly dance!

What would you consider your greatest achievements/rewards from the summer?

Every year I walk away with a HUGE list of ideas to implement in my own curriculum designing. Watching new teachers, brainstorming with brilliant minds, and thinking about education innovatively really boosts my excitement and keeps me motivated to explore and write new lessons for the "traditional" classroom.

What lessons did you learn during your summer working at EXPLO?

Explo is where I found my passion for curriculum design. I love teaching and being in the classroom, but the planning, logistics, and research are what REALLY get me excited! I think experiencing it at Explo gave me the confidence to pursue my current career.

What skills/life lessons do you feel you brought to your experience at EXPLO, and to the people — and children — you worked with?

Relax and have fun! Just because it's called "class" doesn't mean it has to look or sound like the classes you've had before.

This summer, you're scheduled to come back to EXPLO? What excites you the most? What are you most looking forward to?

I’m thrilled to be coming back and dappling in curriculum again! Also, we are returning a BUNCH of amazing staff members and I look forward to the special work environment that I’ve only found at Explo!