As Associate Director of Mathematics and Computer Science of the Rice Office of STEM Engagement (R-STEM), Allen provides mathematics and computer science support. In this role, he specializes in providing lesson ideas, professional development, and teacher mentoring in the fields of mathematics and computer science. Particular points of emphasis include increasing numeracy, inquiry-based learning and culturally responsive teaching strategies. He serves on the K–12 Workforce Development Team for the Precise Advanced Technologies and Health Systems for Underserved Populations (PATHS-UP) and Expeditions in Computing NSF Engineering Research Centers. Allen is also the lead facilitator/developer of the ConocoPhillips Applied Mathematics Program (AMP!) and the Computer Science Teaching at Rice (CSTaR) professional development programs. Additionally, Allen has traveled across the country facilitating teacher preparation courses for various high school computer science competency exams.
Before joining R-STEM, Allen worked in various positions in the educational field. As an interventionist in Orleans Parish Schools, he worked with elementary students to improve their literacy and numeracy levels. As a middle school teacher in Alief ISD, he taught 8th grade mathematics and Algebra I. Additionally, Allen worked on mathematics curriculum development for Alief ISD and Rice University. Allen currently holds a B.S. in Computer Engineering from Xavier University of Louisiana and an M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership from Lamar University.