Background
I was born in Austin and studied Aquatic Biology at the University of Texas at Austin (B.S. 1995) and at Texas State University in San Marcos (M.S. 2002). Before becoming a Science teacher I worked as a scientist on independent and collaborative research projects studying the biology of fishes found in Mexico. I studied a group of unique endangered fish species found in the northern desert and a collaborated with a colleague to describe the biology of a group of fishes found throughout the rivers in Central Mexico. While working as a substitute teacher in graduate school I discovered I really enjoyed working with young people in an academic environment. So, in 2004 I became a Science teacher and have worked as a 7th and 8th grade science teacher and for four years at an alternative high school. I taught Biology, Integrated Chemistry and Physics, Chemistry, and Aquatic Biology. My certification is Composite Science 8-12, and Special Education K-12. I enjoy sharing my passion for science with students through hands-on activities and engaging science labs. My favorite organisms are cactus, fish, and Acia trees.
Teaching Philosophy
Growing up I made it through school, never really connected with any of my teachers, and struggled with difficult subjects. It was not until college that I discovered my learning style and connected with my teachers. My influential teachers took the time to work with me on an individual level while making me feel comfortable about asking questions and repeating things if I needed to. This was an eye-opening experience and inspired me to change my major from Art to Science and eventually get an advanced degree in Aquatic Biology. This experience has significantly influenced my teaching philosophy. I approach teaching as process that involves building on students’ present knowledge base and inspiring them to want to learn more. One of my favorite things about teaching Science is getting the students actively working on a project or activity. I love seeing them explore it and later hear them talking about how cool it was.
Finally, I feel that science is a way for everyone to understand the world; you don’t have to be a “Rocket Scientist” to use the scientific method to better understand every day events. Though, I do plan on making rockets with my students this year.
The Odyssey Difference
Being a teacher Odyssey allows me to concentrate on what really matters: the students. The smaller class sizes and ability to tailor instruction to students’ learning styles is very appealing. I have worked at larger schools and I did not have the opportunity to concentrate on lessons and instruction like I do here. The connections program is really exciting and allows me grow and learn from other teachers while creating engaging, fun lesson for our students. The service component to our programs is also beneficial to students because it gives them the chance to help others and use what they learn in school in real world situations. This year I will be supervising students in a program designed to help local streams around Austin. Growing up exploring the local waterways, this activity has a special meaning to me. Overall, I am very happy to be working at a school that gives students an education with such a wide breadth of experiences.
