August 25, 2012

Greetings especially to my new students who represent (mostly) the Class of 2016. I look forward to teaching you this year. I've been at ECHHS since its conception in 1996. Prior to that I taught 'across the tracks' at CHHS for almost the same amount of years. I have also done some teaching 'down East' in Kinston, as well as hearing impaired students in Louisiana. I especially enjoyed my stint many years ago as a Peace Corps science coordinator in the Philippines and I hope to do something similar to this after I retire.  I have taught most of the sciences including chemistry and physical science, but I especially relish Biology, the 'science of life'.

For many years I have sponsored and co-sponsored the Habitat for Humanity Club as well as the Science Club at both ECHHS and CHHS. The former club provides an opportunity for students to help people who might be less fortunate then themselves and to give something back to our community (affordable living in Orange County). The latter club challenges science-oriented students to a wide range of friendly competition in all of the sciences. It includes the Science Olympiad, the Science Bowl, and the Blue Heron Bowl (Oceanography) as well as a 'Space Settlement' competition and linking up and promoting science with younger students (Science Daze).

I received my Masters Degree in Science Education at East Carolina University and a Doctorate in Science Education at the University of Northern Colorado. I am Nationally Board Certified in all levels of science.  But by far, the single most important factor that has helped me as an educator for the past 40 years was having three children go through this school system. I have learned alot through their triumphs, trials, and tribulations.  I have especially been blessed by having a spouse who has put up with my long after school hours due to science-related endeavors.

Although I am closing in on a long career of teaching, I have the same if not more zest I did when I was twenty-one in trying to engage young folks to the wonders of life.