Welcome Parent(s)/Guardian(s) and Students!
Welcome! Biology is such a fascinating subject to learn about. It is a natural science that focuses on life or living matter in all its forms and phenomena. Throughout the year, we will examine numerous topics within the discpline of biology to include but not limited to life's chemical basis, structure and function, homeostasis, growth and division, genetics and gene regulation, origin and history, distribution, and interactions.
My class webpage will serve as an additional source of information and resources for both students and parents/guardians. However, the course's Schoology page will be the primary source for all required instructional content. Please check the Schoology course page and calendar daily for class assignments, announcements, and supplemental instructional material.
Please know that I set high expectations for all of my students. My two primary goals for you to learn throughtout the year are: 1) To learn something new about the discipline of biology 2) To learn something new about yourself as a person. I am sure that many of you may find this challenging, at times, to accomplish. However, please know that I take my role as your teacher very seriously, and I will give you my very best each day because I do care about you and do genuinely want you to be successful in all you do!
I look forward to a great year of us being a supportive community of learners. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me should you have any questions or concerns.
Facts About Me
Began Teaching in 2003
Favorite Subject: Biology (many areas) and Oceanography!
Most Influential People: Parents, Mrs. Weinrich (my HS Biology Teacher at Tamaqua Area HS), and many close friends of mine.
Favorite Scientists: Sylvia Earle and Jane Goodall
Favorite Books: The Sea Around Us, Blue Planet, Ishmael
Favorite Movie: Stand By Me Or Goonies (childhood favorites)
Favorite Food: Italian or Thai
Favorite Music: I love listening to music, especially Coldplay.
Favorite TV show: Cooking Channels, Science Channels, Weather Channel.
Favorite Travel Destination: I love being around any body of water. But, the beach is definitely one of my happy places, especially in Maine!
Teaching Schedule:
| K-Block | 5th: Teacher Lunch |
| 1st: AP Biology | 6th: AP Biology |
|
2nd: AP Biology Lab (C,F) Study Hall (A, B, D, E) |
7th: AP Biology Lab (C,F) /Study Hall (A, B, D, E) |
| 3rd: CP Biology | 8th: CP Biology |
| 4th: Teacher Prep | *After school study sessions/tutoring available by request. |
Education:
Clemson University Clemson, South Carolina
M.S. Biology (Spring 2025)
Alvernia University Reading, PA
M.Ed. Educational Leadership (2018)
Certification: Secondary Education: Biology (7-12) & General Science (7-12) (2016)
State University of New York at Brockport Brockport, NY
Earth Systems Science Graduate Courses (non-matriculated)
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Kutztown, PA
B.S. Biology (Organismal/Ecology), 2003
B.S. Environmental Science (Biology), 2003
Certifications:
Pennsylvania Instructional II: Secondary Biology (7-12) & General Science (7-12)
American Meteorologial Society (AMS) MS DataStreme Atmosphere, Climate, and Oceans Mentor Teacher
AMS & United States Naval Academy Maury Project
Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) Certified
Grants & Monies Received:
Chromebooks in the Classroom $10,000.00
Women's Slovak Community Grant $6,000.00
Toshiba America Foundation Grant: $4,970.00
Daughters of Charity Grant Program: $10,000.00
Schulkill Community Trust Fund: $500.00
Saving Our Streams (SOS) Grant Program: $300.00
NBVM Faculty Wishlist Program: $1,000.00+
Awards/Honors:
2016 Recognized by Pennsylvania Department of Education: Teacher Appreciation Week
2014 Da Vinci Science Center's Hall of Fame Educator Excellence Award Recipient
2013 Nominated for Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching of Mathematics and Science
2006 Nativity BVM High School Teacher of the Year Award
2004 Inducted into Who's Who Among America's Teachers
