What inspired you to become an Environmental Science teacher?
I’m an environmental science teacher because it’s my small part in making this world a better place. There are a lot of complex and daunting environmental issues that can easily paralyze people, but I’d rather play a small role than nothing at all. So, to fight the good fight (against climate change, environmental (in)justice, pollution, biodiversity loss, etc.), I think I can bring awareness and empowerment through education because I can do it, I love doing it, and it aligns with my life goals.
Where did you grow up and go to college?
I grew up in Franklin, which is about an hour north of Wexford, where French Creek meets the Allegheny River. I attended undergraduate school at West Virginia University where I studied Environmental Geoscience and then went to West Chester University to complete coursework for a teaching certificate and eventually attended Slippery Rock University for a Masters degree.
How long have you been teaching?
I’m working on my 13th year right now.
How has your experience at North Allegheny been so far?
So far, I have been loving NA! My first impression came from meeting staff, who have been extremely welcoming and accepting. Even as an adult, I fear not being invited to the metaphorical lunch table, but everyone has been extremely kind and helpful to me as the newbie. Meeting students has been the most exciting part, though. It has been lovely to experience the school pride and the mature atmosphere of the 11-12 building and to learn about the exciting future plans of students. I’ve noticed an optimism, enthusiasm, and forward-thinking attitude that is extremely refreshing.
Do you have a favorite specific topic you love to teach within Environmental Science?
My favorite topic changes with student interest. Sometimes students show high interest in ecosystem dynamics, and their enthusiasm makes it exciting to teach and other times students become really interested in sustainable design, water conservation, or local pollution issues. When students are interested, it drives deeper discussion and becomes more exciting to teach.
What hobbies or activities do you like to participate in outside of school?
If it’s an ideal day, I’d be paddleboarding or kayaking somewhere.
If you could solve one environmental problem with a magic wand, which one would you want to solve?
I’d solve environmental injustice with that magic wand because then countless other problems are also solved.
What is something students would be surprised to learn about you?
Some of my best friends are ones I’ve had for over 20 years!
What is a piece of advice you would give to students that you wish you knew when you were our age?
Try new things often–talk to people outside of your circle, go to new places, try new foods, listen to new music, and read something not on your feed.
Do you have a favorite genre of music, if so what are some of your favorite artists?
I like a variety of music–punk, folk, rock, afro-groove–whatever is fun in the moment. Some of my all-time favorite and more commonly known bands/artists are Rage Against the Machine, Van Morrison, Modest Mouse, Pixies, and Neil Young.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you want to go and why?
I’d take my nephew to Antarctica to see penguins because he loves them and that’s all he wants in life.
Do you have a favorite national park?
I really liked the Kolab Canyon side of Zion, It’s the cooler, less visited side of the park.
How long do you think you would last in a zombie apocalypse?
In a zombie apocalypse, you really have to be able to find your own resources and protect yourself. I might be able to forage for a little bit and make my way around this area on foot if needed, but I don’t think I’d be able to compete with skilled hunters, trappers, or the hobby-survivalists who’d be excited about the challenge. I’m thinking that I’d survive longer than half of the people. If I was able to outsmart other humans and fight zombies, I think my resourcefulness would still only get me so far. Eventually, food and medicine would be an issue after a while, so I’m thinking I’d last an average amount of time.
What is one thing you want students to take away from your class?
I want students to stay curious about the world and to be confident in their ability to think and figure things out.
