2014 OBTA Honorees

Amanda Tsoi

Formally of Somerville High School, Somerville, MA

Amanda has taught biology at Somerville High School in Massachusetts for eight years. She has taught AP, General, Remedial, Special Ed and English Language Learner Biology, and Anatomy and Physiology. Amanda has spent her summers working in the various fields of biology: neuroscience, animal development, biological engineering and materials science research labs at MIT and the Whitehead Institute. She also served as a health aid at a medical clinic in Africa. During the school year, she serves as an advisor for three clubs and is a consultant for two organizations: MIT's Education Arcade, developing math and science video games, and TERC, reviewing online climate change curriculum. She takes professional development courses at MIT and Harvard in which scientists share their current research and techniques. These experiences have helped her to see the importance of exposing students to open-ended experiments and collaboration.

Amanda recently moved to Carlsbad, California, where she teaches eighth grade science at Valley Middle School.

Region I (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT)

Karen Lucci

Hopewell Valley Central High School, Pennington, NJ

I am a biology/ AP biology teacher at Windsor High School in Colorado. I have been a teacher for 22 years and still absolutely love what I do. Being raised on a dairy farm instilled a curiosity and love of nature in me and that is what I bring to the classroom. I am a proud member of the BSCS/ AP Leadership Academy and attending the annual NABT conference is one of the highlights of my life!!

My other favorite things include traveling with my two beautiful daughters and my husband Pete to great biological destination like the Galapagos and Costa Rica.

Region II (DE, DC, MD, NJ, NY, PA, VA)

Lori Kenny

Huntington High School, Huntington, NY

Lori Kenny has been teaching Biology and Science Research at Huntington High School in Huntington, NY since 2005. Lori has a B.S. from St. Michael’s College and an M.S. from Adelphi University. Previous to teaching she conducted research at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. She enjoys motivating students to explore the sciences through lessons that explore personal interests and enhance college/career readiness skills. Lori has designed and implemented a successful Science Research Program, integrating mentoring from scientists and guided curriculum. She created an internship program on website development, laboratory management, and student teaching. She is a life-long learner and actively seeks out professional development opportunities to become a nationally certified teacher. Lori also advises the Science Club and Science National Honor Society in activities such as Science Olympiad.

During her spare time, together with her husband, she enjoys trail running, windsurfing, traveling, skiing, and snuggling with her newborn son, Osborne.

Region II (DE, DC, MD, NJ, NY, PA, VA)

Richard Strauss

St. Patrick Catholic School, Norfolk, VA

My career in science education has spanned over 37 years. I began as a life science teacher. From there I entered graduate school at the University of Virginia where I earned a doctorate in science education. While there, I supervised science student teachers and provided inservice education using technology in the science classroom. I returned to Norfolk as a science teacher specialist for four years, working in K-12 classrooms across the district. I then moved to a high school where I taught biology and chemistry and served as science department chair. My last public school position was in central office where I led the district’s local assessment program while continuing to work with science teachers on projects that focused on assessment for learning and problem-based learning strategies in middle school science. After retiring from public schools I returned to teaching life science and biology at a small Catholic School.

Region II (DE, DC, MD, NJ, NY, PA, VA)

Jennifer Pfannerstill

North Shore County Day School, Winnetka, IL

As the Scientist-in-Residence at North Shore Country Day School in Winnetka, IL, I have the opportunity to “do science” with kids everyday. I’ve taught Pre-AP Biology, AP Biology, Anatomy and Physiology and Advanced Open Research and various independent studies over the span of nearly twenty years. In that time, I’ve discovered that teaching biology is about making data rational by telling a biological story. It’s the “biological story” that I love and what I want my students to learn to love. My current passion is in sharing science stories about process and progress in science teaching and learning with educators. I also have participated in the AP Biology Reading for many years, as Reader, Table Leader, Assistant to the Chief Reader and Exam Leader and am currently a member of the AP Biology Development Committee. I was also named an ISTA Exxon Mobil Outstanding Teacher of Science in 2014.

Region III (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI)

Kim Terry

South Vermillion High School, Clinton, IN

Kim is in her 14th year of teaching freshmen honors biology, human anatomy and physiology, AP biology, zoology and serving as the science department chair at South Vermillion High School in Clinton, Indiana. She graduated with a BS in Biology Teaching from Purdue University and and MS in Life Science from Indiana State University. Her classes are described as “organized chaos” as students are constantly working on different labs, projects and assignments while discovering how amazing science can be. Outside class, she coaches Academic Super Bowl, acts as a class and club sponsor, organizes an annual bridge bust competition, takes students on a biannual trip to Hawaii for marine biology and serves on the board of the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers. She has been recognized several times by students as the “Most Influential Teacher” in their academic careers.

She married to Tim, who serves as the school’s athletic director and together they have 4 sons.

Region III (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI)

JoAnn Miller

Oconto Falls High School, Oconto Falls, WI

JoAnn (Jo) Miller, a National Board Certified Teacher, has been teaching Advanced Placement biology and college prep biology for eight years at Oconto Falls High School. She brings her passion for science and real-world experience from industry into the classroom to connect with the aspirations of her students. Jo believes all students are unique and success means different things for each of them. Jo was the 2013 Wisconsin State Teacher of the Year, named a 2012 Kohl Fellow, and was also named the Oconto Falls School District Teacher of the year in 2012. Jo worked with the Wisconsin State Science Leadership Team to review and recommend the NGSS to the State Superintendent as well as presenting preview sessions on the standards in Northeast Wisconsin. She regularly contributes to teacher effectiveness by presenting at and facilitating National Board Certification candidate support workshops around the state. She also has led numerous workshops on integrating technology in the science classroom.

Region III (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI)

Jeremy Allar

Ottumwa High School, Ottumwa, IA

I received my BA in Biology (teaching) at the University of Northern Iowa. After a semester of substitute teaching, I began teaching in at Montgomery County R-II in Montgomery City, MO. I taught students 9-12 in the courses of Applied Biology/Chemistry I and II. The following year, I return to Iowa and began teaching freshman Biology I at Ottumwa High School. Since then I have taught 10-12 Biology II and I currently teach 10-12 Anatomy & Physiology, 11-12 Advanced Anatomy &Physiology, and chair the Science department. I have been involved in our district science standards development, our department’s common inquiry assessment, and am now involved with our AEA’s NGSS network.

I have also served as a mentor, union negotiations representative, coach (baseball and volleyball), and most importantly I am a husband and father.

Region IV (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD)

Michael Ralph

Olathe East High School, Olathe, KS

Michael Ralph is a graduate of the UKanTeach program at the University of Kansas and has been teaching since 2010 at Olathe East High School in the Kansas City area. He teaches biology, AP biology, and biotechnology and also sponsors the Science Olympiad team, the biotechnology club and freshman volleyball. In addition to his teaching responsibilities he is also an author for Biology Rocks!, which is a teacher's guide to life science lab experiences, with two published editions, 2011 and 2014. His passion in the classroom is using technology and the scientific method to help students develop into citizens capable of guiding science research and policy in the future.

Region IV (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD)

Eric Boles

Dexter High School, Dexter, MO

My philosophy on teaching is very simple: I am here to provide my students with the chance to learn how to think critically, think for themselves, and learn to be curious about the world around them. I want them to leave my classroom being consumers of science, and I want them to be skeptical of those who minimize the impact or importance of science. In order for my students to be well informed consumers of the vast amounts of science that is all around them, they have to have the skill sets which will allow them to research, read, decipher, and connect science to their very persons.

I have been married to my wonderful wife Kristi for 12 years and have two beautiful sons (Ryder who is 11 years old and in the 6th grade; Peyton who is 9 years old and in the 4th grade).

Region IV (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD)

Kristin Wheaton

Sturgis Brown High School, Sturgis, SD

I have been teaching at Sturgis Brown High School since 1999. Early on in my career I taught various math classes and have been teaching science since 2000. Currently, I teach AP Biology, Biology, Honors Biology, Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. In 1999, I graduated from Black Hills State University and in 2013 was named the Meade School District Teacher of the Year.

Passionate about finding hands on experiences for students, my biology classes participate in a noxious weeds project. This ongoing project is in conjunction with the US Forest Service. I also help students find research experience through local universities or other local labs. Students will complete this research in conjunction with a class or simply to pursue their love for science.

While not in the classroom, I enjoy gardening, biking, and hiking, or anything I can be doing outdoors.

Region IV (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD)

Lenny Beck

Boone County High School, Florence, KY

Lenny Beck is in his 10th year of teaching high school biology courses, including Environmental Science at Boone County High School in Florence, Kentucky. Lenny earned a B.S in Biological Science and an M.A. in Education from the University of Kentucky. Recently, he finished an M.A. in Zoology through the Global Field Program at Miami (Ohio) University where he participated in field courses in Borneo, Mexico, and the Amazon. He has taken what he has learned from those experiences to create a classroom culture that encourages a spirit of inquiry and empowerment through real-world science experiences and conservation opportunities. Recently, Lenny’s educational philosophies lead him to take students to Mexico through Operation Wallacea. Students worked closely with researchers in the field and participated in research and conservation initiatives.

In his free time he likes to do nature photography and participates in a sustainable agricultural initiative at the Vineyard Church.

Region V (KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)

Rebecca Smith

Orange High School, Chapel Hill, NC

Rebecca earned both her BS and MS degrees in biology from the University of Michigan. She has taught science in public and private schools in both Michigan and Florida, teaching at Orange High School in Hillsborough, NC since 1992. Rebecca has enjoyed teaching all levels of biology and chemistry. Serving as department chair at OHS since 1995, she has implemented Advanced Placement Biology courses in three schools during her career, earning numerous grants to fund equipment purchases.

A member of NABT since 1977 and a longtime member of NSTA, Mrs. Smith has presented to several state and NABT conventions. In 2012, Rebecca earned National Board Certification. She enjoys creating laboratory activities and believes that hands-on learning is crucial. While utilizing Smart Board and computer technology, as well as more traditional means of direct instruction, lab work is an integral part of her teaching.

Region V (KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)

Chanda Jefferson

C.A. Johnson High School, Columbia, SC

Chanda Jefferson received her Bachelors of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in General Education and received her Masters of Teaching Secondary Sciences with emphasis in Biology and General Sciences from the University of South Carolina. She teaches freshmen Biology and A.P Biology classes at C.A. High School in Columbia, South Carolina. Chanda serves as a Richland County School District One science teacher facilitator, Biology after- school coordinator, mentor teacher, and choir director. Chanda’s commitment to inspiring and engaging students has been recognized throughout her school district where she was honored with the Superintendent’s Award of Teaching Excellence.

Chanda uses real- world science experiences to actively engage her classes and inspire students to become future leaders in science and research. “Each day I walk in the classroom, my goal is to make sure all students are 100% engaged and motivated to learn. I always tell them, in life, where you are from does not dictate your destination. As an educator I continuously strive to make my Biology class experiences invigorating, exciting, and unforgettable.”

Region V (KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)

Melinda Carpenter

Nicholas County High School, Summersville, WV

No biography available.

Region V (KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)

Leah McRae

James Clemens High School, Madison, AL

I am fortunate enough to be a science teacher at James Clemens High School in Madison, Alabama. I am currently serving in the Science and Biomed Departments as the Department Chair. Prior to August 2012, I had taught for 20 years at Bob Jones High School which is also in Madison, Alabama. I was part of the Pioneer Faculty at James Clemens High School as of August 2012!

My teaching emphasis includes theoretical as well as practical applications of the subjects I teach. My desire is to make all of my students aware of the current scientific discoveries in biology and to engage them in seeking answers to current problems.

I hold a B. S. degree in Zoology from Auburn University. I also have obtained an M.Ed. in Biology Education from Alabama A & M University. I am Nationally Certified in Young Adult/Adolescent Science Education.

Region VI (AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, PR)

Leslie Taylor

Leading Teacher, Fort Pierce, FL

Leslie Taylor graduated with a B.S. in Biology from Mars Hill College in North Carolina. Following graduation, she worked for the University of North Carolina and the United States Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service. Leslie brings her love of nature, science, conceptual science and her passion for research to her high school classes and curriculum, and prides herself on piquing science career interest in her students while developing environmentally and globally responsible citizens. As Department Chair, IB Coordinator, and Biology teacher of Port Saint Lucie High School, she developed a science club, school beautification groups. Currently she is working as an Instructional Partner – Title I Science support K-12 for schools in turnaround status and completing her M.Ed. Education Leadership.

Leslie is a lifelong learner with a love of non-fiction science text. Outside of the classroom, Leslie is an avid outdoorswoman. She and her husband Earl enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, nature photography and backpacking with their son Skyler. She practices permaculture and explores and embraces nature daily.

Region VI (AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, PR)

Laura Decker

Mandeville High School, Mandeville, LA

No biography available.

Region VI (AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, PR)

Will Dyson

III, Velma Jackson High School, Ridgeland, MS

Will Dyson is a Biology teacher at Velma Jackson High School in Camden, MS where he has worked for the past seven years. He has taught Biology, Pre-Biology, Human A & P and Test Remediation. He’s also taught at Lanier High School in Jackson, MS and Vicksburg High School. Mr Dyson’s love of biology started as a 9th grader when he volunteered and worked for the Jackson Zoological Park. He was also recently appointed as a District Coordinator for the Mississippi Science Teacher Association (MSTA).

Outside of teaching, Mr. Dyson has worked for telecommunications companies AT&T, World Com & SkyTel as a member of management.

Region VI (AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, PR)

Leonard Zechiedrich

Rogers High School, Rogers, AR

No biography available.

Region VII (AR, AZ, NM, OK, TX)

Pam Dooling

Jones High School, Jones, OK

Pam has taught at JHS since 1981, immediately following earning a BA in Education from the University of New Mexico; she earned National Board Certification in 2001. She currently teaches AP Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy/Physiology, Physical Science, and Bioethics; she is Department Chair, sponsor of Planet Earth and NHS, and a teacher-leader for her district. She served as a consultant for the College Board (2001-2012) and continues to work as an AP Reader. She is a member of NABT, OSTA, and NSTA.

Over her 34-year career, Pam has weathered a lot of changes: in pedagogy, technologies, and the loss of her school to fire in 2007. What doesn’t change is her enthusiasm for science and her commitment to her students; in her words, “I don’t have a job, a career, or a profession. I have a calling. I am a teacher.”

Region VII (AR, AZ, NM, OK, TX)

Judy Hunt

Westwood High School, Austin, TX

I was born in Indiana and moved to Dallas when I was 11 where I graduated from Richardson High School. I received a B.A. with honors in Biology from The University of Texas in Austin and stayed here after graduation. Several years later, I returned to school and obtained my secondary science teaching certificate. I taught primarily Biology (on-level, Pre-AP and Pre-IB), Chemistry and Environmental Systems at Westwood High School for 19 years where I served as a member of the Site Based Advisory Committee. I have worked with the Texas Regional Collaborative as a Science Teacher Mentor, been a Cooperating Teacher for the UT Austin UTeach program, and helped with check-in at NABT in Dallas. This past June I retired from full time teaching to be a University Facilitator with the UTeach program supervising and mentoring student teachers.

I am married with three sons and five grandchildren. I enjoy gardening and reading.

Region VII (AR, AZ, NM, OK, TX)

Tamara Pennington

Windsor High School, Windsor, CO

My teaching career started in 1972 at the North Syracuse New York school district. I received my under graduate and masters degrees from the State University of New York. I am currently in my 11th year teaching for the Clark County school district in Las Vegas NV.

Some of my contributions and awards include: “High School Teacher of the Year” award from the Southern Nevada Science Teachers Association 2007-2008; presenting at the Math Science T3 conference - “Making Science Relevant- Hands on Activities-Evaluating the Content Within Student Presentations", creating and sharing student centered curriculum packets for biology (each packet stresses content and conceptual knowledge gained by performing open ended laboratory activities; member of the CCSD Science Foundations Task Force; membership in the Southern Nevada Science Teachers Association; and biology mentor for two counties.

My favorite moments occur when students discover they can be successful and science is relevant.

Region VIII (CO, ID, MT, NV, UT, WY)

Acacia McCombs

New Mexico School for the Arts, Santa Fe, NM

Acacia McCombs teaches biology, anatomy, and integrated science at NM School for the Arts, a magnet high school in Santa Fe, NM. She graduated with a BS in biology from University of South Carolina, and an MA from St. John's College. While teaching at NMSA, she sponsors a Roots and Shoots club, and she has sponsored a finalist team in the 2014 Supercomputing Challenge, Operation Smile, the Student Wellness Team, and Santa Fe Adopt-a-River Program. She was Teacher of the Year at Wagoner Sally High School. Her passion is student engagement through inquiry science and discovery learning.

Region VIII (CO, ID, MT, NV, UT, WY)

Holly Buckley

East Lyme High School, East Lyme, CT

No biography available.

Region VIII (CO, ID, MT, NV, UT, WY)