Welcome to Science Lab!
Experience and Education
2024-2025 will be Mrs. Minarik's sixteenth year teaching science in the Del Mar Union School District. She is excited to be part of the Del Mar Heights and Ocean Air families this year. She loves working with young scientists and engineers because they arrive curious, enthusiastic, and ready to explore!
Background
While at Penn State working on her B.S. and teaching credential, Mrs. Minarik spent a semester working in a biology lab. She assisted in the development of a real-time biomonitoring system using freshwater mussels. After earning her degree, she taught biology, physical science, and environmental science for a high school in Pennsylvania. Three years later, she moved to California and accepted a position teaching biology for Poway Unified School District. When her first child was born, she decided to stay home for a few years to be with her family. When her third child started kindergarten, she returned to work as the Del Mar Heights STEAM+ Science Teacher.
Degrees
Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, Biology and General Science Options, Penn State
Masters of Arts in Teaching with Specialization in Teaching Mathematics, National University
Graduate Certificate in STEM Education, Columbia University/NASA
Credentials
Single Subject Teaching Credential, Biological Sciences
Introductory Science Supplemental Authorization
CLAD
Contact
kminarik@dmusd.org (preferred)
(858) 481-4040 X 3968 Ocean Air
(858) 755-9367 X 3373 Del Mar Heights
Educational Philosophy &
What to Expect in STEAM+ Science
I believe that curiosity, agency, and positive relationships are essential elements of a successful classroom. During STEAM+ Science, students will assume the roles of scientists and engineers as they investigate puzzling phenomena and engineer solutions to problems. The infographic, "A New Vision for Science Education" by the National Research Council (2015) describes the types of activities our young scientists and engineers will do.
Life Outside of School
I moved to the San Diego area in 1996. I have three children, ages 20, 23, and 25. I enjoy hiking, swimming, and walking my dog Indiana at the beach. One of my favorite locations for a nature walk is San Elijo Lagoon. It's a great spot for bird watching. Sometimes I don't have to go the lagoon to see interesting birds. They visit my driveway! Can you identify the bird in the photo using this animal guide ?
