To my students,

I am excited to have the opportunity to work with each of you this year. Chemistry is an exciting subject but it also is a challenging one. While I cannot guarantee that you will love chemistry by the end of the academic year, I do hope to be able to help connect chemistry to the world around you and to give you the tools to be successful in your future endeavors.

 My bachelor's degree is in chemistry and was earned from California State University, Northridge. Pursuing chemistry came with many struggles and challenges, but it also provides new skills, opportunities for success, and the development of perseverance (grit).  My aunt, who was a chemistry high school teacher,  encouraged me and helped me to make the decision to become a chemistry teacher. Between chemistry concepts, lab experiments, and experiences in this course, my aim is to give you the skills, knowledge, and grit that can be applied to any situation as well as encourage each of you to pursue your future goals and aspirations. 

I attended Hart High School and Golden Valley (Air Force JROTC). During my senior year, I was the group commander for the program. I am excited to give back to the district that helped shape me into who I am today. 

In my free time, some of the activities I participate in are photography (particularly "emergency photography"), mountain biking, backpacking, hiking and exploring new places. 

I am happy to have you in my class and look forward to an exciting academic year with you. 

Sincerely, 

Mr. Kennedy