BIOLOGY/CHEMISTRY| COPPER HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

"Mary is one of the hardest working teachers in our building, She is originally from very rural area of Wyoming. As she grew up she found a love for science and how things work. Mary is very devoted to her students, you can usually see her white van in the parking lot well after everyone has left. Her students are always doing labs and activities to learn and she has helped instill that belief into the science department at Copper Hills High School."

• Phillip Johnson, Science Dept. Chair at CHHS

'Mary is one of the hardest working teachers at Copper Hills High, She is originally from a very rural area of Wyoming. As she grew up she found a love for science and how things work. Mary is very devoted to her students, you can usually see her white van in the parking lot well after everyone has left. Her students are always doing labs and activities to learn and she has helped instill that belief into the science department at Copper Hills High School.

Mary is a dedicated educator, a collaborative Grizzly, and she is never too busy to help someone. As a digital and instructional coach at CHHS, Mary is quick to respond and willingly shares her knowledge and expertise with others. Mary is also patient as a digital/instructional coach and likewise, in her classroom, she is patient and encouraging with her students. Mary goes above-and-beyond to ensure her students have engaging labs that not only meet the standards, but also provide students with ways to connect their labs to the real-world. Some of our science students recently prepared for our annual homecoming tradition "The Burning of the CH," under the direction of Mary. She ensured things were done safely and accurately so that the night of our pep rally, the CH burned brightly. What a great way for our science students to be involved, learn and quite literally shine! Mary's passion and dedication is visible and serves as an example for all who know her.

• Rae Garrison, Principal at CHHS

Mary's knowledge, problem-solving, and kindness make her an ideal coach and teammate. She is supportive and thoughtful. Mary is a valued member of her PLC.

What do you love about science teaching or what made you want to be a science teacher? 

I had really great science teachers when I was in high school who took us out into the field and showed us science. It was always hands-on. I excelled at that. I was constantly being teased at how poor we were or how "stupid I was" because I wore old clothes. I found that with science I could level the field and show that it is useful for anyone, anywhere. I took Engineering in College and it was easy in Chemistry because my teacher taught us industry standards. 

I try to help those students who have a difficult time with learning because of their circumstances because I know how hard it is to have to work nearly full-time, go to school full-time, and then take care of the home in between. Persistence and hard work can overcome many obstacles. I love to help the underdogs. I also love to see the spark in all of the students that "catch on". We have so much fun doing labs and activities. 

What are some of your hobbies and/or how do you like to spend your time outside of teaching? 

My hobbies are sand-blasting carving etching on glass and carving wood. I have so many other things I like to do because I love to do life. I take care of my Mom, our two dogs, and the house. 

What's the best advice or mantra you live by for your teaching? 

My mantra is to "Never Give Up, and Enjoy the Road" but you can change your mind and go a different direction and find new things too. 

Some things about the CH burning: we have been turning it Blue and Green since about 25 years ago. We decided after I suggested that it needed to be green/blue for the color of burning copper our school colors. We use special chemicals to turn the flames colors. We then add a special alcohol to be able to burn it. The timing needs to be correct to work. The conditions in the weather need to be accounted for. The CH has morphed over the years and this year it was wonderful.

BYU will soon have available kits that include rock samples and lessons that are SEEd and NGSS-based. These boxes can be kept in your classroom for a couple of weeks while you teach and returned when you are finished. 

Date available: October 15th
To reserve contact Keryn Ross (keryn.ross@byu.edu)