Science Class

Teaching Background: 

I've been teaching in a nontraditional classroom for years, from teaching English as a Second Language online to working with higher education institutions (Kean University & Quinnipiac University) to working in a variety of aquariums, zoos, nature & science centers (Trailside Nature & Science Center, Bergen County Zoo, Liberty Science Center, Marine Mammal Stranding Center, The Wetlands Institute, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection).  

Education: 

I am a doctoral candidate in the process of earning my Ph.D. in Sustainability Education from Prescott College.  My dissertation focus is on Laudato Si' with Science and STEM education. You can read more about it by clicking here. I have my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (now Stockton University) with a minor in Gerontology and Wildlife and Forestry Conservation.  I hold two Master's degrees, one in Environmental Studies in Writing and Communications from Green Mountain College (now Prescott College) and the other in Education from Kean University.

A little about me...

I've been married for +10 years.  I have a daughter, Aurora "Abby", who attends STS.  I have two dogs (Natalya and Louie) and one cat (Boots).   We have a classroom pet, a Crested Gecko- Pascal.   I enjoy the beach, hiking, reading, baking, and learning.  

Awards & Cool Things:

I have publications in peer-reviewed educational journals listed below: 

• Chen, J. J., Kacerek, C. R., & Ruiz, M. (2023). The letter-naming benchmarks, growth profiles, and the efficacy of an interactive learning app on uppercase letter-name learning for preschool children. International Journal of Technology in Education, 6(1), 113-135. 

• Chen, J. J., & Kacerek, C. R. (2022). Leaders and followers during sociodramatic play: A study of racial/ethnic minority preschool children from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Journal of Research in Childhood Education, 36(3), 517-540. 

• Kacerek, C. R. (2012). Environmental Education Programs in Watchung Reservation, New Jersey (Doctoral dissertation, Green Mountain College). 

• 2025: Species on the Edge for 1st place in Union County.  Species on the Edge is sponsored by Conserve Wildlife, which highlights endangered or threatened animals in New Jersey through an essay and artwork contest (only open to 5th graders).  

• 2022:  Species on the Edge for both 1st & 2nd place in Union County.  Species on the Edge is sponsored by Conserve Wildlife, which highlights endangered or threatened animals in New Jersey through an essay and artwork contest (only open to 5th graders).  

• 2020-2021 Regional winner (Coach) for Toshiba & National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) ExploraVision STEM competition for the 2020-2021 year.