“Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in.” Martin Luther King, Jr.
For our New Year Teacher Spotlight, we interviewed Michelle LaFevre-Bernt or Dr. LB.
What grade(s) are you currently teaching?
9th grade AVID, 11 & 12 Biotech 1 & 2
What do you enjoy most about teaching science?
Seeing students engaging in critical thinking, asking questions and applying their knowledge to perform “real world” scientific tasks
What do you enjoy the least?
Nothing! OK, maybe picking yukky things out of the lab sink drains?
What’s your favorite element?
Bismuth.
What do you love most about working at San Marin?
The people who work here, certificated and classified staff, work so hard to ensure the academic success and emotional and social well-being of our students. I am very fortunate to work beside such fine people.
Do you remember your first class? What was it like?
My first year teaching I was a long term sub and taught one biology class for the entire year. I fell in love with teaching that year. The next year I was teaching chemistry and AP chemistry full time as an intern, going to SSU for my credential nights and summer break. I admit I cried a couple of times that year!
What’s your most memorable teaching moment?
Every day is memorable. There is never a dull day in teaching. My most memorable moments happen when I feel like I am positively affecting my students’ lives.
What was your favorite subject in High School?
My friends say I always loved science, but I really loved French (especially) and English.
What was your least favorite subject in High School?
Math! Trigonometry/Precalculus in particular.
What’s your favorite thing to do outside of San Marin?
Hiking, camping, backpacking, trail running, gardening, cooking, making cheese and preserving food.