Sam Stauch

I have always been a lover of science (perhaps, due to my science teacher mom!). I avoided teaching in my early career as I followed a path in Viticulture research after receiving my undergraduate degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in Agricultural and Environmental Plant Sciences. I quickly learned my love of science was trumped by my love for people and learning. Looking back on my first three years in the classroom I can say without a doubt this is the most challenging and REWARDING career. It has allowed me to share my passion for science while also supporting the next generation of thinkers!

Constellations provides teachers the opportunity to collaborate with other passionate educators while engaging in the doing of science with hard working scientists and researchers. It is not the regular professional development we are often forced to sit through. It is an opportunity to feel like a valuable member of the science community while utilizing the science and engineering practices (that we teach our students) to question and DO SCIENCE!

Participating in science alongside scientists has further developed my understanding of what it means to do science and the importance of inquiry and collaboration. AND allowed me to see and experience some amazing work happening in multiple disciplines within the science community!

Fun fact:  Fun, to me, is being in the sun with a good book and great company!