Mastering a physics class means learning problem-solving skills that all students will be able to apply in life, not just those continuing in science.”
Heather’s Story
Heather Hotchkiss wanted to be a teacher for as long as she can remember. As a student at Fairport High School in Fairport, New York, Heather was fascinated with figuring out how to use the ways that individuals think to explain mathematical concepts to them in more intuitive ways. When she discovered physics had all the problem solving she loved about math, connected to real world applications, she realized that was what she wanted to teach.
Heather is now an accomplished physics educator and educational leader with over a decade of experience in secondary science instruction. A National Board-Certified Teacher in Physics, she now splits time between teaching introductory physics, and leading her department as the Department Head for Science, Technology and Engineering at Newton North High School in Newton, MA. Heather’s expertise and dedication have been recognized through various honors, including the Fairfax County Outstanding Teacher Award, a Knowles Teaching Fellowship and a Teach Plus Teaching Policy Fellowship.
Beyond the classroom, Heather has demonstrated a strong commitment to educational leadership and professional development. She has led numerous initiatives in her school communities including those facilitating strong collaborative teams, and those on grading reform. In the Knowles community, she has been a Knowles Academy Instructor for the Pattern Physics course and collaborated on three Kaleidoscope pieces for the Knowles publication. With a passion for fostering scientific curiosity and critical thinking, Heather continues to shape the future of science education by empowering both students and educators alike.