I think that teachers should be role models and mentors for their students. In the classroom, students are learning more than just content. They also learn life skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Teachers help to model and foster these skills. They also help prepare their students and mentor them through a critical time in their lives, when they are transitioning to college or career paths.”

Spencer’s Story

Teaching Discipline

Chemistry

Why Chemistry

“Chemistry is involved in so much of our everyday lives, and it can help explain different phenomena and make sense of the world around us. I want to help ‘rebrand’ chemistry and help students be excited about the subject and learn the diversity of its applications in the real world.”

Professional Experience

During her undergraduate studies, Spencer spent time doing research within the field of Alzheimer’s disease development. She was awarded an internship at the Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience at the University of Florida, as well as an internship at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University. She performed graduate research on the effects of a harmful algal bloom on the development of medaka fish. Spencer has worked as a water quality program assistant educator for the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County in Northport, New York, for the past six years, where she creates and presents educational programs about their local marine environment.

Spencer will begin her first year of teaching chemistry at Miller Place High School in Miller Place, New York, during the 2023–2024 school year. 

Hobbies

In her free time, Spencer enjoys knitting and spending time with her husband and dog on the beach, and continues her passion for marine sciences by continuously educating herself on and incorporating sustainability into her teaching lessons. 

Academic Background 

  • SUNY Oswego (Bachelor of Science in Chemistry)
  • Stony Brook University (Master of Science in Marine Science and Master of Arts in Teaching Chemistry)