I taught in grades 1-5 for 21 years, the last 15 at the 5th grade level. For the last 7 years I have been teaching at the University level in a teacher preparation program. I specifically work with STEM majors seeking their secondary teaching certificates. I spend a good part of my job helping students develop hands on inquiry-based math and science lessons for grades 4-9. I also teach the Elementary Science Methods course for future elementary teachers. This is my favorite class to teach! I earned my Doctoral degree with an emphasis on elementary science and professional development in 2015, hence the name "Dr. Jan".
I am a strong supporter of inquiry based learning. Students achieve optimal learning when they are engaged in the construction of knowledge through experimentation and problem solving. I also love any student-centered teaching practice; recently I've developed a fondness for Project Based Learning. Relevance in learning is key for engagement and retention.
University of Idaho Distinguished Fellow for Educational Leadership Pat and Eloise Bieter Doctoral Fellowship
Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies: San Diego State University Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction: San Diego State University Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership: University of Idaho Doctorate in Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Boise State University
I currently live in beautiful Meridian, Idaho. I've been married for 25 years and have 2 teenage boys and a young adult daughter. In my free time I enjoy outdoor concerts, skiiing, boating, and camping. I also love baseball; especially the Red Sox! Go Sox!
Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, Higher Education, Homeschool, Not Grade Specific
English Language Arts, Creative Writing, Writing-Expository, Reading, Specialty, Math, Algebra, Applied Math, Basic Operations, Fractions, Geometry, Graphing, Measurement, Order of Operations, Science, Anatomy, Archaeology, Astronomy, Basic Principles, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environment, Physics, Social Studies, World History, Career and Technical Education, Math Test Prep, Geography, Life Skills, Critical Thinking, For All Subjects, Word Problems, General Science, Physical Science, Problem Solving, Forensics, Writing, Oral Communication, Holidays/Seasonal, Thanksgiving, Christmas-Chanukah-Kwanzaa, Autumn, Halloween, Winter, Earth Day, Informational Text, Test Preparation, Engineering