Science and engineering classes offer students an exciting opportunity for authentic learning—to learn from failure over and over again, until solutions are reached and final products are made.”

Kelsey’s Story

Kelsey’s curiosity about the natural world and love of the outdoors inspire her on a daily basis. She earned a B.S. in geosciences from The Pennsylvania State University and continued in an academic track by earning her M.S. in geochemistry from the University of Michigan (U of M). During her time at U of M, she researched trace-level mercury pollution in Arctic snow and, while serving as a Graduate Student Instructor for a field course in the Rocky Mountains, discovered her passion for teaching.

Kelsey changed paths and earned her teaching certificate and M.S. in secondary education from The University of Pennsylvania in 2009, with the goal of nurturing young people’s passion for science and ability to get into college. She continued teaching science in the Philadelphia public school system for five years, including four years at George Washington High School (physical science, elective environmental science, and Advanced Placement environmental science courses) and the founding year of The Workshop School, an interdisciplinary, project-based high school.

Knowles Academy Courses Taught
Engaging Math and Science Students in Engineering Design