I believe the role of a teacher is to work collectively with students to realize their own and their students’ potential, and to use this potential to better their communities.”

Jody’s Story

Teaching Discipline

Earth Science

Why Earth Science

“Growing up in San Francisco, I was fascinated by the topography around me and wanted to better understand how the land was shaped. Spending time outside facilitated my understanding of the geologic history of the area, and my interest in this subject never slowed.”

Professional Experience

As an undergraduate, Jody interned at the United States Geological Survey in Menlo Park, California, where she studied different forms of arsenic in the soil. Also, Jody researched past climates on the Tibetan Plateau using organic biomarkers in lake sediments. These reconstructions of past climates help predict future climates in the region.

She began teaching at Balboa High School during the 2016–2017 school year as part of the Wilderness Arts and Literacy Collaborative, an academic program focused on supporting the development of historically underserved youth into environmental stewards through field experiences.

Volunteer Experience

Jody volunteered at the California Academy of Science as a docent.

Hobbies

Jody enjoys hiking, running, playing soccer, reading, and being outside.

Academic Background

  • Stanford University (Master of Arts in Education)
  • Brown University (Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences)