Traditionally, teachers have been more like gatekeepers to student learning… but instead, teachers need to be facilitators of student learning. A facilitator gently guides the student through the learning process, whereas a gatekeeper holds all the knowledge and controls all information the student receives.”
Sean’s Story
Teaching Discipline
Chemistry
Why Chemistry
“My eight years of laboratory experience as a chemist allows me transfer real world industry knowledge into the classroom. Also, it seems that anecdotally that many adults either loved chemistry or hated in high school. This provides an interesting challenge to me to get more students on board with chemistry.”
Professional Experience
For five years, Sean worked as a wilderness trip leader at Camp Manito-wish YMCA, an outdoor adventure summer camp. This formative leadership building experience played a critical role in his career.
Before beginning a career in education, Sean worked for nine years as a scientist at Pharmaceutical Product Development in Wisconsin.
Sean began teaching at Rhinelander High School during the 2016–2017 school year.
Hobbies
Sean worked as a part time stand up comedian and improvisor for nearly a decade, but now he enjoys going camping and on road trips with his family.
Academic Background
- University of Wisconsin, Madison (Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction)
- University of Wisconsin, Madison (Bachelor of Science in Chemistry)