Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Peterson
What is your role at Athens and how long have you been here?
Since my start in 2005, I have taught a number of courses based in the studies of Biology and Chemistry. Currently, in my 20th year at Athens, I am teaching ESHI (Environmental Science Human Impact), Chemistry II, and GBBE (Genetics, Bacteriology, Biotechnology, & Embryology). In addition to this, I am the sponsor of the Hospital Heroes & Medical Club and the co-advisor of the HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) Club. I also volunteer my free time to mentor AP Research students conducting scientific projects.
What is your educational background?
I began my undergraduate study of Biology and Chemistry at Central Michigan University and was a proud member of the Women’s Soccer Team from 1999–2002… Fire Up Chips! Next, I transferred to Oakland University, where I completed my secondary teaching certification and graduated with a Biology major and Chemistry minor in 2004. Since then, I have earned a Master’s degree in the Teaching of Secondary Science from Lawrence Technological University and completed a number of additional courses to maintain my teaching certification.
What do you enjoy most about working with our students and staff?
The students and staff of Athens High School are the best of the best!! I am truly blessed to be a member of this Red Hawk community.
My absolute favorite moments of teaching are found working with students in the laboratory! I love pushing them to challenge facts and use their knowledge in creative ways to solve problems. Most of all, I love making discoveries alongside my students.
What is one accomplishment or part of your work you are most proud of?
I pride myself on creating real-world learning experiences in my classroom that reflect current research and industry best practices. For example, in GBBE, my colleagues and I rewrote a graduate-level gene selection, plasmid ligation, and transformation laboratory for our students to complete during our study of biotechnology. I truly believe that laboratory experiences such as these set students up for success in their future coursework at Athens and beyond.
What is something you enjoy outside of school (hobby, interest, or fun fact)?
My household loves soccer! I love cheering on my two daughters as they compete at a high level. Additionally, I am a proud board member of the Rochester Soccer Club. I enjoy the opportunities I have to volunteer and even coach youth teams on occasion.
What makes the Athens community special to you?
At Athens, there is something for everyone! From athletics to academics and everything in between, there exists a supportive group of people for every individual to find community with. We might be collectively separate in interests or culture, but we all come together to form the most uniquely diverse Athens community.
