top of page
Photo of Dr. Cooper

About Me

I’ve taught a wide range of science courses in diverse schools and have spent over 20 years helping students and teachers explore the wonders of science. With experience in traditional, charter, vocational, and Montessori settings, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for different learning styles and teaching philosophies.

​

My passion is creating meaningful, ready-to-use resources that help teachers bring science to life. I design materials that support learning in environmental and climate science, as well as general science topics such as chemistry and earth science. I also create tools to help students build essential study habits—like weekly check-ins and reflections—that encourage ownership of their learning.

​

Before becoming an educator, I earned my doctorate in geology and worked for the U.S. Department of Energy as manager of volcanic studies on the Yucca Mountain project. That experience reinforced the importance of clear, evidence-based science communication—something I strive to bring into every resource I create.

​

Today, my goal is to empower teachers to make science accessible, engaging, and relevant—whether they’re helping students explore the periodic table or take action on climate change.

 

​I was raised in Cleveland, Ohio and have also lived in Nevada, North Carolina, and New Jersey.  I like to hike, swim, boat, read, sing, play the piano, and spend time with my family.

Education

15_edited_edited.png

Graduate certificate in secondary education

I obtained a graduate certificate in teaching for middle grades science and math and high school science.  

Ph.D., M.Sc. , B.A. Geology

I began my freshman year as a chemistry major and changed in the middle of my sophomore year to geology.  I still love chemistry! I completed a M.Sc. and Ph.D, researching and investigating the geochemistry and eruptive history of volcanoes in Arizona and New Mexico.

 Experience

16_edited.png

Instructional Design​

Subject to Climate - Teacher Community Content Creator

  • Unit and lesson plan creator​

​​

Teaching and Tutoring​

Tutored by Teachers - High dosage virtual tutoring with small groups

  • Algebra I grade 9

  • Integrated math grade 9

  • SAT prep

​​

Bedminster Township School, Bedminster New Jersey

  • 7th and 8th grade science teacher

  • Advisor for Sustainable Jersey competition

​

Central Jersey College Prep Charter School, Somerset, New Jersey

  • AP Environmental Science

  • Geology 101 - Dual enrollement with Raritan Valley Community College  

  • 8th grade science

  • 6th grade science

​

Warren County Technical High School, Washington, New Jersey

  • Earth Science 

  • Environmental Science 

  • Honors environmental science 

​

Mallard Creek High School, Charlotte, North Carolina

  • AP Environmental Science

  • Earth Science and Environmental Science

  • Honors Earth and Environmental Science

  • Honors Anatomy and Physiology

  • Astronomy

​

Countryside Montessori School, Charlotte, North Carolina

  • 7th and 8th grade science

  • 8th grade Algebra I

  • Advisor for group of 12-15 students

Industry

U.S. Department of Energy Yucca Mountain Site Characterization Office, Las Vegas, Nevada​

  • Managed interactions with the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and NRC Advisory Committee on Nuclear Waste.

  • Directed volcanism site characterization, managing subcontractors, deliverables, reviews, and fieldwork oversight.

  • Oversaw semi-annual progress reports, site suitability task force, and compliance with federal laws.

  • Led site tours and advocated at public town halls and government meetings to communicate technical findings and project updates.

bottom of page