"Hi, I’m Paul. I have a Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Science in Geology from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. After college, I worked in the Environmental Consulting business for fifteen years. Consulting was always unfulfilling, so I returned to school to get my teaching degree. I have been teaching for over 18 years, and it is my best job ever.

I have a wide variety of experience in teaching science. While I obtained my teaching degree, I tutored high-school students so they could pass their exit-level science exams. My first teaching position was at a high school. While there, I taught On-Level Chemistry, PreAP Chemistry, Physical Science, and Astronomy. Many of the students at my school were English-language learners, so I needed to modify my lessons to help them with complex concepts. At my current school, I have taught general science for 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. I have also taught on-level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy. Additionally, I have taught college-level Chemistry and Earth Science.

I believe the most important part of teaching is to build good relationships with students. Once a student understands that you are there to help and will do whatever it takes for them to succeed, then real teaching can begin. I have used many different teaching methods over the years to accommodate different learning styles. One-on-one teaching is my favorite part of my career since I can customize a lesson for that individual student." less...