The Noticers, the Mentors, and Me

Abstract

This chapter reveals the development of a middle school teacher who savors the opportunity to share a long-standing admiration of science. Her ultimate goal is to develop future generations of curious, discerning, and informed world citizens. The author describes how a passion for noticing the world around her was ignited decades ago in her childhood and how mentors in early adulthood guided that passion into a career that she loves. Finally, she explains how the joy of discovery, her curiosity about the natural world, and the lessons she learned through immense support from her mentors combine to create a classroom environment in which all students find science accessible and inviting.