James+Quebedeaux

=James Quebedeaux's Reflection for The Ensworth School Math Science Committee=

Date:
===My Position at The Ensworth School: Briefly describe your role at The Ensworth school here. For example: High School Science Teacher, 9th grade Level 1 Science (Biology, Chemistry), 10th grade Level 2 Science (Chemistry)===

I am a high school science teacher. I teach 9th grade Level 1 Science (Chemistry and Physics) as well as 10th grade Level 2 Science (Chemistry and Physics).

I have discussed this topic with many science teachers as well as searched the internet for "best science/math schools". From this research, I think that the best science/math schools are schools that provide learning opportunities outside of the standard curriculum (extra-curricular).

Some examples are: 1) Students presenting papers at the Junior Science Academy. 2) Students participating in the Science Quiz Bowl. 3) Students participating in research opportunities with local universities.

I have noticed that all of these activities are competitive and provide opportunities to get the school's name "in the news". Personally, I feel that community perception influences the title of "best science/math school" a little more than it should. However, the frequency that our program is presented in a positive light in the community is directly related to the level (and quality) of participation in such events.