At the Kingfisher at Bridge Creek football game, Kingfisher teacher Jan Swart was presented a check for Science and Math education for Kingfisher High School by the people of Oklahoma Oil & Natural Gas. Oklahoma State Rep. Brad Boles was also in attendance for the presentation.
This support will be benefiting Kingfisher STEM programs and teachers. Jan is one of the staff members benefiting from the donation.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your hobbies, your passions.
My husband, Aaron, and I have been married for 20 years. We have three children; son Cole (Ali); Macy; and Mady (Korbin) and one granddaughter, Logan. We enjoy traveling and spending time with our family and I enjoy reading any time I get a chance.
What classes do you teach?
I currently teach HS STEM, Anatomy and Physiology, Forensic Science, and AP Biology. But have taught Biology, Chemistry, Physical Science, Physics, and Zoology in the past.
Where did you go to college and what led you into teaching?
I attended Clarendon Junior College, graduating with an Associate of Science in 1992. In 1994, I graduated from Oklahoma Panhandle State University with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences , with a minor in Biology and endorsements in Education and coaching. I received my Masters of Arts in Educational Leadership from Southern Nazarene University in 2015. I am in my 30th year of teaching.
Who mentored you into the educator you are today?
My mentors include Elaine Gwinn who taught physics and had an amazing way of teaching concepts and laboratory skills while engaging students fully. Jim Slater, principal from Fairview, who onlys held staff and students to the highest standard, and my high school science teacher Valerie Shamburg, who is always willing to share ideas, materials and has shown me how we must always continue to learn.
What do you love about teaching?
What I love about teaching is seeing the students improve their problem solving skills and their confidence to work through a problem, whether in the classroom or in life.
What is great about your current school?
The staff and students are the best part of Kingfisher.
The people of Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas are committed to supporting STEM education. Why is teaching Science and Math so important?
Math and Science challenges students. I feel that problem-solving skills and the ability to recognize mistakes and correct them is critical to succeeding in life. I feel that math and science courses provide a safe place for students to develop those skills and I enjoy being a part of that process.
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