Mr. Schmidt Physics & Chemistry Teacher

With twelve years of dedication to Gaspar de Portola Middle School's Highly Gifted program, I bring a unique blend of creativity and scientific rigor to advanced science education. My unconventional path to teaching—beginning with a Bachelor's degree in Theatre Performance and minor in Dance at Missouri State University before earning my Master's in Education at National University—enriches my approach to making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for exceptional young minds.

I guide highly gifted 8th graders through accelerated high school physics and chemistry curriculum, incorporating Kaplan's Depth and Complexity framework to challenge students beyond traditional boundaries. My classroom serves as both a laboratory and innovation space where students tackle real-world problems through hands-on engineering projects and collaborative teamwork.

My teaching philosophy centers on advancing each student's journey in scientific discovery while developing practical problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Through scaffolded instruction and constructive collaboration, I help students connect theoretical knowledge to real-world applications, preparing them not just for academic success, but for meaningful contributions to tomorrow's scientific challenges.

I hold teaching credentials in Secondary Science, Physics, and Chemistry, and continue to be inspired daily by the curiosity and brilliance of my students.