Ms. Gramajo- 7th Grade Science,  Biology and Biotechnology Teacher and  Science Bowl Coach, Portola Highly Gifted Magnet

Hello! My name is Ms. Gramajo, and I teach 7th-grade Science (Biology) and Biotechnology. I also serve as the Science Fair Coordinator and Science Bowl coach. I have been a science educator for 23 years, and I’m passionate about helping students connect science to the real world, nurturing their curiosity, and preparing them for future STEM pathways.

I earned my Master’s Degree in Biology/Neurobiology from California State University, Los Angeles, where I taught introductory biology lab to incoming freshmen. From there, I transitioned to high school, where I taught chemistry, physics, and biology. My love for science and teaching has guided me to earn multiple credentials, including Secondary Science, a CTE credential in Health Science and Medical Technology, and a specialist certification in mild to moderate special education.

My teaching philosophy centers on preparing students for an ever-changing world. As a Biology and Biotechnology teacher, I believe learning should reflect the investigative nature of the life sciences—driven by curiosity, grounded in evidence, and connected to real-world applications. Biology gives students a foundation for understanding living systems, while biotechnology empowers them to use that knowledge to innovate, solve problems, and address global challenges. My goal is to guide students as active participants in scientific discovery rather than passive learners.

I strive to create a classroom where students learn by doing: conducting experiments, analyzing data, and practicing techniques that mirror modern biological and biotechnological research. Through hands-on inquiry, collaboration, and problem-based learning, students build both technical proficiency and scientific reasoning. Whether extracting DNA, modeling genetic engineering, or exploring ecological interactions, they gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and interconnectedness of life.