“I think it’s just hugely valuable to stay current on what is happening in the world and in the industry itself,” chemistry teacher Shelly Holmberg said.
Holmberg, who has been teaching chemistry for 31 years, uses not only her knowledge and experience to immerse her students in chemistry, but also taps into a program called American Chemical Society (ACS). ACS is a non-profit organization committed to improving lives through chemistry. Their mission is to advance knowledge, empower a global community and champion scientific integrity.
“It’s a professional site to give professional chemists more resources that they can use in the job. They have a whole separate thing specifically for teachers,” Holmberg explained.
ACS has a program for teachers that helps support teaching and learning for students of all ages through grants and scholarships. Holmberg explained that she receives a grant by working with Todd Williams, a retired 3M scientist and Holmberg’s science coach. Holmberg was introduced to Williams through a program with ACS.
With this grant, Holmberg explained “it allows me to buy more chemicals and supplies,” which she uses for demonstrations in her classes.
Williams has helped Holmberg in so many ways. He assists Holmberg with setting up demonstrations, offering one-on-one tutoring with students and providing an expanded understanding to the activities/demonstrations Holmberg does within her classes. Williams has made it his mission to help students through their studies of chemistry.
Williams explained that one of his reasons for becoming a science coach was to help students grow intellectually. He wants to deepen their understanding of chemistry in the world, even if they don’t pursue it as a career.
Holmberg uses ACS not only as a tool for teaching, but also to stay current on what is going on in the chemistry industry. Holmberg said that working with Williams has been a valuable experience. Williams has not only helped Holmberg with her students but has allowed her the opportunity to continue growing her chemistry knowledge.
“Mr. Williams provides me a chance to learn more about chemistry from the industry perspective, rather than a teacher perspective,” Holmberg said.
When speaking with students, there is an overwhelming amount of positivity for Holmberg’s classes. Students find her teaching helpful and sincere.
Junior Lydia Yunke said that she has had a wonderful experience in chemistry so far this year. She explained she is really glad that Holmberg is her chemistry teacher.
It is easy to see, through the collaboration with Williams and the ACS that Holmberg still has that excitement for chemistry that makes her classes engaging and genuine. Holmberg is not just teaching her students, she is learning alongside them.
