At Norwalk High School in Norwalk, science teacher Sara Coleman creates innovative, hands-on projects to engage students in learning. In her forensics activity, Ms. Coleman presents an imaginary crime and has students examine evidence, work collaboratively and consult Department of Criminal Investigations officials to identify a suspect. Ms. Coleman developed a Chemistry in the Community curriculum and has been instrumental in expanding the school's science program to include pupils of all ability levels. These efforts have resulted in Norwalk students making excellent gains on the science achievement test. A member of the Building and District Improvement Teams, Ms. Coleman has also been a trainer in portfolio assessments. She facilitates the BEST (Beginning Educator Support Team) Program, which mentors second year teachers, and presents at state and national conferences.
1985 University of Iowa, B.S.
