“I have to make science more than the book,” said Dave Gamon, who teaches life science at Northwood Middle School in Spokane, Wash. And considering his classroom is home to a chinchilla, bearded dragon, frogs, birds and tropical fish, it sounds like he is doing just that. Gamon is one of nine teachers to win the 2009 Regional Teacher of the Year Award.

Gamon is fascinated by science and has fun in the classroom. And apparently lots of it, “I’m like a big kid,” said Gamon, who calls himself an engaging person with an appreciation for the world around him. Gamon said he couldn’t imagine teaching something that he didn’t enjoy.

“For it to be fun for the students, it has to be fun for the teacher,” said Gamon, who added, “if a teacher isn’t enjoying what subject their teaching, then neither will the kids.”

Gamon said it is his job to bring the world of science to his students. “I want them to see life sciences the moment they walk through the door,” said Gamon who focuses on making his classroom “alive” by having a lot of critters and colorful murals. Staying true to this belief, he occasionally brings in an outside expert as an additional resource, such as a genetic counselor who explains the fertility process to students. Stressing the importance of bringing many resources into the classroom, Gamon also incorporates visual communications with his lessons to keep his students engaged.

Gamon earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, and has taught science for the past thirteen years. When he is not spending time with his family or playing sports outdoors, you can bet he is bringing science to life in his classroom. “It’s a real gift to be able to love what you’re doing,” said Gamon. 

The Teacher of the Year Award is sponsored by many organizations, including Partnership for Learning, PEMCO, and many representatives from several different organizations select the winners. Washington’s 2009 Teacher of the Year recipient was Susan Johnson. As a regional winner, Gamon can expect to attend conferences, share his expertise with the community, and advocate for educational issues.

One resource to help Gamon and other Washington science teachers make science “alive” and rigorous is the Pacific Science Center’s LASER program’s inquiry-based curriculum and professional development.  Evaluations show that LASER students are more excited about science and posting higher WASL scores.