“The students’ work in the arts blows me away. I am continually impressed and moved by their creativity, discipline, and talent.”
-Acacia McCombs
Above: Science teacher Acacia McCombs is recognized at an NMSA assembly for receiving the 2014 Outstanding Biology Teacher Award for New Mexico (National Association of Biology Teachers)
NMSA science teacher Acacia McCombs is consistently finding new ways to be involved with student activities and organizations at the school. As the sponsor of the Santa Fe Chapter of Roots & Shoots (a youth-led community action and learning program from the Jane Goodall Institute), she and student participants ran a blanket drive for the local animal shelter, along with a coin drive fundraiser. The group presented to Jane Goodall, who came to
visit in September!
This combination of education and science is perfect for Acacia, who started her career in biology contemplating working at a lab. In fact, she spent the summer after graduating college working in a genetics lab. “although I
learned a lot, I realized lab work was not the career I wanted. I was led to teach because I wanted to stay involved with science, and I wanted to share that knowledge with others. I love teaching and finding ways to improve
education. It is never boring!”
Working at NMSA has the added dynamic of students pursuing and cultivating different art forms, as well as academic studies. “…Spending time with young people is energizing and rewarding, and I love my own science subject,” says Acacia, “but the students’ work in the arts blows me away. I am continually impressed and moved by their creativity, discipline, and talent.”
Excitingly, she received the 2014 Outstanding Biology Teacher Award for New Mexico by the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT)! NABT annually recognizes one biology teacher from each of the 50 states and territories of the United States, as well as Canada. Both Ms. McCombs and NMSA received award certificates, as well as an invitation to a special award luncheon at the NABT Professional Development Conference in November 2014 in Cleveland, OH. “The NABT conference is the science prom. It’s the highlight of my year. I always meet incredible teachers, learn about fantastic resources, and hear amazing keynotes. So to attend this year and receive an award was a great honor. I was proud to represent NMSA and NM!”
Be sure to join us on
May 22, 2015
for ARTSPRING
An array of inspiring performances and a visual arts exhibition by NMSA students!