Teacher Feature: Nature Lover Shares Knowledge with OHS Students

A hike helped determine Laura Bennett's future.

During a nature walk with friends in Columbia, MO, Bennett would point out trees and wildlife, and describe the characteristics of each to her friends. Then, she would stop and quiz her friends on what she had just taught them.

"It was a sign that maybe I should be a teacher," Bennett said as she walks her two daschunds.

Bennett began teaching science at in August. She graduated from the University of Missouri in 2003 with a degree in natural resources. Currently, she's working on her Masters degree in secondary education at the University of Missouri- St. Louis.

Her choice to study natural resources, Bennett said, was somewhat random. She has always been interested in ecology and the life sciences.

“I have a love for nature,” she said.

Recently, Bennett has joined with her fellow teachers to build what she wants to be, a solid, meaningful curriculum.

“I want a curriculum that helps students connect with the world,” Bennett said. “One in which they can connect with science, because science is all around them.”

Because science and nature are outside of the classroom, Bennett said she would like her students to get fresh air during class time.

“My biggest challenge is getting every student to fully appreciate and involved in the curriculum,” she said.

Before coming to Oakville, Bennett  taught chemistry and earth sciences at University City High School for two years. Although Bennett admits teaching is challenging, she said it reaps awards when she sees her students succeed.

“I’m confident in the group of students I’ll have this year,” Bennett said. “This should be an exciting year.”

Aside from teaching, Bennett enjoys art, cooking with fresh produce and kayaking in the Missouri Ozark rivers. Her dogs also keep her busy. They go with her to enjoy the outdoors, and Bennett teaches them obedience and agility training.