Kazoo Faculty since 2014

Email Kate

I am so happy to be back for my ninth year teaching science at Kazoo School! We are in such a wonderful place to explore science and the environment. I am passionate about hands-on learning and making connections with young people.

A little about what got me here- I studied biology at Hope College. As a student, I had a couple of professors who were both inspiring educators and my mentors as a research assistant. This left me with no idea whether I wanted to focus on research or teaching after graduation, so I did both.

I spent many years working in the most amazing places as a wildlife field technician and as a science educator in outdoor schools all over the country. Eventually, I settled in Connecticut where I was a marine science educator and waterfront/sailing director for seven years. In 2014, I moved back to Michigan, closer to my family. When I found Kazoo, I couldn’t believe that I had the opportunity to teach experiential science in a school!

Outside of teaching, I love spending time with my husband, Rob, our son Nolan, and our sweet dog, Charlie. We like to hike and go on walks together, camp, and work in the garden. I love Michigan trips “up north” and to Lake Michigan. We really enjoy our Kalamazoo and Kazoo School communities!

Education

BS Biology, Hope College

Member of the Kazoo Faculty Since 2024

Email Pat

I am happy to return to Kazoo School this year! Over the past eight years I have been part of the Kazoo School Community in various ways: teaching art & photography in the Extended Day & Summer program, as a parent, & as part of the school photography team.

I am a professional photographer and artist in the Kalamazoo Community. My specialties are in art and narrative storytelling. If you are looking a great conversation about TTRPGs(like DnD), science fiction (nerds are my people), books, and music I will be more than happy to chat. I also loved to travel with my family to see and try new things. This gives me experience to apply real world adventures into learning outcomes for all ages.

Education

Associates in Applied Arts and Sciences, Kalamazoo Valley