BFA Fairfax is pleased to welcome Laura Heil to the high school science department. Laura is a long-term substitute for a teacher on leave until mid-March. She will work closely with the Freshman Core team and teach Biology. We asked Laura a few questions to help us get to know her.
Where is your hometown?
Hudson Falls, New York
Where did you go to college?
St. Michael’s College for B.S., Montana State University for M.S.
What were you doing before coming to BFA Fairfax?
I just completed my student teaching at U-32 High School in East Montpelier with 9th, 10th, and 12th graders.
What is your favorite science?
Ecology is my favorite field of science.
What’s your favorite food?
My favorite food changes frequently, but at the moment I really enjoy eating homemade ramen.
Any interesting facts about you that you’d like to share?
My favorite science experience is getting to touch a cheetah! I was in Zambia visiting a friend who was doing ecological research on large carnivores, and their team was working on collaring the cheetah to be able to radio track it. Once they found the animal, they darted the cheetah to tranquilize her, then put the collar on her and collected additional information. I was lucky enough to be on spotlight duty, which means I scanned the surrounding area to make sure no other animals were approaching while the field team was working with the cheetah.
What do you like to do outside of school?
I love most activities that allow me to be outside. This includes hiking, rock climbing, skiing, backpacking, and gardening.
What are your first impressions of BFA?
Everyone at this school seems very comfortable in their community and this feeling has been extended gracefully to me as a new member of this community. Thank you!!!!
The FWSU Story 