I believe the true purpose of a science class is to create a new generation of scientists. I cannot wait to inspire the great physicists of tomorrow.”
Scott’s Story
Scott Murphy grew up in a small town just outside of Philadelphia and has enjoyed learning and helping others to learn from an early age. As an undergraduate, Scott spent three years teaching an introductory seminar for incoming freshmen, and leading discussion and lab sections as a teaching assistant. One of his most rewarding activities has been mentoring younger students in a program designed to promote, develop and retain underrepresented students in mathematical and scientific fields of study.
One of Scott’s greatest passions is basketball, a game he has played for as long as he can remember. An essential part of his commitment to teaching is engaging with his students outside of the classroom, which he accomplishes by continuing to coach basketball and other athletics. Scott earned a bachelor’s degree in physics with honors from the University of Maryland, where he was a Presidential Scholarship recipient, and a master’s degree in education from the University of Maryland in 2009. Scott previously taught at Mastery Charter School: Thomas Campus in Philadelphia, Pa., where he also coached the Science Olympiad team.
In 2009, Scott presented his KSTF portfolio goal on using formative assessment at the spring conference for the Chesapeake section of the American Association of Physics Teachers. That same year, he participated in summer training in support of Project IceCube, the world’s largest telescope built to detect neutrino particles and the biggest research project ever attempted in Antarctica. The training provided Scott and five other KSTF Fellows an opportunity to network with teachers and scientists involved in polar research and become part of the community of people bringing this research to high school science classrooms.
Knowles Academy Courses Taught
Implementing Teacher Coaching to Improve Classroom Practice and Student Learning