At Billings West High School in Billings, physics teacher Paul Swenson sees himself not as a lecturer but as a partner and a resource in his students' learning. His project-oriented, hands-on curriculum helps students apply physics principles to real-world situations. As a result, enrollment in science electives is high and many of his students go on to major in science and physics in college. Mr. Swenson shares lessons and strategies with other science teachers in the district, particularly in the area of technology. He played a key role in developing Montana State University's Systemic Initiative for Montana Mathematics and Science (SIMMS). Mr. Swenson has earned National Board Certification and a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
1988 Stanford University, M.S.
