In teacher Valdine McLean's biology, physics and chemistry classes at Pershing County High School in Lovelock, students learned not only by doing but by teaching as well. Whether using ice cream to teach crystalline structures or launching pumpkins from catapults to teach properties of physics, Ms. McLean motivated students through activity and inquiry. In her "Seeds of Science" program, students perform hands-on science activities, demonstrations and lessons for students at a nearby elementary school, "planting" the notion that science can be fun. She was a master teacher for the National Teacher Training Institute and a past president of the Nevada Science Teachers Association. A former state Teacher of the Year, Ms. McLean received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, and recently earned National Board Certification. Valdine has now retired.
1998 Humboldt State University, B.S.
