Circa August 2024
Bottom-Top, L-R:
Dr. Tim Donahue, Hillary Gawne, Adam Rotche, and Brandon Gooss
David Smail, Heather Kemmerly, William Ryba, and Drew Austen
David Barnes, William Cottrell, Jennifer Todd, and Mark Sailer
The Science Department enthusiastically welcomed three new colleagues this year: Will Cottrell, William Ryba, and Dave Smail.
Will Cottrell teaches both Molecular Biology and Anatomy & Physiology. He brings energy and enthusiasm for learning and teaching in both the classroom and the workroom. Being a dedicated triathlete, he helped coach Cross Country and also helps to sponsor the Red Cross Club.
William Ryba teaches both Analytical Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry Plus, in addition to coaching Cross Country and Indoor & Outdoor Track. He is enjoying the opportunity to use a variety of exploratory lab activities and summative lab projects to improve learning experiences in the classroom.
Dave Smail teaches Molecular Biology, Analytical Chemistry, and AP Biology. He is enjoying the new adventure of teaching AP Biology and using case studies to provide students with enriching learning experiences. He next looks forward to integrating more inquiry-based labs in the classroom.
The biology team is led by Dave Barnes. In addition to teaching Molecular Biology, Dave also teaches AP Environmental Science. In both courses, he maximizes student-centered learning opportunities that are hands-on, incorporate innovative use of technology, or make use of relevant current events. Dave also provides learning opportunities outside of the classroom and has traveled abroad with students to both Costa Rica and Panama. He is currently planning an interdisciplinary experience for students in Belize during the spring break of 2026.
Adam Rotche is an integral member of the biology team. His passion lies in ecology and environmental interdisciplinary studies. In addition to teaching a seminar, Wilderness and the American Mind, Adam also developed and is teaching a brand-new course, Becoming a Naturalist, a Virginia ecology course. Adam is an integral member of our school community serving as the head coach of our Quiz Bowl team.
Jennifer Todd teaches AP Chemistry and is the Science Department Chair. In her 3rd year of being department chair, she has worked to provide experienced teachers and new teachers opportunities to collaborate to align curriculum and to share instructional tools. She has also actively supported teachers in their efforts to create new science electives in multiple disciplines and of a variety of challenge levels to meet the needs of a diverse group of learners.
In addition to teaching both Analytical Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry Plus, Hillary Gawne developed a post-AP Chemistry course based on her areas of interest and expertise. She is now in her second year of providing a robust learning experience for advanced STEM students in Introduction to Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry. Hillary is also the sponsor of the National Honor Society.
Mark Sailer has been part of the science team for 10 years. This year he is teaching primarily Honors Physics and has enjoyed teaching AP Physics 1 for the first time. Mark is a valuable member of the school community and is the lead sponsor of the MLWGS Robotics team. Outside of his school commitments, Mark is a dedicated musician and a member of a handbell choir, a vocal choir, and a brass group.
In addition to teaching AP Physics 1, Brandon Gooss developed and is teaching a brand-new course, Automotive Concepts and Engineering, familiarly known as ACE. Through that course, Brandon has developed a relationship with Midas of Richmond, who has provided learning opportunities for students outside of the classroom and has donated car parts for the students to work on and learn from in the classroom. Brandon also sponsors TSA, the Technology Student Association. No matter where you see Brandon, he is excited to tinker and learn with the students while working on solutions to real-world problems.
In addition to teaching math, Heather Kemmerly continues to engage students in project-based learning in Engineering. On any given day, her students may be building and testing bridges or designing their own inventions using CAD (computer-aided design) software.
VCU Physiological Psychology is taught by Dr. Tim Donahue. In this course, Tim teaches students how the brain and neurological system work from a biological perspective. Not only does Tim share his enthusiasm for learning and psychology through his exciting lectures, but he also leads them through hands-on activities such as dissecting sheep brains.
As a department, we continue to cherish our work experiences with Drew Austen, who passed away earlier this year. Drew was an invaluable member of the team, always excited and enthusiastic about learning and growing with both colleagues and students. His love of learning and teaching was infectious to all. Despite having only been a part of MLWGS Science for three school years, he will have a lasting impact on us all.
We were excited to welcome Olga Plotnikov to the team for the rest of this year. Olga is no stranger to MLWGS as an alumni parent. Additionally, Olga has immense expertise in physics and valuable experience teaching young scientists. We are more than grateful that Olga was willing to join our team at a time of great need.
