Kathy Jones, science department chair at the Island School in Puhi, was recently selected as a Science Advancement Fellow by leaders at the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG). Jones is one of just 12 teachers recognized for the honor nationally,
Kathy Jones, science department chair at the Island School in Puhi, was recently selected as a Science Advancement Fellow by leaders at the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG).
Jones is one of just 12 teachers recognized for the honor nationally, and will participate in a two-week, science-enrichment program, later this year on Kaua‘i.
This year’s science program will be focusing on native tropical plants which grow here.
“This is really a neat opportunity for me,” Jones said.
“One of my areas of interest is natural selection and the evolution of these native plants who have been here for thousands of years, so it will be neat to see how these native plants have been able to survive for so long. It’s the survival of the fittest for these plants,” she said.
Jones’ educational background is in biology education, but she has a deep interest in tropical botany, she noted.
“This will give me a chance to know more about where I am, and to help my students in their study of biology,” she said.
Jones said she is always taking classes to better herself as a teacher. She is also the advisor for the school’s conservation club.
Dr. Gaugau Tavana, NTBG director of education, recently traveled to the Island School campus in Puhi to present her with a certificate of recognition, and the fellowship to attend this summer.
The program is in conjunction with the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa, and will be taught by top national science professors.
Lanaly Cabalo, lifestyle writer, may be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 237) or lcabalo@kauaipubco.com.
