I grew up in an extended family that is almost entirely involved in education. This has definitely influenced my own decision to become a teacher.”

Katherine’s Story

Coming from a family of educators in the humanities, Katherine Pointer was the first to find her calling in the natural sciences.  She was inspired in high school by her chemistry class and her teacher. “She instilled within me a love of the subject matter and also demonstrated how a teacher can impact the lives of students.”  Katie graduated summa cum laude from Westmont College in Santa Barbara with a BS in chemistry. “My time there both affirmed my love of science and deepened my commitment to teaching.”

While at Westmont, Katie tutored other students and was a laboratory assistant for general and organic chemistry.  She also participated in student research, working with a professor during the summer and the academic year; and assisted in the publication of two chemistry textbooks authored by a member of the department.

After graduating, she taught a conceptual chemistry course at her alma mater, ran the general chemistry lab, and maintained the department’s inventory. “This time confirmed that, in spite of its difficulties, teaching is incredibly rewarding.” She went on to pursue her teaching credentials and her master’s degree in education at University of California-Santa Barbara.

Katie teaches chemistry at Laguna Blanca School, a private K-12 school in Santa Barbara. She also loves art history, and enjoys time at the beach and in the mountains.