Carla Guarraia, Ph.D. ’06, molecular and cellular biology, has received a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching for her work at the Park School in Baltimore. Only one award is given per state per year, and Maryland is an extremely competitive region.
In 2017, Guarraia proposed and coordinated a complete redesign of the science curriculum for ninth and 10th graders at Park in close collaboration with colleagues. The new ninth grade course, first implemented in 2019, integrates physics, engineering, and computer science content, and the 10th grade course brings together concepts from biology, chemistry, and data analysis. In addition to covering content, the courses emphasize skill-building and opportunities for memorable and authentic project-based experiences that inspire excitement about science. Park juniors and seniors are then prepared to pursue an array of electives in all five disciplines and interdisciplinary topics.
An external evaluator lauded the resulting curriculum, which Park calls its “Core Program,” for its alignment with the Next Generation Science Standards, differentiated learning approach for students with a range of needs, emphasis on mastery learning and a growth mindset, prioritization of active learning, and the faculty’s commitment to caring for their students.
Expanding her view
Guarraia, who as of the 2024 – 2025 school year is the upper school science department chair at Park, studied for her Ph.D. under the mentorship of Philip Farabaugh, professor of biological sciences. Then she completed a postdoctoral fellowship with Jennie Leach, associate professor of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering.
“Phil Farabaugh supported my growth as an academic, and as a citizen of the world. He consistently showed respect for me and built up my confidence that I could be smart and fun while not only teaching science but caring for the people around me. As a mentor for life, I have learned from Phil that if I am my authentic self my life will be most successful,” Guarraia says.
Leach “shares my passion for teaching, and in Jennie I continue to have a role model for pursuing ambitious exciting science while also being a working mom,” Guarraia adds.
“UMBC is a really special place that shaped my view of Baltimore, as the campus focus was on rigorous education, inclusion, and excellence, and it was my first experience with a truly international community,” Guarraia says. “I am forever grateful for how UMBC, Jennie, and Phil expanded my view of the world and of myself.”