Laura Kelley
“Putting students at the center of the learning experience forms the core of my teaching approach. My goal is to empower every student to see themselves as capable thinkers, problem-solvers, and contributors to their communities.”
With over 13 years of classroom experience, Laura has taught a wide range of courses, including physics, AP physics 1, calculus, algebra, environmental science, AP Calculus AB, and robotics. In addition to her work at the high school level, she has also taught college-level physics at the community college level. Her instructional experience spans both urban and suburban settings, including Title I schools, where she has served students from a wide range of social, economic, and cultural backgrounds. She is very familiar with the structure of the AP Calculus AB and the AP Physics exams and how to teach exam strategies alongside the content.
Laura earned her bachelor’s degree in Physics from the University of Colorado, followed by a post-baccalaureate teaching licensure program in secondary science and mathematics. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in environmental science and energy policy through Oregon State University, where she continues to deepen her expertise in the intersections of science, sustainability, and equity.
Laura holds advanced training in English Language Learner (ELL) support and is well-versed in differentiating instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners. She has also completed extensive professional development in project-based learning and engineering design-focused instruction, which she integrates into her science and math curriculum to increase student engagement and real-world application.
In all of her roles, Laura has prioritized inclusive, inquiry-driven teaching that fosters critical thinking and scientific literacy. Her interdisciplinary background and dedication to student-centered learning have made her a valued educator and collaborator in both secondary and postsecondary settings.
In Laura’s words
Putting students at the center of the learning experience forms the core of my teaching approach. The first tier of my teaching philosophy is that relationship-building goes farther than many people believe. To do the hard, vulnerable work of learning, especially in subjects that are often seen as intimidating or exclusive, students need to trust that I have their success and best interests at heart. I work to create an environment where students feel seen, valued, and supported, knowing that authentic connection is often the key to unlocking engagement and persistence.
Secondly, I believe that advanced topics like physics and calculus are not reserved for the few. They are, like any other skill, learnable and accessible with the right support. I reject the idea that only “naturally gifted” students can succeed in STEM. Instead, I scaffold my lessons using research-backed models of learning that focus on building conceptual understanding, followed by intentional practice and real-world application. I design my curriculum to make space for sense-making, experimentation, and reflection so that students are not just memorizing formulas, but building true scientific literacy and confidence.
I also believe that culturally responsive teaching and differentiated instruction are not optional—they are essential. I strive to bring relevance into the classroom and adapt my instruction to reflect the diverse learning needs and lived experiences of my students. Whether through project-based learning, collaborative group work, or direct skill-building, my goal is to empower every student to see themselves as capable thinkers, problem-solvers, and contributors to their communities.
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