The Next Generation Science Standards majorly shifts science education by integrating life, physical, and earth sciences with engineering and technology. The new science standards emphasize scientific practices including asking questions, constructing models, planning investigations, analyzing data, using math, forming explanations, evidence based argument, and communication. All the new science standards also incorporate crosscutting concepts like patterns, cause & effect, scale & proportion, systems & system models, energy & matter, structure & function, and stability & change.

 

Teachers

Allison Brown

7th Grade Science

I have been teaching Life Science for 7 years at Rio Vista! In my free time, I’m an avid traveler, nature lover, and beach lounger.

  • B.S. Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, UC Santa Cruz
  • M.A. Learning Communities, Grand Canyon U

Adam Erickson

8th U.S. History, 7th Science, and ASB

I came to Rio Vista Middle School in the Fall of 2012, and deeply enjoy my profession. I always endeavor to assure my students are cared about and mentored through their middle school years, while also teaching lifelong, real-world academic and research skills.

Education:

  • B.A. – History & English, California Lutheran University (2009)
  • M.Ed. – Teacher & Curriculum Leadership, CLU (2011)
  • M.A. – History, CSU Northridge (2015)

John Franckowiak

6th Grade Math/Science/SS

This is my 18th year as a 6th grade teacher, and my 35th year overall as an employee in Rio. I absolutely love teaching here on the Rio Vista campus! I currently teach Math, Earth Science, and Study Skills.

  • B.A., Liberal Studies, CSUN
  • Clear Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, CSUN

Gena Mathwin

6th Grade Math/Science
  • 2 Yrs at Rio Vista
  • 34 Yrs in the Rio District!
  • BA Liberal Studies, CSUN
  • MA Educational Leadership, CSUN

In my spare time I enjoy horseback riding, water skiing, and pretty much everything about the country life. But the best of all, is spending time with my new grandson!

Amy Murphy

8th Grade Science & Robotics

I have been a teacher in the Rio School District since 2001 prior to becoming a teacher I worked for the California Department of Fish and Game as a fisheries biologist. In my spare time I enjoy gardening, camping, hiking and SUP.

  • B.S. Environmental Biology CSUF
  • M.S. Science Education CSUN

Cesar Ruiz

8th Grade Science
  • Teaching since 2012
  • Teaching at Rio Vista since 2013
  • B.A. Poly Sci, CSUN
  • Social & Foundational Science Credentials, CLU

I have always enjoyed science since I was a child growing up in Nyeland Acres and winning science fair competitions at Rio Real! It feels good to be teaching in a school district where I once was a student. I enjoy hiking, swimming, and spending time with friends and family.

Science News

New Science Standards for California
On September 4, 2013, the California State Board of Education adopted new science education standards, the Next Generation Science Standards for California. Still to be determined is the arrangement of the middle school standards. This issue will be taken up at the November 4 – 5 meeting of the State…
Science
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