Kate McDaniel

Photo by mana5280 on Unsplash Did you know that Sea Otters have a whole week dedicated to their awareness?? That’s because these animals play an important role in keeping their ecosystem healthy and balanced! It doesn't hurt that they are also VERY cute! Sea Otter Awareness Week runs September 20 - 26 this year (2026). In celebration, here is a short article (below) you can read with your students on sea otters and how important they are to a kelp forest. At the end of this post, you can...

Who are you outside of work? What do you like to do for fun? Ahi the Cat Outside of work, you would probably find me wandering around in nature, swimming in a pool, or playing with my cat, Ahi. I like to relax by reading books, sketching, and watercolor painting. I also enjoy working in the community, and am currently volunteering with the Oakland Public Library. What is your job title? Can you describe your job in 5 words? I am a Project Manager at Strategic Earth Consulting. In 5 words:...

Most students probably have an understanding that math and science are friends. Yet often when they encounter actually having to do math during a science class students are surprised! “Ugh… I have to do….. MATH?!” Yes! We have long sung the praises of unnecessary measurements: measuring materials with rulers, graduated cylinders or digital scales when the amount doesn’t actually matter. It's the opportunity to expose students to new tools and reinforce concepts like basic number sense,...