Chemistry was once the hardest subject for me, despite my best efforts. However, this all changed once I had Jason McDonald in my sophomore year. I haven’t had a class with him for 2 years, but his impact on my high school career has cemented his spot as one of the best teachers I’ve ever had.

“I like seeing students grow up and mature before my eyes,” McDonald said. “When I think about it, I’m often taken aback at how different they are between the start and end of the year.”

Part of the reason McDonald is such an amazing teacher is the fact that he is passionate about his job. He makes himself available and is genuine when he asks questions about our interests or plans for the future. He treats us like the young adults that we are and is extremely accommodating when it comes to extenuating circumstances.

“I know that not all my students are going into the field, but I think it’s important to have a basic understanding of how the scientific world works,” McDonald said. “It impacts every aspect of our lives, so we all need to know a little about it.”