Dear Parents and Students:

My name is John Giacobbe. Please allow me to introduce myself as one of the science instructors at South Pointe High School. Before I became a teacher I was an archaeologist and forensic anthropologist. I have Master of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in anthropology, with a heavy emphasis on the biological sciences and scientific laboratory techniques. As an archaeologist I excavated sites from Florida to Flagstaff, ranging from a 10,000-year-old mammoth site in New Mexico to a 100-year-old historic mine in Prescott. As a forensic anthropologist I analyzed human skeletal remains from the early Archaic period (about 7,000 years ago) investigating the diet and nutritional habits of these prehistoric peoples; and assisted in the investigation of modern criminal cases, even serving as an expert witness in several court proceedings.

Although the first part of my life involved serving primarily in the private sector, a large component of my work has always included education and public outreach, which I have always found to be one of the most rewarding parts of my former jobs. My previous teaching positions have been included Skyline Technical High School, the International Studies Academy, Mesa Community College, Florida Atlantic University, and the e-Institute of Glendale.

I believe in a holistic method of teaching, integrating both a scientific perspective and a pragmatic view of its applicability to the world around us into every lesson. I believe that critical thinking and a firm foundation in the scientific method are vital components to the development of a full education, one that will serve students in whatever profession they choose to follow. The principles of the scientific method, in fact, are only a refinement, by analysis and controls, of the universal process of learning by experience and observation.

I also believe that frequent and vigorous communication between teachers and parents is vital to the success of students. This year I plan to offer several options for parents and students to stay in touch and updated about what's going on. This includes: regular email updates outlining what we are doing in our classes; an informal weblog (blog) with daily updates, links, and comments; and, with student participation, a dynamic series of world wide web pages that will provide a showcase of student activities. In addition to being available to meet with parents and students on campus, I hope that you will feel free to email me at jgiacobbe_southpointe@cox.net any time with questions, comments, and suggestions.

I look forward to working with the students, parents, and staff of South Pointe High School.

Sincerely,

John A. Giacobbe, MA, RPA
voice: 602.243.0600
email: jgiacobbe_southpointe@cox.net
webpage:www.nakedscience.org/mrg/index.html

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