Amy Saccoccio

Amy Saccoccio, Teacher, Randolph Community Middle School

Amy Saccoccio was a 6th grade general science teacher at Randolph Community Middle School. After participating in the 2016 RET program, she decided to participate again to learn even more about science research and bring new ideas back into her classroom. Since many of her students are unaware of different STEM careers and what they do realistically, Saccoccio set out to bring knowledge and opportunities to her students following the RET program.

Summer 2019, Saccoccio worked with Ji-Xin Cheng and Pu-Ting Dong on a research project that focused on phototherapy of drug resistant bacteria. She learned how to use Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence in order to image bacteria and fungus, and their response to drug treatment. It was definitely a step out of Saccoccio’s comfort zone, but she learned a lot and was able to bring new concepts back to her students.

Overall, Saccoccio hopes that her new teachings will inspire students to study STEM. Some of her students fear the math that comes with STEM or are unaware of the college application process and how to go about it once they reach high school. Saccoccio can use her new RET contacts and help them early on.

Saccoccio advises future participants to take a step back and learn from their experiences. “This program makes you step outside your comfort zone. It forces you to ask questions, explore and network with people who may not think the same way as you. Stepping out of your comfort zone is a great way to grow as an educator,” says Saccoccio.