Meet Sarah Cooper

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sarah Cooper a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sarah, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

When my daughter was a toddler, she didn’t speak. At the time, I was working in cancer research at the University of New Mexico, coding and building Oracle forms. While I enjoyed my job, I knew deep down it wasn’t what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

As I watched preschool teachers and speech pathologists work with my daughter and witnessed her begin to speak, I realized I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. I started thinking about possible career changes and narrowed it down to either nursing or education.

I then recalled an experience from college when I worked as a substitute teacher. One day, I tutored a middle school student in math. Weeks later, he excitedly showed me how much he had learned and retained. That moment stuck with me. I also thought back to my high school Biology teacher, Mr. Miller, instructors I had in the military, and my organic chemistry professor in college. Each of them had made a significant impact on me, and I realized that I wanted to make the same kind of difference in students’ lives.

So, I decided to become a teacher. I started teaching middle school science, and eventually moved to high school, where I now focus on chemistry and research.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I began teaching students how to conduct research and long-term science projects as a way to incorporate authentic learning into the classroom. My goal was to give students the freedom to explore topics that genuinely interested them. Over the years, I’ve seen students tackle projects ranging from exploring the strength of triangles in construction to studying the chemistry of baking. Their enthusiasm and creativity continue to inspire me to push for more resources and opportunities.

A significant turning point in this journey came when I joined Southeast Career Technical Academy in the fall of 2019. There, I guided students through more advanced projects, allowing them to dive deeper into their interests. They explored a wide range of topics, such as reducing hair damage during coloring (connected to our cosmetology program), the effects of Takis on plant growth, and even how to improve patient treatment speed during mass casualty events. This last project was particularly meaningful, as it was inspired by the tragic events of October 1st in Las Vegas. It also motivated me to seek funding through DonorsChoose and write grants to provide students with the tools they needed for high-quality research.

Since then, our program has expanded significantly. We now have 10 3D printers, CRISPR kits, DNA electrophoresis equipment, and much more. Although maintenance can sometimes take a backseat due to teaching duties, the tools we’ve acquired have enabled students to pursue more complex and impactful projects. Last year, students worked on projects like extracting energy from soil using specific bacteria, determining optimal 3D print settings for durable dog prosthetics, and even building an app to detect skin cancer.

What excites me most about this work is seeing students find and pursue their passions through hands-on, real-world research. Many of our students have gone on to present their projects at science fairs, and some were even invited to take part in research at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Watching them grow and achieve these milestones is what keeps me motivated and dedicated to expanding the resources and opportunities available to them. This is what drives me – their excitement, their passion, their success. I am just here to provide opportunites.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, three qualities have been most impactful on my journey: **determination, passion, and the power of connection**.

1. **Determination** – Throughout my life, determination has driven me to overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. From graduating high school with honors to paying for college by joining the Army Reserves, I’ve always been focused on working hard to succeed. In my career, I’ve been equally determined to provide opportunities for my students. I’m never afraid to ask questions or seek out resources to support their learning. My advice for those early in their journey is to stay committed. You will face challenges, but staying determined in pursuit of your goals will keep you moving forward.

2. **Passion** – My passion for teaching and helping students find their own paths has been key to my success. When students feel stuck, I don’t give up on them. I work with them until they understand, because I get excited when they “get it.” It’s that love for what I do that makes a difference in my classroom and fuels the learning environment. For those just starting out, I encourage you to follow what excites you and bring that passion into your work. It makes all the difference, not just for you, but for those you serve.

3. **The Power of Connection** – I’ve learned the importance of building relationships, whether it’s shaking hands, keeping promises, or sharing my passion. Many of the resources and opportunities that have grown my program came through the connections I’ve made with people who recognize my passion and want to help. My advice is to take the time to get to know people in your field, keep your word, and be genuine in your interactions. These relationships can open doors you didn’t even know were there.

As for advice, embrace the journey. It’s important to learn from every step along the way, and don’t be afraid to deviate from your original plan. I didn’t start out thinking I’d become a teacher; my journey took me through college, the military, working in medical labs and research, learning to code, and eventually, finding my way to teaching. The twists and turns shaped who I am today, and they’ll do the same for you. Keep an open mind and let your path evolve as you grow.

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?

The number one obstacle I face is **finding people willing to mentor my students in their research**, alongside **securing funding for projects** and managing **time**. It’s challenging to juggle maintaining a robust research program while teaching close to 200 students.

1. **Finding Mentors** – It’s difficult to connect with professionals who are both willing and able to guide students in their projects. Many experts are busy with their own work, and finding those who can dedicate time to mentor can be a challenge. My advice to others facing similar struggles is to keep networking—attend local science fairs, industry events, or reach out to universities. Building relationships over time helps, and sometimes mentors emerge from places you least expect.

2. **Funding** – Securing consistent funding for student projects is another big hurdle. I often write grants and seek out platforms like DonorsChoose to provide the materials students need for their research. My advice here is persistence. Funding opportunities are out there, but it takes time to research and apply for them. I also suggest sharing your students’ success stories with potential donors to show the real-world impact of their contributions.

3. **Time Management** – Managing a growing program while teaching nearly 200 students is overwhelming. Between lesson planning, mentoring, grading, and running the research program, time is always in short supply. To others in the same position, I recommend prioritizing and delegating when possible. Involve students in the management of their own projects and build a system that allows for some autonomy, which can ease your load and give them more responsibility.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: setech_research

Image Credits

Pictures from photography student Isabelle Villagrana