Join me in shadowing the energetic Mx. Todd, the Science Specials teacher at Lakewood Elementary! Sophia Todd received a degree in 2021 from Smith College, where they fell in love with teaching as a TA and facilitator of the course "Grassroots Community Organizing." In their second year as an outdoor science teacher and first year at Lakewood, Mx. Todd combines kids' enthusiasm for the outdoors and the wonderful word of science. As a specials teacher, Mx. Todd directly works with every student at Lakewood Elementary to foster an excitement and belief that science is fun, and everyone can be a scientist. Through their various journeys in the trailer and Lakewood Garden touching bees, exploring habitats, and even adding a snake to the classroom, students of all backgrounds are deeply engaged with science and thrilled to learn about organisms and food webs. Watch as the students, led by Mx. Todd, work together to create an inviting, open environment and become entranced with hands-on science learning.

Through documenting the various interactions within and outside of Mx. Todd's trailer 3, I have thoroughly enjoyed Mx. Todd's style of teaching and their approach to all students. Mx. Todd's care for every kid is so apparent, and the classroom/garden is always filled with fun activities and beaming smiles. Their teaching goes beyond just school, Mx. Todds' implementation of the whole-child approach to promote positivity, respect, and curiosity is truly amazing. It's a class I wish I could have taken. And who knows, maybe if I did, I would have become a scientist too!