Samatha Hampton ( she/her pronouns), who has been at Fieldston for two years, teaches three sections of Form III biology.
Where did you grow up and what made you move to the New York area?
“I grew up in a small town in the middle of a rural area called Vanceburg, Kentucky. I moved to New York to teach at Fieldston, with my significant other, who coaches college basketball.”
What inspired you to become a biology teacher and how did you get started in the field of education?
“I studied biology in college and initially wanted to be a doctor, but then changed career tracks after I graduated. I founded a successful personal training business which I managed for three years. I was then asked to teach science at my former high school in my hometown, which I enjoyed, and proceeded to get my masters in teaching shortly thereafter.”
What are some of the most important concepts or topics that you teach in your biology classes and why do you feel they are important for students to learn?
“Climate change is the most important topic for students to learn because it is such a crucial and relevant topic for students to understand today. I hope what is learned in class inspires students to take action and help take care of our world.”
How do you keep your classes engaging and interactive and what techniques do you use to help students understand difficult material?
“I try to apply what is learned in the classroom to students’ lives and the real world, so they can stay engaged, interested and want to learn more. I also try to keep class fun and have a variety of topics to be discussed in class. Repetition is key in order to help students understand difficult material. I have a lot of different review strategies whether it is a fun Kahoot in class, or a study guide for students to complete on their own. My belief is that, the more students see the material, the better chance they have to understand it.”
What made you choose to teach at Fieldston and what do you like the most about it?
“I love Fieldston for many reasons, but especially because the school is student-centered, and teaches ethical and social responsibility. It sets Fieldston apart. Also, I like how Fieldston is focused on the whole student, not just academics. I want to help students become well rounded so they can go out and accomplish amazing things in the world.”
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of school?
“I am still a personal trainer and love to exercise in the gym. I also enjoy reading and going on nature walks.”
What is your most memorable moment from your experience teaching at Fieldston so far?
“My most memorable moment was when one of her students was teaching the class about anatomy and physiology. It was just a very funny and memorable moment for everyone involved!”
How do you hope to inspire your students as a teacher?
“I hope to inspire my students by being a good person and someone they can look up to. I believe that one day my students will grow to be a mentor or someone other young people will also look up to. I want to be the teacher that I needed when I was younger and teach my students to give back to those around them.”
What is your favorite lunch from the cafeteria?
“Without a doubt, breakfast for lunch is my lunch at school. I love bacon and breakfast food is my favorite type of food.”
What do you look forward to for next school year?
“Next year, I am looking forward to seeing my advisees in their junior year of high school and preparing them for college. I am also looking forward to meeting my new freshman biology students.”
