Teacher
comments from Alton Biggs’s recent conferences for Montgomery County Public Schools include remarks such as “very
well done” and “really nice guy & knowledgeable.” I would add that he was very receptive to our suggestions
for a session format and followed through by facilitating small group discussions to implement our plan. Our teachers have
a better understanding of how ecological concepts in our curriculum guides can be reinforced throughout the year. Thanks to
Mr. Biggs for working with us to make the sessions productive and useful for our teachers. – Gary Hedges, Montgomery County Public Schools, Rockville, Maryland 20850
Two
of Mr. Biggs’s presentations stand out for me. I have never been more moved by a professional presentation than I was
by Alton’s “32 Teaching Tips”. These seemingly simple tips were distilled from each of his years as a classroom
teacher. I found them to be insightful, humorous, thought provoking and above all helpful. I have shared these words of wisdom
with many of my colleagues, both newcomers and experienced teachers. Another presentation I attended was “Vicarious
Visiting”. The photographs were stunning! What a rare treat to not only hear tales of a fellow biology teacher’s travels to literally all
corners of the globe, but to also view images that rival those in National Geographic. Of course, Alton’s presentations
went well beyond simple travel yarns. As a trained biologist and biology teacher, his discussions provided details regarding
the flora and fauna of each location that I was able to take directly into my classroom; along with the generously provided
CD-ROM of those very images! – Robert
Dennison, Teacher, Jersey Village High School, Houston, Texas
Alton Biggs is both a scientist and a teacher. I have observed in his classroom, my son has been his
student, and I can attest to the fact that he engages kids to think as a scientist. He is an expert that has proven to be
a national leader in science education. – Ted Moore, Superintendent, Lovejoy Independent School District, Allen,
Texas
Alton Biggs was my high school biology and AP biology teacher, as well as a mentor to me when I began
my teaching career. I can say for sure that he knows biology and has an innovative approach to education. Alton’s accomplishments
outside the classroom speak to his unique knowledge and talents as well. His textbook authorship, professional affiliations,
travels, and consulting keep him on the cutting edge of education and still make him a valuable aid to me in the classroom.
– Ann Terry,
Science Department Chairperson, Coppell High School, Coppell, Texas
Alton Biggs has been the best in biology education for a
long while. His expertise is unsurpassed. He is not only willing to listen to a question, but is able to offer very useful
advice about how to handle any given situation. There is no other person I know who combines a knowledge of biology and the
art of teaching as he does. Having attended several of Alton’s presentations, I can honestly say that I always find
them interesting. He has a gift for keeping his audience totally engaged in the work that he is presenting. His presentations
always include many hand-on activities and useful lab materials that can be used the next day in class. I find these sessions
very useful and energizing, and can’t wait to try them in my classroom as soon as possible. – Keith Watson,
Science Department Chairman, Winnsboro High
School, Winnsboro, Texas
Whenever I
am stuck or need some solid information on any issue in biology, I email Alton. I have a handful
of select reference persons on my favorites list that I can get in touch with in a hurry. Alton is at
the top of that list. – Sam Rhine, Genetic Ed Center, 14000 East 113th Street, Fortville, Indiana 46040-9623
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