Juneau Math and Science Conference!

It’s official. I’ve got a thing for smart people. And smart people who work toward the success of all children…whew! My heart skips a beat just thinking about them. So naturally the Bridge to Understanding: Math and Science Conference in Juneau, Alaska, jam-packed with overeager educators and specialists in their distinct fields, nestled in a city with more than just a view, really did it for me.

In addition to all the teaching related information, I also got to go to the Yup’ik Science exhibit at the Juneau-Douglas City museum (and supplemental book) titled, Yuungnaqpiallerput or The Way We Genuinely Live. It was interesting to view the history and begin to understand how life in Alaska has been transformed and redefined with the changes that have come with time and exposure to new technologies. The exhibit recently moved to the Smithsonian Institute, so as you might imagine, it was both thrilling and emotional to see the display before it was shipped off. I also bought the book, it’s beautiful.

Finally, and probably most notably, a few of us also attended the conference-sponsored Saturday field trip sessions. On this day we were guided through the stages of the Juneau Fish Hatchery, followed by a tour of the famed Alaskan Brewery. We were invited to taste a variety of brews while we learned about the science and precision involved in the brewing process. As you might imagine, the field trip was interesting, entertaining and oh so much fun.

Alas, it was one of those trips that you’d rather not see end – With effective teaching strategies, beer artisans, great company and wildly smart and caring people...I was on overload. Too much of so many great things was really, really wonderful!

We also took some time on Saturday afternoon for some sight seeing. This is Mendenhall Glacier.
Minnesota still has a special place in my heart. Obviously. Lining the brewery were bottles from every state and every country.
Kyle (left, not center) is from my district too, he teaches in a neighboring village. It was a pleasant surprise to have company. The brewmaster is at center.
This photo was taken out of an airplane window as we flew over Yakutat, AK.