Barbara Coon
My Name is Barbara Coon. I was born in New Jersey, lived in Elmira, Horseheads, Caracas, Watkins Glen, Madrid, Watkins Glen, New Orleans, Fort Lauderdale, and Watkins Glen. In college I majored in biology and minored in chemistry. After college, I worked in the lab at Schuyler Hospital, supervising the blood bank and chemistry departments. While there, I went back to Elmira College earning several non-degree provisional certifications and a Master's degree in education. More importantly, during that time, I had two wonderful children, a boy and a girl.
Initially, I taught 8th grade physical science at Horseheads Middle School, after which I took a position at Watkins Glen High School. While working at Watkins Glen High School, I have taught Biology, Living Environment, General and Regents Chemistry, General and Regents Physics, 8-1-1 Science, and a 12-1-1 science lab course. This year and next, I am teaching General Chemistry, Regents Chemistry, and General Physics. As a member of the Watkins Glen High School community, I participate in and volunteer for a variety of school functions, including sporting events, community service events, fund raising events, and social events.
Presently, I am honestly shocked by the lack of interest in global warming, climate change and related energy solutions among students in my school and am committed to finding a way to engage these students in these very real a pressing issues. I am hopeful that participation in the Grass Roots Program about renewable energy and cleaner fuels will provide me with an experience which will help me engage my students. And I am thrilled and excited to be participating in the Grass Roots Program.
I live in the country, just north of Watkins Glen. I love the out of doors and the Finger Lakes area. I especially enjoy cross country skiing, hiking, running, and kayaking as well as gardening and cooking. And I am a devoted fan of summer time in the Finger Lakes, completely enjoying the many and varied regional attractions and events.