Noyce Scholar Profile
Zachary Kovach
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: B.A., Secondary Education; B.S., Physics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Physics, grades 9-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
Arizona State University
Current academic or teaching status:
Senior
School and school district:
Internships at Tempe Prep Academy and Horizon High School
Background:
I was born in Ohio and have traveled the states ever since. Although I still call Ohio home, I have spent the majority of my 30 years living in states far removed from the Midwest. I have been in Arizona for the past 7 years, and look forward to my next adventure…whenever that may be.
Why do you want to teach:
It took a few years away from academia for me to realize that my true calling was being a physics teacher. Growing up in a high needs school, I saw firsthand the importance a teacher can make. This is what I want to do; make a difference.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
As an intern, you are afforded a few chances to teach to the class. I would have to say that the first lesson I taught was the best. Not because I did a good job, which is quite the contrary. But I had fun, the students had fun, and we all learned something. The students learned about spring constants, while I learned that teaching is awesome!
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
I can’t thank the Noyce program enough for all the support. This program has afforded me the opportunity to focus solely on my passion, teaching.
