Kate Tucci-Share '07

Science Faculty

What advice do you have for students new to Flintridge Prep?

Prep is a great place to try something new! There are so many clubs, activities, and even classes that may be outside of your comfort zone, and they are run and organized by people who want to share what they love with other students. If you want to try something new, do it— and you may find yourself with a new skill or hobby!

What would our community be surprised to find out about you?

I was a laboratory assistant in college where the whole experience of doing scientific research was very exclusive and there were many barriers to entry that prevented other students from participating. This was disappointing. That's one reason why I am so excited to work with Ms. Kaufman and Dr. Herman in the Jelly Lab and introduce the 9th grade biology students to our moon jellyfish— science shouldn't be a mystery that you can only unlock through special connections; it should be for everybody!

How do you spend your free time? 

I love to be outside as much as I can— my husband and I are trying to do more hiking around LA County to get to know our own backyard better, as well as traveling further afield to take in new sights. And there's nothing better after a good exploratory adventure than discovering tasty new things to eat at new-to-us restaurants— recommendations welcome!

In which Flintridge Prep teacher's class would you like to enroll, even for a day? Why?

There are so many incredible options. Some days I wish I could re-enroll as a student! If I only had to pick one though, I would love to spend a day in Ms. Popova's ceramics class. Just seeing the incredible pieces of art that our students make out of a lump of clay is inspiring!

What do you wish everyone knew about the community and students at Flintridge Prep?

I am still very close with many of the friends I made when I was a student, and I hope the current generation of students find the same deep and meaningful connections during their time here.

What do you hope your students take away from your courses?

Biology is such a broad topic with so many specific interests and individual branches of study about everything from the interactions between molecules in our bodies to the relationships between different species that share ecosystems. I hope my students are each able to find something that excites them. There is truly something for everyone!

Describe something you have experienced that feels quintessentially Flintridge Prep?

When I look back on my years as a Flintridge Prep student, I think so fondly of the class trips— the 9th grade trip to Catalina was such a great bonding experience and a great way to make new friendships and strengthen the sense of community outside of the campus boundaries. I am glad that they have expanded the outdoor education experience for all grades every year. I think it's a great time to relax and make memories with friends outside of the classroom.

Anything else you want to share about yourself or experience at Flintridge Prep?

One of the best things about coming to teach at Flintridge Prep is that I now get to work with many of my favorite teachers as colleagues. I was a little nervous when I first started working as a substitute teacher two years ago, but it's actually been a wonderful experience to reconnect with the people I admired as a student— and I still seek their advice sometimes!