I talked with Amanda McLane, a new faculty member here at Albuquerque Academy. She teaches 10th grade Chemistry and Biology, and 9th grade Biology. It was after lunch (so ~12:25 P.M ). I had just walked into Ms.McLane’s office. Her office is small but quite content. She has many Polaroids on her wall and a bouncy teal-colored yoga ball you can sit on in the corner of her room. She has a big, neatly organized desk and sits in a spinny chair. Here are just some snippets of our conversation:

TA: Where did you move from?
AM: I moved from Colorado Springs, Colorado. I’m originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, but I moved out to Colorado two years ago to get my Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. I just moved back to Albuquerque this year.

TA: Why did you decide to become a teacher?
AM: I chose to become a teacher after realizing that my first career as a chemistry lab technician in a water testing facility felt monotonous. Every day involved the same tests and routines, and I found myself wanting something more dynamic. Working with kids offered the perfect opportunity for variety and creativity, and I’m thrilled to say I love it now. Teaching brings the excitement and fulfillment to my life that I had been missing.

TA: Describe your teaching style.
AM: My teaching style is relaxed and calm, creating a comfortable, stress-free environment in the classroom. When students feel at ease, it enhances their learning experience and allows me to teach more effectively.

TA: Out of all the subjects, why did you teach science?
AM: I chose to teach science because my high school experience was shaped by inspiring teachers passionate about their studies. Their enthusiasm sparked my interest in science, showing me that it’s a field where dedication can lead to meaningful discoveries over time.

TA: How do you like the Academy so far?
AM: I absolutely love our school! The campus is amazing, but my favorite part is definitely the students. I also appreciate the daily free lunches—it’s fantastic to just walk up the path, grab a delicious meal, and then head back to class. It really enhances the overall experience and provides a great sense of community.

TA: What was your favorite thing about Colorado?
AM: In Colorado, I loved stepping out of my house and being surrounded by the mountains and a bunch of hiking trails. The scenery was much greener than in Albuquerque, which I appreciated. However, I found myself missing Albuquerque, and that’s ultimately why I decided to move back.

TA: What is your favorite thing about New Mexico?
AM: I love all things green chile. I also love the Balloon Fiesta; there’s something very special about watching the balloons go up in the cool, crisp morning air. Ultimately, though, being with my family in Albuquerque is the biggest reason I decided to move back.

TA: What’s your favorite thing about your job?
AM: My favorite part of teaching is the students—they are responsible and respectful, and they make learning so much fun.

TA: Why did you decide to teach at Albuquerque Academy?
AM: I decided to teach at Albuquerque Academy because it’s such a prestigious institution, and I’ve always admired it. I attended a summer camp at the Academy, and I fell in love with the campus and the sense of community. That experience stayed with me, inspiring me to return as a teacher.

At the end of the interview, it was nice to know that both Ms.McLane and I had a blast! It was so nice to get to know her a bit better. She is a very wise, kind, and genuine person. For those who would like to contact Ms. McLane, feel free to email her at [email protected] for any questions, or stop by her office, S166, in the science building.