Who is Jackie Grundberg?
So, you're probably wondering what this photo is all about. Well, this is where my entire life changed. Every summer during college, I had exciting internships: at an oceanography research institute, surgery research lab or working with seals and seal lions at an aquarium. I was headed down the path of applying for veterinarian school, when I saw my very first IMAX film... THE SERENGETI! That very afternoon, I enrolled in a wildlife management program in Kenya. When I returned from that experience, I had a new outlook on life! (Can you find me in the center between the two trucks?)
For the next several years, I worked as a wildlife biologist all over the world. I worked in the field with different nature organizations. I had incredible mentors and colleagues. I loved it!
While living overseas, I decided to pursue a teaching career. I earned my state certification to teach high school biology on a U.S. military base. When I returned to the States, I fell in love with the Montessori philosophy. I earned my American Montessori Society (AMS) credentials to teach 6-12-year-olds. For 11 years, I taught in several schools across the U.S. During this time, I got married, had 2 children, and earned my Masters of Education in Instructional Technology.
In 2017, I left the classroom and started Montessori Consulting Services. As an educational consultant, I help parents incorporate Montessori and Love & Logic philosophy into their homes. At the same, time I also became an Instructional Guide, Field Consultant, and Practicum Advisor for The Center for Guided Montessori Studies (CGMS), a MACTE credentialing teacher education program.
Through my teaching experience at many different schools, observations with my own children's education and now guiding adults earning their teaching credentials, I saw some gaps in science education. I hope that my passion for science education, the principles of inquiry-based, hands-on lessons, and my own experience as a classroom teacher ultimately help teachers and children.
Backpack Sciences is where I've discovered I can contribute the most to my community of parents and educators. Join me on this wonderful journey!
