Kari Dombrovski
Saint Cloud, MN - Science
Kari Dombrovski teaches second grade science and mathematics at Talahi Elementary School in the St. Cloud Area School District, where she has worked since 1986. As a district science instructional leader, Ms. Dombrovski supports teachers in their science teaching and has conducted many in-service workshops to help connect science with literacy, mathematics, and other content areas. She was instrumental in the district's movement toward using research-based science curriculum kits for science instruction. On the district's Science Vertical Team, she helps K-12 educators align instruction with State standards.
Ms. Dombrovski's instructional and program improvement activities include chairing the district's K-6 Science Committee, serving as an Advisory Panel member for the Minnesota Department of Education to develop scenario-based test items for the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments-Series II Science Assessments, and serving on the Minnesota Science Teacher Association Board.
Among her colleagues, Ms. Dombrovski is recognized for her strength in integrating science into all areas of the curriculum. She uses hands-on learning experiences such as field trips, classroom activities, and experiments to weave science, literacy, and mathematics standards seamlessly. She has won praise for creating a learning environment in which students are held to a high standard while receiving individualized support. At Talahi Elementary School, she is known as both a model for effective science instruction and a helpful resource for other teachers.
As a member of the Advisory Board of Saint John's Arboretum at Saint John's University, Ms. Dombrovski has served on an advisory group, written and reviewed lessons and activities that are part of the arboretum's program, and trained teachers in implementation. Ms. Dombrovski has a B.S. in elementary education and an M.S. in curriculum and instruction from St. Cloud State University, both of which she earned with high honors. She has also participated in a master's plus program for environmental science at several postsecondary institutions.
Kari's remarks: Receiving this award means I have been highly recognized for my lifelong passion for and perseverance in science education of Minnesota's youth and their educators. I believe the exemplary science educators I have had in my life and the support of my family and my colleagues have fueled my passion for learning. My life's goal is to perpetuate this love for learning and receiving this recognition is a tremendous igniter to keep the passion burning as I try to be an exemplary science educator.
