Samantha Knepp

Samantha Knepp has joined the science department and is teaching careers in science, academic physics and AP Physics.

Knepp attended Penn State before working at Grier School For Girls for four years.

“I’ve always liked helping people learn, so when I got out of college with my bachelor’s, I knew I didn’t want to go into research, so I decided to pursue teaching,” Knepp said.

At Grier she taught similar science course, but she is new to teaching AP this year.

“I’ve always loved physics. Humans are naturally curious and physics can answer those questions. Physics tells us why and I think they’re something beautiful about that,” Knepp said.

Although the circumstances aren’t ideal for Knepp’s first year of teaching at Altoona, Knepp has found some activities and resources that can be used when in person classes resume.

“The biggest difference is time. It’s difficult making sure that everything is covered and that my students understand what they are doing,” Knepp said.

Despite the adversities, Knepp hopes that her students will learn from her class and develop their own questions and curiosities.

“I’m a nerd at heart and I hope that my excitement makes my students excited to learn,” Knepp said.

Outside of school, Knepp collects coins and enjoys spending time with her three children.