Meet The Teachers
Mrs. Brandy Solomon
Teacher, 7th Grade Science Department Leader
Boyertown Middle School East
Hello scientists! My name is Mrs. Brandy Solomon and I am excited to be working with the STEM YEA this summer. I am a graduate of Moravian College, earning a BS in Biology, and Lebanon Valley College, earning a Master of Science Education.
I have taught science for over 20 years, mostly in the Boyertown Area School District, as a seventh-grade science teacher. In addition to teaching, I work with science education companies including Discovery Education and Legends of Learning to help review and develop lessons, labs, and virtual activities for science students K-12.
I love being outdoors whether I am hiking, fishing or traveling with my husband and 3 children. Additionally, I enjoy coaching youth sports, and am often found at the softball field. I look forward to seeing everyone this summer at Kutztown University!
Mrs. Lauren Hirsch
M.Ed Earth Science
Wilson Southern Middle School
Hello Scientists! My name is Mrs. Lauren Hirsch and I am extremely excited to be working with the Rotary this summer. I attended Millersville University for my ungrad degree and Penn State University for my master's degree; both are in Earth Science education.
Currently, I work for the Wilson School District teaching Ecology and Catastrophic Events to 6th grade students. If I am not teaching, I am spending as much time as possible with my husband and two children traveling or seeking a new adventure. Educating young scientific minds is my passion and I am looking forward to meeting everyone at Kutztown this summer!
Mr. Steve Rhoades
Assistant Principal
Wilson West Middle School
Hello science explorers! My name is Mr. Steve Rhoades and I am looking forward to learning with you. I am a graduate of Kutztown University where I have received a BS in Earth and Space Science and General Science, a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and my K-12 Principal Certification.
I taught science for over 22 years and astronomy was always one of my favorite areas of study. When I am not working with teachers at Wilson, I enjoy spending time with my family playing music, camping, working out, or playing video games. I can't wait to see what we will create together this summer!
Mr. Adam Molis
Seventh Grade Science Teacher
Wilson School District
Hello science explorers! My name is Mr. Adam Molis and I can't wait to be joining you on this learning adventure. I graduated from Kutztown University where I received a BS in Elementary Education with a focus in Science and went on to complete my qualifications in math and science education for 7-12 grade.
I began teaching 5th grade science and math in South West Philadelphia. I am currently in my twelfth year of teaching with the Wilson School District in West Lawn as a seventh grade science teacher.
Besides science, my other passions are spending time with my wife Melissa and five year old daughter Grace. We love our time outside camping, hiking, fishing, woodworking, and tending to our chickens and turkeys. I eagerly await our chance to meet and learn some awesome science together this summer!
Meet the Interns
Emelly Tiburcio,
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Graduate
My name is Emelly Tiburcio and I am a recent graduate from Kutztown University. I majored in astrophysics and chemistry and I currently do research on a binary star system in the Cygnus constellation.
I will be pursuing a Ph.D. in physics at Louisiana State University starting this fall. When I’m not looking to the stars I am most likely reading a book or crocheting a nice sweater. I love spending my time in nature as I love going on hikes and traveling.
Lauren Murphy
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Graduate
My name is Lauren Murphy. I recently graduated from Kutztown University with a bachelor's degree in astrophysics where I had the opportunity to be part of the discovery of four exoplanets.
I am currently working with a research group that studies Algol-type interacting star systems. Besides astronomy I enjoy spending time in nature, and creating art.
Conlan Gilmor
My name is Conlan Gilmor and I am going to be a 4-8 math teacher. I am studying at King's College where I am at my 4th year and going to get my master's as well.
My favorite hobbies are to play soccer and relax in the sun. I enjoy teaching and have enjoyed my observations while I have been studying at my campus. I am excited to start teaching at the camp!