North Branford Public Schools
Hear from Lauren Danner about the scientific community of lifelong learners at North Branford Public Schools.
Meet Lauren Danner
Teacher Ambassador
I grew up in North Branford and am a proud graduate of North Branford High School where I now teach. Working here has always felt like home—my colleagues and students are my extended family. There is a great sense of community pride throughout our district and we encourage and support each other constantly.
Teaching
- 9th Grade General Science Teacher
Awards
- 2017 Connecticut Teacher of the Year
- 2017 CSTA Excellence in Secondary Science Teaching Award
- 2016 North Branford District Teacher of the Year
- 2012 Most Inspirational Teacher-Teen.com
- Science Department Chair
- North Branford High School Data Team and Faculty Council Member
Teacher Certification Program
Why I Teach
As a former scientist, I now get to share my passion for science through teaching. My students become members of the Danner Family, a scientific community of lifelong learners. I make it very clear to them that we all know a great deal about science because we observe scientific phenomena constantly, and it is my job as their teacher to get them to ask questions and delve into the why behind these phenomena.
My students can plainly see that I love my job, I love what I teach and I am there to make sure they have the tools to succeed. When I watch my students engaged in a lesson, whether it be constructing a model or designing and conducting an experiment, I have often declared, “I can’t believe I’m getting paid for this!” The greatest rewards in teaching come from the day-to-day conversations and meaningful connections with my students; a surprise letter or thank you note; the laughs and smiles; or the stories of former students being inspired to pursue a career in science because of something we learned in class together. To me, nothing is more rewarding.