Maycee Ballew started her high school teaching journey at Dos Pueblos High School this year
as one of the new biology teachers. Ballew grew up in the small town Sanger, and has recently moved into Santa Barbara County where she enjoys the “great community aspect” of Santa Barbara.
“I have felt so welcomed and supported [by] staff, admin, and students,” Ballew said. “[The teachers] have been so accommodating with me, which has been amazing.”
Ballew earned her undergraduate degree at California Polytechnic State University and later graduated from University of California Santa Barbara with credentials in life science. However, Ballew didn’t always see herself becoming a biology teacher.
“I actually thought when I was going into undergrad [that] I wanted to be an elementary school teacher,” Ballew said. “And, when I started volunteering in an elementary school, … I was just like, ‘this is not for me.’”
Ballew then decided to pursue a science-centered career, as she said teaching, “is exactly what [she] was supposed to do.”
Through teaching biology, Ballew has discovered her favorite part of being a teacher: making student connections.
“[This connection] is huge for me,” Ballew said. “This is what [teaching] is for, so students can understand themselves.”
Ballew pointed out how teacher-to-student connection also creates a “responsive” environment.
“I’ve tried to make an effort to bond with my students and ask them questions about their personal lives,” Ballew said. “[Students] can immediately see that kind of recognition and that, ‘I’m not just seen as a student, but also a person.’”
Outside of school, Ballew finds enjoyment in leisure activities. She is currently training for the Santa Barbara Half Marathon in November.
“Unfortunately, I [spend] a lot of my time running,” Ballew said. “I also love secondhand shopping and thrifting … I have found a lot of scores for secondhand furniture.”
Ballew has “enjoyed” her time so far in Santa Barbara County, and “hopes” to continue teaching at DPHS in order to leave an impact on students.
“I want to be known as the science teacher that is really passionate about what she does,” Ballew said. “I want to … awaken the love for science in [students].”
