Building Future Scientists: Ms. Avant’s Innovative Classroom
- Feb 26
- 3 min read
We are proud to recognize the incredible work of Ms. Avant, who was recently nominated for a Crystal Apple Award, an honor that reflects her dedication, creativity, and passion for student learning. Her classrooms have been fully engaged, energized, and focused, and it’s easy to see why.
In her 8th-grade science classes, students recently participated in a hands-on, in-depth lesson on Earth’s rotation and orbit. To bring this complex concept to life, Ms. Avant transformed the classroom into a model of our solar system. Students formed a circle around a bright lamp representing the Sun, each holding a pencil topped with a foam “Earth.” The foam balls were marked with dots representing locations around the world, including the North and South Poles, Oak Hill, Tokyo, and more.
With the North Star displayed on the classroom’s north wall, students angled their “Earths” toward it and rotated them counterclockwise as they moved around the “Sun.” As they rotated and orbited, they observed how different parts of the world experienced daylight, darkness, and seasonal changes. This activity helped students clearly understand how Earth’s rotation causes day and night, while its orbit around the Sun influences seasons and climate. By physically modeling these movements, students could see and feel how our planet moves through space, turning abstract concepts into meaningful, memorable learning.
The level of engagement was remarkable. Students were actively participating, asking thoughtful questions, and making real-world connections. It was a powerful example of hands-on learning in action.
In Ms. Avant’s 7th-grade science class, learning was just as creative and engaging. Students explored the phases of mitosis using Oreo cookies, a fun and delicious way to understand how cells divide and reproduce. By adding sprinkles and rearranging the cookies to represent each stage, students were able to visualize and remember the process more effectively. This interactive approach helped reinforce scientific concepts while keeping students motivated and excited about learning.
Beyond academics, Ms. Avant’s students are also outstanding role models. Recently, her 8th-grade science class partnered with Ms. Duncan’s kindergarten Marine Science class to help younger students identify and draw plankton. The older students patiently guided their younger peers, sharing their knowledge and encouraging curiosity. It was a beautiful example of leadership, teamwork, and mentorship.
This collaboration is what our school is all about: students supporting students, learning together, and growing together. It reflects our belief that we are one family, working side by side to brighten the future for everyone.
In addition to her work in the classroom, Ms. Avant also leads our ROV SeaPerch team, continuing to provide students with exciting opportunities in STEM and engineering. We invite our community to support this amazing team by participating in their fundraiser at Toptracer at The Preserve at Turnbull Bay, running through February 28. Participants can play “Closest to the Pin,” with proceeds going directly toward supporting the team and their continued success. Your support helps ensure our students can keep learning, competing, and growing through hands-on experiences.
Ms. Avant’s dedication to innovative teaching, student engagement, and community-building is what makes Burns so special. Her classrooms are places where curiosity thrives, confidence grows, and students feel inspired to do their best.
We are incredibly proud of Ms. Avant and grateful for the passion she brings to our school every day. Her work truly represents the heart of Burns: one family, one mission, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Ms. Avant's Science Classes 2026:
