Region IX: Gila County
Meena RustagiPayson High School
region_ix@azsta.org
School/ Position: Payson High School/ Chemistry Teacher
Education: Masters in Inorganic Chemistry, Bachelor of Education in Science
About Myself: My name is Meena Rustagi. I have been employed as a chemistry teacher at Payson High School for sixteen years. I have also worked as an adjunct instructor to teach Allied Health Chemistry at Gila Community College, Payson Campus. I have a passion and love for innovative methods of teaching chemistry such as learning by doing, which is an amazing tool to connect science with real-world applications. My interest in science developed while pursuing my bachelor’s degree. That led me to major in Biological Sciences and Chemistry. Payson High School Chemistry students with my guidance organize an annual Chem- stem day to instill and motivate younger students’ interest in science with hands-on activities. In my free time, I enjoy handicrafts and sewing.
What is your favorite science activity: My favorite activity is doing demonstrations as they have the potential to stimulate curiosity and the real performance of the phenomenon. With this passion, I and one of my colleagues have started a ‘ Science in Motion’ program for Gila County Schools. It is an Educational Outreach Program to promote science through demonstrations upon scheduling.
Why are you a part of ASTA: Being surrounded by great teachers I further developed an interest in biological sciences and Chemistry. The purpose is to work with and to share what I learned from my teachers to help other educators.
