First-year CCS science teacher learning, too

    This is Ashton Wasenius’ first year of teaching, so he’s learning about the classroom as his students learn about science.
    The Arapahoe native teaches biology, earth science and advanced biology at Chase County Schools.
    He’s also the STEM, or Science, Technology, Engineering and Math teacher, working with Vex robots, virtual reality and the development of technology such as video games.
    Wasenius entered college at the University of Nebraska-Kearney not knowing where his interests lay. He then found computer science and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Computer Science in May, with a Health Science minor.
    He was also in the Pre-Medicine program, and until this past spring had planned to attend med school.
    That would have meant more years of studies, and Wasenius wanted to spend more time with his family.
    He is married to Olivia, with daughters Ellowynn, 3, and Ivy, 1 1/2.
    Computer science didn’t directly lead to teaching science, in his case. Wasenius was finishing up his computer science classes while starting his med school classes like anatomy.
    That dual interest led to the design and completion of a game aimed at teaching middle school-aged students anatomy and physiology.
    Wasenius also worked with health professionals to create an app for students suffering from mental illness, including self-screening and links to resources.
    The teacher is pursuing his Master of Arts degree in Curriculum and Instruction as part of transitioning into his teaching license, as he didn’t obtain an education degree.
    Wasenius has always been interested in teaching. He has organized volunteer projects and activities for youths, taught Sunday School and coached baseball and softball.
    At CCS he enjoys interacting with the students, seeing them learn.
    “It’s a lot of work, but it’s fun,” he said.
    He wants to instill an excitement for science in his students.