Science Coordinator, San Diego County Office of Education
Chelsea Cochrane has a strong passion for helping all people thrive and letting their brilliance shine. Early in her career she developed a passion for teaching science. Helping students and colleagues see that STEAM is for everyone has been the most rewarding part of her career. With 30 years of experience in education, Chelsea enjoys designing curriculum and professional learning sessions that lead with curiosity and exploration, integrating science with other content areas. She has worked as a classroom teacher in both general education and special education settings, a science lab teacher, a district resource teacher, and as a Teacher in Residence for Sally Ride Science. She has her Masters in Educational Technology, and is currently a Science Coordinator with the San Diego County Office of Education.
Vice President: Michelle Roy
Science Coordinator , Kern County Office of Education
Science Coordinator , Kern County Office of Education
Michelle Roy has been dedicated to the field of education since 1988 and currently serves as a Science Coordinator at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. Throughout her career, she has made a significant impact as a teacher and leader, focusing on innovative approaches to teaching math and science. With a strong foundation in liberal studies and biology, as well as advanced expertise in curriculum and instruction, Michelle has been instrumental in shaping meaningful learning experiences for students and educators alike. Passionate about increasing the representation of economically disadvantaged students, minority students, and girls in STEM careers, Michelle is committed to creating opportunities that inspire and empower the next generation.
Secretary: Maria Simani
Executive Director, California Science Project (CSP)
Executive Director, California Science Project (CSP)
CSP is a statewide network providing professional development for K-12 teachers in science. Dr. Simani received her Ph.D. in experimental particle physics in the Netherlands and then conducted particle physicist research at DESY, Germany, at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, and at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Dr. Simani also researched brain functioning and learning at the Keck Institute for Integrative Neuroscience at the University of California, San Francisco.
Since 2012, Dr. Simani has served on the Science Expert Committee of the California Department of Education to review and provide recommendations for the adoption and implementation of the Next Generation Science Standards. Dr. Simani and the California Science Project have also contributed as lead writers of the new California Science Curriculum Framework. The California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls nominated Dr. Simani in 2013 as one of the Trailblazer STEM Women of the Year, and the California Science Teachers Association recognized Dr. Simani for her distinguished service to science education in California in 2016 and 2019.
Since 2012, Dr. Simani has served on the Science Expert Committee of the California Department of Education to review and provide recommendations for the adoption and implementation of the Next Generation Science Standards. Dr. Simani and the California Science Project have also contributed as lead writers of the new California Science Curriculum Framework. The California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls nominated Dr. Simani in 2013 as one of the Trailblazer STEM Women of the Year, and the California Science Teachers Association recognized Dr. Simani for her distinguished service to science education in California in 2016 and 2019.
Treasurer: Zachary Pettitt
STEM Coordinator, Orange County Department of Education
Zachary Pettitt is a passionate STEM educator dedicated to advancing science education and fostering community engagement. He works to create inclusive and innovative learning experiences that empower both students and educators. His commitment to integrating technology and equity into science education drives his efforts to enhance curriculum development, professional learning, and hands-on STEM opportunities. Through his work, he strives to inspire curiosity, streamline educational processes, and ensure access to high-quality science instruction for all learners.
STEM Coordinator, Orange County Department of Education
Zachary Pettitt is a passionate STEM educator dedicated to advancing science education and fostering community engagement. He works to create inclusive and innovative learning experiences that empower both students and educators. His commitment to integrating technology and equity into science education drives his efforts to enhance curriculum development, professional learning, and hands-on STEM opportunities. Through his work, he strives to inspire curiosity, streamline educational processes, and ensure access to high-quality science instruction for all learners.
Past President: John Lazarcik
STEM Coordinator, Imperial County Office of Education
STEM Coordinator, Imperial County Office of Education
I have been the STEM Coordinator for Imperial County Office of Education for the last five years. Prior to that I taught 7th and 8th grade science for 18 years in the El Centro and Holtville School Districts. I joined SCASS in 2015 and it was through this organization that I was able to connect with the wonderful science community in SoCal. SCASS is where friendships are born and passionate ideas about science education are shared. I look forward to continue serving the SCASS community.
