Madelyn Rios lives by the mantra, “Whatever changes you would like to effect in our society has to begin with you,” and it certainly has with her inspiring work with the students at Lake Tahoe Community College and the Lake Tahoe School.
Rios’ has worked with students of all ages around the Lake Tahoe Basin to teach science in revolutionary ways. She previously worked at LTCC where she introduced her students to many international and outdoor experiences through excursions and virtual field trips. Moving to the Lake Tahoe School in Incline, NV, Rios has shifted her lessons to elementary students, where she plans to share the same goal of incorporating educational field trips and opportunities. She has also just completed a year of volunteering with Leadership Lake Tahoe and cannot wait to continue with the organization in the future.
Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Madelyn Rios
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
As an educator, I have worked with many organizations and people around the Lake Tahoe Basin to bring science literacy to all ages and types of students. This past year I have focused on bringing international and outdoor experiences to Lake Tahoe Community College students by creating the Belize Marine Ecology Course, winning a grant to internationalize my online ecology curriculum with a virtual field trip to Costa Rica, and winning a grant through the California Coastal Commission to take for students who have never had the opportunity to visit the ocean before on a multi-day excursion to Point Reyes . This fall I have shifted my focus to elementary students as the PK-5th grade science teacher at the Lake Tahoe School in Incline Village. Here, we are currently organizing a slew of exciting field trips and look forward to collaborating with science advocacy groups around the lake!
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
By far the best moment I have experienced as both a professional wildlife biologist and educator was snorkeling in Belize with a group of fabulous LTCC students. It was absolutely incredible to not only form meaningful connections with my students through a shared traveling experience but also show them first hand the incredible diversity of marine wildlife that I have lectured about in our Zoology course. I cannot describe the sensation of watching former biology students who, despite being covered in painful bug bites, coral scrapes, and riddled with traveling tummy troubles, squeal with delight as we point out tube worms and sea fans in tropical waters. I loved every minute.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?
“Whatever changes you would like to effect in our society has to begin with you. Let your every moment be an example of what you teach and counsel. Let your every action be a reflection of your beliefs.”
– Lolly Daskal
What was your first job?
Ever? Papergirl for the Sacramento Bee, age 11
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
Why not? In a nutshell, the view from Zephyr Heights.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
I just completed a year with Leadership Lake Tahoe and am excited to start, or continue to, volunteer on the various projects, work days, and outreach events through several groups in town. As parents of a first grader, most of our volunteer time is spent at Bijou Community School and affiliated groups.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Play.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds?
Taylor-Tallac Creeks; Rabe Meadow; Washoe Meadows State Park
Get in touch with Madelyn today:
Email Madelyn