Ms. McGough has taught for more than 20 years, working with students from preschool through fifth grade. She currently teaches at Valley Oak Elementary, in Fresno, California. She has also worked as an adjunct faculty member and a master teacher preparing new teacher candidates for California State University, Fresno. Her teaching has been recognized with the Crystal Award in her district, and she is a California state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching. Ms. McGough’ s academic background includes a BS in education and an MEd in gifted education. She is currently pursuing a PhD in science education. Ms. McGough works as a leader in professional development and serves on the curriculum design team for her school district. She served on the NSTA Preschool and Elementary committee and has published in the NSTA journal Science and Children.