Chris Monsour discovered his passion for teaching after an opportunity to substitute teach for Tiffin City Schools propelled him on his journey into education. He obtained his professional Ohio teaching license through an alternative pathway, then pursued graduate work in biology, ecology and inquiry, earning a Master of Arts in education from Heidelberg University and a Master of Science in science education from Montana State University. He found his true calling in advanced sciences and currently teaches a variety of Advanced Placement and College Credit Plus biology courses at Columbian High School in Tiffin, Ohio.

Extending beyond traditional instruction, Monsour focuses on giving all students an opportunity to find their path to success through developing engaging courses and organizing community service projects. His time as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Findlay, Heidelberg University, Terra State Community College, the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth and teaching English as a second language at Tianjin Normal University in the People’s Republic of China have shaped not only his instructional philosophy but also his belief that teaching and public education are essential to the foundation of society.

Monsour continues to participate in global expeditions so he can bring authentic content to his students that engages and excites them about the sciences. His dedication to teaching earned him the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and the Outstanding Biology Teacher of the Year Award from the National Association of Biology Teachers.