EDUCATION

Brett Butera
bbutera@dpsk12.net
Phone: 720.423.7022

Masters Degree: Masters of Arts in Teaching
Biological Science, Zoology
Miami University of Ohio
Graduated: December 2016
Bachelor’s Degree: Major- Anthropology; Minor- Biology
Cleveland State University
Graduated: December 2002
Associate’s Degree: Natural Resources: Recreation and Wildlife Management
Hocking Technical College
Graduated: June 1997
ENDORSEMENTS: Colorado Dept. Education
Professional Teacher License- Science Education (7-12)

You cannot protect the environment unless you empower people, you inform them, and you help them understand that these resources are their own, that they must protect them.” –Wangari Maathai

Life Before Thomas Jefferson High School

I have been teaching science at TJ since the 2006-2007 school year. Prior to teaching at TJ I worked for ten years in outdoor recreation and education. My work experience includes positions such as: rock climbing instructor, environmental education teacher, naturalist, team building and challenge course facilitator, youth programs and day camp director, as well as adventure/wilderness trip leader.

Other Courses Taught: Physical science, biology, and human anatomy and physiology

Publications and Presentations

Butera, B. (2020). High School Students Engage in Citizen Science to Investigate how Tree Species are Responding to a Changing Mountain Climate. Presentation at the Biennial Rocky Mountain National Park Research Conference, Estes Park, CO.
Butera, B., & Esser, S. (2019). A Forest in Motion. The Science Teacher, 86(5), 22.
Butera, B. (2017). Integrating a Citizen Science Project into a High School Science Curriculum. Presentation at the Biennial Rocky Mountain National Park Research Conference, Estes Park, CO.

Awards

Denver Mile High Teacher Award 2011-2012
Denver Teachers Awards’ Distinguished Teacher 2018-2019