ALYCE BROWNRIDGE

TEACHING AT THE MEADOWS WAS A DREAM COME TRUE

Chemistry is a science that studies the composition, structure, and properties of substances and the transformations they undergo. For the past eight years, newly retired teacher, Alyce Brownridge taught Meadows students this subject and, you could say, played a part in their transformation and growth from students in a classroom to young adults t hriving in the world

It’s that passion for inspiring students that lead Mrs. Brownridge to a career in education and teaching a challenging subject like chemistry. After earning a Master of Science in Watershed Management, she began her career in the field but was soon called to teaching. She spent 24 years at an international college-prep boarding school in Arizona where she served as Head of School from 2006 to 2011 before taking on the High School Division Head role at a day and boarding school in California. Finally, in 2014, a move to Las Vegas brought her to The Meadows School, and to what she calls a “dream come true.”

“Throughout my teaching career, The Meadows really stands out,” said Mrs. Brownridge. “The curiosity and intelligence of the students is fabulous. They are wonderfully diverse, have a passion for their world, and want to make a difference.”

Students in Mrs. Brownridge’s classes experienced chemistry outside of the classroom with the opportunity to do research projects designed by UNLV professors and the Las Vegas Water District.

“We did all kinds of interesting, hands-on projects that really gave students an enriching experience. The science department is committed to research, which is something most high schools don’t offer,” she said.

Easing into retirement after 27 years of teaching has been a learning experience for Mrs. Brownridge.

Now she has been able to focus on another passion, tennis, and plays often.

“Las Vegas has a fabulous tennis community,” Mrs. Brownridge said. “I’m on three teams, take lessons and attend clinics. I love the game.”

When she’s not on the court, Mrs. Brownridge continues to be a familiar face on campus, tutoring students and substitute teaching. The STEM expansion opened the year after Mrs. Brownridge retired, but she’s expressed excitement at the opportunities the expansion will provide Meadows students.

“What they’ve been doing at The Meadows in science and the emphasis on all programs – arts, music, sports - has really put them on the map. You can say excellence and not mean it, but The Meadows has really invested in the diversity of the overall experience. They are truly living their mission.”

Thank you Mrs. Brownridge, for your dedication to teaching, The Meadows, and for instilling a love for learning in your students!