WHY SCIENCE?
Science is LIFE! Science is happening around and within you at all times. Science is relevant, cool and interesting. Why not science??!!
WHY TEACHING?
I love kids.....especially junior high kids! I feel fortunate that I love my job, my school, my subject area and my students. I enjoy sharing the world of science with others and opening up their eyes to the world around them. I have the best job ever!
HOW OFTEN WILL I HAVE HOMEWORK?
Homework is assigned approximately 3 nights a week and should take 10-20 minutes to complete. Homework is usually started in class. The more efficiently you work in class, the less you should need to do at home. Homework will always be awarded points and will help to determine your overall grade.
DO YOU ACCEPT LATE WORK?
Yes, late work will be accepted up until you are tested on the material. However, late work will not receive full credit. As you have probably realized, some points are better than none!
WHY DON'T YOU LIST OUR HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS ON YOUR WEBSITE?
You are responsible for recording your homework assignments in your planner each and every day upon entering class. It is good practice to help you stay organized and focused in class and once you are at home. If you know the assignment can be found on the website, you might not take advantage of the time given to you in class for recording your assignment. I want you to learn to rely on yourself, not a website for information.
HOW DO I FIND OUT WHAT I MISSED WHEN I AM ABSENT?
The best thing to do is check Google Classroom for the daily agenda and/or assignments. Be sure to check the pink "absent box" when you return for printed notes, handouts, etc. If you are going to be out for several days, a parent can call the school and arrange for your assignments to be collected in the office.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU?
After school hours, it is easiest to email me. I will often times check email in the evening from home. mailto:ksoto@hartdistrict.org
HOW OFTEN DO YOU UPDATE INFINITE CAMPUS?
I update Infinite Campus at least twice a week. You and your parents should be checking IC at least once a week, if not more.
I AM ON TEAM FUSION. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
This simply means that you and other Team Fusion members will all have Mrs. Martinsen for English, Mrs. Daily for History and Mrs. Soto for Science. We all work and plan together to ensure your success at PJHS.
WHERE DID YOU GO TO COLLEGE?
I earned my B.S. in Biological Sciences and teaching credential at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo (go Mustangs!). I received my Masters of Education (emphasis: Classroom Guidance) from the University of LaVerne and my CLAD credential from Stanford University.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
I love spending time with my family. I have two sons, one who recently graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in International Security and Conflict Resolution and the other who is a Captain in the United States Marine Corps. My handsome husband is the love of my life and an all-around great guy! We have an adorable Golden Retriever named Murphy. I like to read, bake, nap and hike. I enjoy watching "The Big Bang Theory", "American Ninja Warrior", "Ted Lasso" and "So You Think You Can Dance".
