Stephen Godfrey Scannell is a physics and integrated science teacher at Gresham High School in Gresham, OR. He has taught for approximately fourteen years and has held his current position for nine years. Starting as a substitute teacher, Mr. Scannell has taught at both the middle and high school levels. Courses he has taught include astronomy, chemistry, geology, marine biology, media technology, and physics. He currently serves as the Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam Advisor, First Robotics Team advisor, and the Astronomy Club advisor.
Previously, he served as the Mathematics, Engineering and Science Achievement advisor. He is active on the Gresham High School Staff Development Committee, Gresham-Barlow School District K–12 Science Leadership Team, and Gresham-Barlow School District Technology Leadership Team.
Mr. Scannell is known as a teacher who inspires and encourages his students. For example, the Astronomy Club was started (and Mr. Scannell agreed to serve as its advisor) when a student indicated that he was interested in astronomy. He ensures that his classes are targeted to higher-achieving students as well as those who have not been previously exposed to the concepts.
Mr. Scannell is an adjunct professor of astronomy at Lewis & Clark College. He serves as a resource to teachers by mentoring teachers new to the profession and supervising student teachers. Mr. Scannell is president of the State chapter of the American Association of Physics Teachers. The Gresham High School science department was a finalist for the Intel Schools of Distinction Award in 2007.
Mr. Scannell is a National Board Certified Teacher in adolescent and young adulthood science. He has a B.S. in science education and an M.S. in science education from Oregon State University.