Science Department Head

Clay Junior High School

Carmel Clay Schools
Carmel, IN

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE AND AWARDS: Began teaching science in Clay Junior High School in 1982. Golden Apple Award in 1995 from Indianapolis Power and Light Company for $2,000, used for travel to Manitoba where he rode tundra buggies to videotape polar bears for a presentation that won Library of Congress recognition. Outstanding Achievement in Science Education award from Boehringer-Manneheim, 1997. Member, national board of Outstanding Young Men in America, a recognition he earned in 1982. D.J. Angus Scientech Foundation awards, 1987 and 1990.

PERSONAL: Weaver is the son of the late Robert Allen Weaver, Shortridge High School biology teacher who headed the first science department when John Marshall High School was established. A frequent traveler to Europe, Weaver still recalls one of his most rewarding experiences was in making a Royal Presentation at Buckingham Palace in 1979 as a representative of the Butler University Science Department.

EXCERPTS from comments by colleagues: Mark Weaver is "our own original version of Mr. Wizard." He takes education to a higher level; it's his life. At school, if he is not teaching, he is preparing to teach. If away from school, he is likely to be videotaping polar bears in sub-zero Canada, leading students to Southern Indiana caves or to a Chicago museum, or preparing lessons for the outdoor laboratory. The Naturalist Club he created is the school's largest.

When the Children's Museum was disposing of older displays, he purchased them to install around the school to pique students' interest in science. He frequently adopts animals for students to observe for unique characteristics and behavior. He is tireless. Chosen department head when the school was reorganized, he provided leadership and encouraged professional development to embrace the new middle school concept.