Influencer of the Week: Anna Birenbaum, The Crenshaw School

Anna Birenbaum has a passion for teaching born out of a passion for learning. A top graduate from The Crenshaw School, Birenbaum returned to teach at the very school that facilitated her enthusiasm for science. Her students love how she engages them with interesting perspectives and a multitude of hands-on activities that bring science to life in her classroom. She especially enjoys teaching about plants and bugs and shares her fascination with students daily.

What do you love most about your school?

The thing I love the most about our school is the small class sizes. Because of the smaller class sizes I am able to establish closer bonds with my students and engage with them more often.

What’s your favorite part of your role?

My favorite part of being the science teacher is passing on my passion for science to my students. Some subjects are so fascinating I cannot wait to pass the knowledge on. I like to encourage my students to go out into the world and use these new science tools to explain life.

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best?

My students are my motivation to do well. When I’m teaching something, I love (when) they feed off of my excitement and make my job more enjoyable.  

What’s the nicest thing a student, parent or faculty member has done for you?

The nicest thing a student has done for me was call me their school mom. This really meant a lot to me because I felt that I was doing my job well enough that a student felt so highly of me.

If you could take a vacation anywhere, where would you go?

If I had to vacation anywhere I would take a road trip to every national park in the United States of America. I absolutely love our national park system and believe everyone should visit them to better understand the importance of maintaining a healthy ecosystem and protecting our environment.

What do you like to do in your free time?

My free time consists of going to Disney!

If you could meet anyone, from present day or throughout history, who would it be?

If I could meet anyone it would be Jim Henson. He was able to combine engineering and art to create his intricate puppets. I highly appreciate his contribution to the arts and sciences.

Cats or dogs?

Chameleons! I enjoy both cats and dogs, but unfortunately I am very allergic. Chameleons are my favorite pet because they are always watching out for things and changing.  

What’s your favorite season and why?

My favorite season is summer, because I have a lot of time to travel to national parks and enjoy nature.