Chris Heumann
8th Grade Teacher

Chris Heumann ("hoymin") was educated by the schools and cultures of Berkeley in the 60's, Atherton in the 70's, and San Diego in the '80's. His eclectic experiences have made him a passionate teacher who connects the curriculum with students' experiences, builds community and camaraderie in and out of the classroom, and empowers learners to exceed their own expectations through academic and personal challenges. "Teaching is the art of educing intrinsic curiosity, channeling inquisitive energy, and synthesizing knowledge with ever-expanding experiences. Middle schoolers are at the most amazing time in their lives, and it is my honor to be able to participate in their adventurous journey."

Chris started UC San Diego as a pre-med biology major, but his focus changed as he discovered his true calling during some education courses that he took on the side during his junior year. After graduating in 1982 with a psychology degree and getting his teaching credential, Chris returned to the Bay Area and began "The Adventure Company" summer and ski camps, taking small groups of teens on wilderness expeditions and adventures throughout the Sierras and Hawaii for the next 16 years.

When Chris finally settled down here in the Silicon Valley, Chris began his teaching career at Kennedy Middle School in Cupertino, teaching 7th grade science there for 21 years. Chris married a performing arts teacher and vocal instructor, and the two of them have a full house with three energetic girls, a lazy dog, and a constant supply of other neighborhood pets and kids. Chris' teaching and technology career extends to the adult world as well, where he has taught educational technology tools and integration strategies to thousands of teachers via programs at the University of California, Foothill College, and the Santa Clara County Office of Education. At the Krause Center for Innovation,

Chris has directed his highly-successful "M.E.R.I.T." program, wherein 50 teachers per year learn how to "Make Education Relevant and Interactive through Technology". His own education continues as well, with his recent Masters in Instructional Technology from SJSU and a single subjects credential in secondary science education. Eager and honored, Chris is poised to participate in the powerful learning community that is Discovery Charter School. "I bring my few decades of teaching experiences with me, but I'm sure that I will learn far more from the students, staff, and parents that make this school what it has become and promises to be", concludes Chris.