Teacher: Nina Rooks Cast
School: Cooley Health, Science and Technology Academy, Providence, RI
Expedition Title: Investigation of the Dynamics and Transfer of Materials - Cruise 2
Expedition Dates: February 18-28, 2007
Chief Scientists: David Ullman

Nina Rooks Cast has been a physics educator at the Cooley Health, Science, and Technology Academy (part of the Providence School Department) since 2002. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Science from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in 1988 and completed a Master's program in Environmental Studies from Yale School of Forestry. Prior to her teaching career, Nina spent two years with NOAA as a Navigational Officer, providing her not only with experience, but with confidence and comfort working on and with the ocean.

Besides teaching, Nina is an avid community service volunteer, participating at the HSTA's School Improvement Team, and Advisory Committee. She also is a member of the Young Doctor's Club, Science Club, and Japan Club, and serves as a Secretary of People's Power and Light. Furthermore, Nina is a member of the Hope Valley/Wyoming Volunteer Fire Department, the Southern Rhode Island Hazmat Team, and the Hopkinton Conservation Commission/Hopkinton Economic Development Commission. In addition, Nina has coordinated many projects including for The Center for Coastal Watershed Systems as well as The Nature Conservancy. She acted as the Project Development Administrator for Energy Star Homes and as Program Manager for the National Marine Mammal Laboratory.

She hopes her experience with the Teacher at Sea Program will further her capability, especially with computer technology, as well as help students expand their knowledge of the use of technology and science in everyday life and when conducting research.