Finding ways to engage and connect with science students.
About Me
Hi! My name is Alyssa Mancini (formerly Ms Kraz) and I teach high school science. I work hard to make sure students leave my classroom with the skills they need to succeed in whatever path they choose next. Whether it’s critical thinking, problem-solving, or just learning how to ask good questions—I want them to feel prepared and confident. And if along the way they happen to pick up a little science knowledge, even better! Ideally, I want them to walk away not just with facts, but with a curiosity about the world and the tools to explore it.
9+
Years Teaching
BS
In Biology
MA
In Teaching
7+
Science Courses
My goal
My goal with this blog is to support other teachers on their own journeys of learning and growth. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, I hope the ideas, resources, and reflections I share—along with my Teachers Pay Teachers products—can make your teaching life a little easier, a little more inspired, and a lot more impactful.
My Teaching Start….
I’ve always known I wanted to be a teacher. Helping others learn and grow has always felt like my calling, so choosing this path was a no-brainer for me.
Then I took Biology in high school—and I was hooked. That class sparked a deep love for science, and I knew I wanted to share that excitement with others. That’s when my journey to becoming a science teacher really began.
Always Growing
My first couple of years in the classroom were a bit of a stumble. It took some time to find my footing and really discover my teaching style. I tried new strategies, experimented with different approaches, and learned a lot through trial and error.
What made the biggest difference, though, was getting to know my students—really listening to them, understanding what they needed, and building relationships. That connection became the heart of my teaching and helped guide everything I did in the classroom.
Even now, I always say I’m a work in progress. I’m far from perfect, and I truly believe there’s always room to grow, learn, and get better—for both me and my students.
All the Sciences
When I say I’ve taught everything except Earth Science, I’m not kidding! My favorites by far are Biology, AP Biology, and Chemistry.
I’ve also dipped my toes into the worlds of AP Physics, Forensics, and Anatomy. I genuinely enjoy learning new things so I can teach new classes—there’s something exciting about diving into unfamiliar content and figuring out how to make it meaningful for students.
Every challenge that’s come my way, I’ve faced head-on, always with my students at the center of every decision. Their growth, curiosity, and success are what drive me to keep learning and evolving as a teacher.
At the end of the day, teaching is a continuous journey of growth. No two years—or two students—are ever the same, and that’s part of what makes this job so meaningful. Things will always be changing: the content, the technology, the expectations. But what should never change is our commitment to getting to know our students, understanding who they are, and figuring out what they need in order to learn and thrive. That’s the heart of great teaching—and it’s what keeps me inspired every day