Martha Warren: Diversifying science education

Martha Warren, a Forensic Science teacher at East St. Louis Senior High School, considered herself to be an educator long before she entered the profession.

“I have always been an educator of some sort or another, since I was in high school,” she says.

Along with a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Texas, Warren, who grew up in the Lone Star State, also holds master’s degrees in education and herpetology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

In pursuing her passion for the sciences, Warren recognized the lack of diversity in the field, and wanted to address it by becoming a teacher.

“What truly motivated me,” says Warren, “is that I did not see enough women and people of color pursuing degrees or careers in the sciences. I felt that I should be a teacher and encourage and assist students into getting into college, pharmacy, medical, nursing, dental and veterinary schools as well as the other sciences.”

Warren, who also served four years in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps, was inspired by her parents as well as her undergrad professors, Dr. Elaine Abusharbain and Dr. Paul Wanda, to impart her knowledge to young people as an educator. When Warren, who has over 15 years of experience decided to become a teacher, she wanted to not only educate in the classroom, but provide students with insight that would serve them throughout their lives.

She wanted “to teach the students how to think, not just what to think, and to get them ready for life, not just college,” Warren states. She also advises young people, “to have passion for what they love; don’t go into a field for the money. I would like to instill in them that they should pursue something because they believe in it, and because they love it!”

It is this genuine concern for her students that motivates and inspires them to push themselves and achieve.

A number of Warren’s students have participated in prestigious programs across the country including Washington University’s Young Scientist Program. In addition to teaching Warren has also been coaching academic teams, including the East St. Louis High School chapter of the National Beta Club for nine years. These teams present students with an environment that builds character and provides leadership skills.

In Warren’s efforts to get students to move beyond perceived limitations, she encourages them to remember that “the only person you are in competition with is yourself!” Warren’s intense commitment to help students reach their full potential, coupled with students’ determination is a formidable combination. However, the lack of resources is often a problem.

“Funds to purchase both consumable and long term scientific supplies for laboratory exercises are crucial to stay current with new technology and techniques,” Warren explains.

She has been resourceful in finding ways to address these issues and utilizes her relationships with several local institutions including the Washington University Outreach Program, St. Louis School of Medicine Forensic Science Program for Teachers, as well as the Illinois State University Bloomington-Normal Research and Development Program.

In addition, Warren states, “I also partner with other teachers in our science department to come up with creative strategies to create and conduct labs.” For those who want to become teachers and exemplify Warren’s zeal to support young people she offers some insights.

“You must have a true and passionate desire to help others,” Warrens says, “to share with them what you know, not just in terms of the content area, but anything and everything that will help them to become as successful as possible.”

Warren admits this isn’t always easy. “Sometimes it’s hard, but when you see that ‘aha’ moment in your students, it is so amazing!”

When Warren isn’t teaching or leading students, she spends her downtime engaging in cultural arts.

As her favorite quote from Walt Disney states, “When you’re curious, you find lots of interesting things to do. And one thing it takes to accomplish something is courage.”

This multifaceted educator uses her curiosity to explore varied interests and enjoys “sculpting, drawing, painting, any and all forms of art.” Warren also plays the flute and bassoon, and even teaches ballroom and modern dancing.

Warren, who is at times affectionately referred to as Marty, has steadfastly served students in a community that may lack an abundance of finances, but possess great tenacity and spirit. Warren’s unwavering dedication to ensure the success of young people is what makes her one of our area’s most exemplary educators and leaders.