After 5 years of being a part of the PDS community, beloved science teacher and class dean Dr. Bethoney will be parting ways in the 2023-2024 school year along with other faculty bidding farewell to PDS and undertaking new chapters in life.
Having just moved to New Jersey in 2018, Dr. Bethoney was drawn to PDS during her visit because she “really liked the students and the science department and [PDS’] commitment to sustainability,” she told the Spokesman in an interview. Throughout her time at PDS, Dr. Bethoney has guided many students in her classes, including Biology, AP Biology, and Research Experience (REx). Not only has she aided students in scientific endeavors, but she has also advised the class of 2025 as the class dean, on which she reflected, “I have really enjoyed working with the junior class. I’ve gotten to know all the students in my class in ways that [have made] my time here at PDS more fulfilling […] Being able to help them experience PDS to the fullest has really made my time at PDS that much more enriching as a faculty member.”
When asked what her favorite part of being a teacher at PDS was, Dr. Bethoney responded, “I love running the ‘Bethoney Lab’. I love the kids in it. So whether [it’s a student] in one of my courses, or doing a senior project with me, or in my immersion program, [the students are] what I will miss the most.”
Although PDS will be saying its goodbyes to Dr. Bethoney, all the students she inspired throughout the years continue to look back on the fond memories shared with her. Junior Sophie Tanako, a member of Dr. Bethoney’s REx class, expressed, “Dr. B has helped me grow as a scientist in so many aspects over the past year. Through her guidance and support, my REx class and I have learned a lot of important skills that we will be using in our labs this summer and beyond.”
Dr. Bethoney will continue to pursue her academic interests as a faculty member of the Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences at Rowan University. Also a lover of the outdoors, she will continue hiking, camping, and trail running in the future.
When asked about a piece of advice she would like to impart to the students, she told the Spokesman: “Take risks when you can, be a lifelong learner. And when an opportunity presents itself, jump on that opportunity. You will grow that way.”
