Ms. Kerry Schwartz

Water Resource Research Center
kschwart@ag.arizona.edu
(520) 621-1092

Title: Ms. Kerry Schwartz is an Associate Specialist.

Background: Ms. Schwartz has been an Arizona resident since 1987.  She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Geology from James Madison University in Virginia and worked in an environmental consulting firm in the DC area for three years prior to going back to school for her master’s degree.  She received her Master of Science Degree in Geosciences (focusing on hydrogeology) from the University of Arizona in 1990.  After eight years working in the field of hydrogeology with Science Applications International Corporation and Ground Water Resources Associates, she joined the University’s Water Resources Research Center as a statewide water education coordinator.  She has been with the Center for over a decade and is now in a faculty position in the Department of Agricultural Education as an Extension Specialist.

Education:
Master of Science - Geosciences, University of Arizona, 1990
Thesis - A Geohydrologic Investigation of Volcanic Rocks Using the Gravity Survey Method: Galiuro Mountains, Graham, Pinal and Cochise Counties, Arizona
Advisor: Dr. John Sumner

Bachelor of Science - Geology, James Madison University, 1984

Education and Outreach: As an Associate Specialist, Kerry Schwartz directs the statewide Arizona Project WET (APW) program, which is recognized as Arizona’s premier water education program for teachers and students at all grade levels.  Through effective instructional practice, she promotes wise water management and an appreciation of the role water plays in shaping Arizona's unique landscapes as well as maintaining a healthy economy.  To effectively “translate” science and research about water and natural resources her program offers multimodal ways of learning and applied learning opportunities.  Ms. Schwartz leads a statewide team of APW coordinators who:
1.deliver professional development for teachers that meets National Staff Development Council guidelines,
2. engage students in relevant curriculum units that meet grade level specific standards,
3.develop new tools and materials for relevant 21st Century learning and
4.connect community members with schools and K-12 students.

Major Programs:

• Water and Natural Resource focused Professional Development for Teachers in the form of workshops and academies
• School Water Audit Program
• Water Investigations Program
• Arizona Water Festival Program