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My Philosophy

My name is Joel Anderson and I have been teaching chemistry since 1999 at Parkway West High School. I believe science is important because it helps us understand the world in which we live. I thoroughly enjoy being in the classroom and bringing science to the students I teach.

In the classroom, I utilize lively demonstrations, lab exercises, discrepant events, and humor to bring an understanding of scientific phenomena to the students.

I believe that my creative teaching style makes chemistry fun for students as well as for myself.



Students doing an acid-base titration


Mr. Anderson dressed up for a Halloween show

My Education & Work History

  • Masters of Arts in Teaching from Webster University w/ emphasis on educational technology.

  • Bachelors of Science in Education from University of MO- St. Louis w/ a minor in mathematics.

  • Certified 9-12 Unified Science with chemistry endorsement.

  • Work at St. Louis Science Center performing science demonstrations

  • Formly employed at Florissant Valley Community College as a chemistry tutor.


    • St. Louis Arch

    My Family

    My wife Michelle & I married in 2017. Jordyn, my 1st daughter, was born March 2006. She teaches me everyday that parenthood is exciting and delightful. My 2nd daughter, Jaymie, was born May 2008. She teaches me everyday that siblings can have very different personalities from one another!

    I grew up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. My mother Roz, lives in Maryland Heights, MO. I have one brother, Shawn, who lives in Minnesota with his wife Stacey.


    Falls Park, SD

    Away From School

    When I am not teaching at school, my family and I enjoy the warm weather outdoors by hiking, camping, bicycling, gardening, and working around the house. We frequently grill outside, visit parks, and take in nature at its best.



    Appalachian Trail in Tennessee

    My favorite place to go is the Ozarks in Missouri, including: Taum Sauk, Pickle Springs, Hawn State Park, the Current River, Mill Stream Gardens, Silver Mines, and anywhere along the Ozark Trail or near the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

    We have also visited sites in Iowa, South Dakota, Minnesota, Kentucky, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Tennessee.



    biking in the Smokys


    enjoying the summer