Kyle Harmon is a dedicated chemistry and AVID teacher who supports his students in their studies and college decisions. Photo courtesy of Senior Alan Rodarte.
With many staff members and various subjects taught here on the San Luis Obispo High School campus, Kyle Harmon teaches both AVID and chemistry in room 100. In AVID, he helps first-generation students gain the opportunity to continue their education in college. He also teaches chemistry, helping students hone their skills and learn everything they need to know in the subject. But what motivates him to teach these subjects, and how does he manage it?
Expressions: What got you into teaching chemistry and AVID?
AVID and Chemistry teacher Kyle Harmon: Great question. My undergraduate degree was in biology with anatomy and physiology. When I first started at SLO High, I was an integrated science teacher and then a biology teacher. As we switched our roadmap for curriculum to include chemistry at the sophomore level, we needed to add a chemistry teacher, so I took the chemistry assessments, and then I started teaching chemistry. Shortly after that, AVID was always something I was meant to teach. In my second year, I started with an AVID freshman class, and those kids really helped me understand what AVID could do in helping students throughout high school and navigating life’s challenges. I had that group for all four years, and since then, I have been involved in AVID at all levels for the past five years.
Expressions: In AVID, how many students have you helped go to college?
Harmon: That’s a great question that I’ve actually never thought about. I would say over the past years, close to 100 students have attended four-year universities through AVID. I don’t have an exact number, but after this year’s senior class of about 23 students, I’d say we’re pretty close to 100.
Expressions: What is your favorite part of being a chemistry or AVID teacher here at SLOHS?
Harmon: My favorite part about teaching chemistry is getting to know a wider range of our student body, as it is a graduation requirement. Many students aim to take AP sciences or classes that will help them with their college aspirations. I really enjoy seeing students from all different walks of life within my chemistry classes. My favorite part about teaching AVID is witnessing the maturity and change of a student throughout their high school experience. Ultimately, what I’m most proud of in our AVID program is seeing students change their family trajectory by being the first in their family to attend college. This creates a ripple effect, where now their siblings have a benchmark of what they want to achieve, and that kind of motivation carries down through the family.
Expressions: What is your favorite AVID memory?
Harmon: My favorite memories in AVID are when students receive their college acceptance letters. The moment they get that first acceptance email is incredibly exciting for me, as it represents the realization of their hard work. It’s such a rewarding experience to see their disbelief and joy when they realize they’ve been accepted.
Expressions: How many years have you been participating in AVID?
Harmon: This is my tenth year at SLOHS and my ninth year doing AVID.
Expressions: What has been your favorite moment this year, in any of your classes, AVID or chemistry?
Harmon: My favorite memory from this year was during our field trip to UC Santa Cruz. We had two former AVID students who are now attending UC Santa Cruz meet us on our tour. One of our senior students is considering UC Santa Cruz as their number one choice. It was inspiring to see them ask questions about the classes, climate, and culture. That moment felt like a full-circle experience, knowing we have created students who are leaders at the university. They are strong advocates for themselves and their community, and we’re helping another student pave the way to attend their college.
Students considering AVID or looking for some help with chemistry? Harmon is here for you!
He’s more than happy to assist anyone, even if you’re not in his class. With his friendly approach and effective teaching methods, you’ll find learning enjoyable. Plus, he has a wealth of useful information about college that he loves to share. Feel free to reach out—Harmon is always ready to help!
