Our Staff
Elena Banks
I love SCIENCE! I grew up in a very large family (11 Kids) and we often experimented in and around the house. I found out that cayenne pepper is really hot and riding down a hill on a skateboard requires good brakes! I am a native San Diegan and love the warm weather. I graduated from San Diego State University with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Biology. I enjoy teaching at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center and love when students get the “Ah Hah!” moment.
Jacklyn Abbond
Hi I’m Miss Jacklyn! I was born and raised in California, moving to San Diego in 2003 to attend San Diego State University. I have since received my BA in Education, specializing in Science and my credentials to teach elementary students and I am now working towards a Masters in Educational Technology. I love being able to show students how and why things work and sparking their curiosity and interest in science and technology just like mine! When I am not at work or school, you can usually find me in the kitchen or out exploring San Diego!
Jamie Fryrear
I’m Jamie and I was born and raised in the Lone Star State of Texas and I have never been one to turn down an adventurous or daring opportunity. Since working at the Fleet, my adventures have taken me to the moon and beyond many times. I have also been a part of designing and creating a Martian society, along with making small changes to the International Space Station. I’ve mastered making digital jewelry with LED lights and I am still working on my anti-gravity chamber. Now, what I really enjoy the most, are the adventures I have in the classroom with my students. I can’t wait for my next one to begin!
Valerie MacPhee
My name is Valerie and I was born and raised in Massachusetts. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Boston with degrees in Anthropology and Earth sciences. I enjoy travelling, hiking, playing volleyball, and reading a good book on the beach.
Caitlin Shindler
I have loved science ever since I was a little girl, and I am so excited to be able to share my enthusiasm with our SciTech girls! I am originally from the East Coast; I was born and raised in Maryland and went to college at MIT, where I majored in biology. I came out west to attend graduate school at UCSD, where I earned a master's degree in Biomedical Sciences. I love it here in sunny San Diego! When I'm not at the Fleet, I can usually be found sewing, dancing, running, or reading.
Rose MacDonald
Hi my name’s Rose and I’m a self-proclaimed nerd! I’ve had a curious mind for as long as I can remember and believe that you’re never too old to learn. I was born and raised in northern California, in a small town called Rohnert Park and moved to San Diego 6 years ago for college. I attended UCSD where I received my B.S in Physiology and Neuroscience and am currently studying to receive my Masters in Chemistry from San Diego State. My favorite part about teaching science is that no two days are the same. When I’m not teaching, you can find me out running or in the kitchen baking up a tasty treat.
Sara Fulton
I was that annoying kid that always asked “why?!”- I guess I still am, I’m just taller now. I love learning and knowing how things work. I am grew up in Texas, but I have lived in eight states, and now I am enjoying the warm sunny days here in San Diego where I can ride my bike and explore the beach. I have a BS and MS in geology because geology ROCKS! I look forward to learning something new everyday and sharing the wonders of science with curious students.
Ange Robertson
Hello! Originally from the Midwest, I’ve been enjoying the San Diego sunshine for about a year now. With a BS in biology and a MS in geology and environmental science I am happy to share my passion for science education with the girls at Garfield Elementary School. When I’m not at the Fleet I can be found on the Mission Beach volleyball courts, the tidepools at Cabrillo National Park, or at the San Diego Zoo where this picture was taken!