I graduated from Willamette University's MAT program in spring of 2001, where I did my student teaching at North Salem High School. I attended Willamette University for my undergraduate work as well, where I received a BA in Biology with a minor in chemistry. After my undergraduate work and prior to returning for the MAT program, I spent a year volunteering with Americorps as an environmental educator in elementary schools. Prior to coming to Sumner School District, I was a science teacher, coach and club advisor at Gig Harbor High School in the Peninsula School District.  Three years ago, I received my National Board Certificate in Physics. One summer, I also took a number of classes about AP Chemistry, both for content and technique and another summer, I took a week long class for AP Biology.

I am very passionate about science and education and look forward to sharing that passion with my students and continuing to increase my knowledge about both over the years.

I enjoy taking advantage of the beautiful area we live in here in the Northwest with my husband, my twin boys and little girl.  Here are some pictures from our family road trip just after the twins were born and more adventures we had the next summer.  Then two summers we got a new addition to our family. Baby Jellybean, now known as McKenzi, has added a whole new aspect to our lives. Some of my favorite activities with my family include camping, boating, swimming, hiking, going to Northwest Trek and Point Defiance Zoo, and almost anything outdoors. 

If you have any questions for me please email me at

lleepperson@hotmail.com (home) or

ellen_berwick@sumner.wednet.edu (school)

and I will try to get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks!