- High Schools
- Science Department
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Degrees and Certifications:
Mr. Christopher R. Beam
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I was born in Reno, but grew up all over the west coast (and a bit in Kentucky). My family was moving constantly, and despite the relative stability of my adult life, I’ve packed up and moved more times than I've had birthdays!
I worked as an auto mechanic, computer repair tech, ranch hand, carpenter, and landscaper before I decided to go to college. I attended UNR where I studied Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, while working in a bacteriology lab researching the bacteria that causes strep throat (and many other diseases). After graduation, I accepted a job at the New York University School of Medicine managing an Immunology research lab.
At NYU, I helped conduct research into a possible treatment for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or just Lupus for short). A large part of my job was managing the lab’s mice. After a while, I got tired of the animal side of research, and I decided it wasn’t really what I wanted to do with my life.
Education has always been important to me. I attended a high school that was a lot like Turning Point, and it was what helped put me on the right track. My plan had been to eventually teach while conducting research, so I just cut out the research part and went for an ARL teaching license. Like most big decisions, I did this on a whim, with little consideration, and I couldn't have been happier with how it worked out.
I really enjoy teaching at Turning Point. I feel like I’m accomplishing something meaningful here, and I feel invested in the success of my students.