Gail Kunch

Located in rural Iowa, Fort Madison is surrounded by local seed companies who use advanced DNA technology everyday for the state's agriculture. with her program, "Advanced Biotechnology Applications," Kunch saw an opportunity for her biology students to capitalize on their surroundings and help seed companies look for ways to grow genetically enhanced vegetables. The course will teach enhanced techniques in DNA by matching nearly 180 high school students with professionals to see how DNA technology is used in a real world setting. This will serve as a stepping stone for other advanced science classes at the school and the lessons taught through the course will prepare them for work beyond high school. Most importantly, the course will instill confidence in the students in regards to their studies and research projects from this point forward. Kunch lives in Fort Madison.