Amy Truksa Senior Lecturer, Mathematics, Planetarium Director, Planetarium Star Lab
About Amy Truksa
Contact
[email protected]
(208) 459-5130
Boone Hall, 102F
Expertise
My focus is science and mathematics education at The College of Idaho. In mathematics, I teach the MAT 101, 102, 130 series as preparatory classes for other courses in math and MAT125 (Data Analysis and Statistics). In science, I am the director of the Whittenberger Planetarium.
Personal Statement
I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to help my audiences become aware of the patterns, rhythms, and processes of universe. In teaching math, I find the same reward in helping my students see and understand the patterns in mathematics.
My connections with The College of Idaho are many: my father, Gary Strine, was a professor of physics for 30 years; I am an alumnus of the college; and my husband, Scott Truksa, is both an alumnus and a professor of chemistry.
Professional Experience
2011-current Instructor, Mathematics Department, The College of Idaho
2000-current Planetarium Director, Whittenberger Planetarium, The College of Idaho
1999-2005 Program Resource Director, Sawtooth Methodist Camp, Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho
1998-1999 Adjunct Faculty, Mathematics Department, The College of Idaho
1994-1996 Science Teacher, Caldwell Alternative High School
1993-1994 Discussion Leader, Exchange program between Oregon State University and Asia University, Japan
1992-1994 Science Substitute Teacher, Albany, Alsea, and Corvallis, OR
1992-1994 Saturday Academy Programs, Oregon State University
1992-1993 Co-chair: "Expanding Your Horizons" Workshop, Association of Women in Science
1990-1991 Veterinary Technician, Linn Veterinary Hospital, Albany, OR
1989-1990 Independent Contractor, Bureau of Land Management, Boise, ID; Interagency Scientific Spotted Owl Committee, Portland, OR
1989 Hunting Check Station Manager, Idaho Fish and Game, Boise, ID
Education
- M.A.T. Science Education, Oregon State University (1992)
- B.S. Biology, The College of Idaho (1989)
- A.A., Cottey College (1986)