Mr. Zuercher Inspires Students Through His Passion for Science

Caption: Mr. Zuercher checks in on a student’s independent work in one of the ninth grade physical science classes. [by Rafaela Miglio]

by Rafaela Miglio

At Pan American Christian Academy, science teacher Brian Zuercher started his 25th year of teaching with two sections of 9th grade science, two AP science classes and an AP math class. He is also serving as the 9B homeroom teacher, and continuing his roles as girls varsity basketball coach and robotics club sponsor.

With a schedule filled with both academics and activities, Zuercher continues to inspire his students through teaching experiments and lessons that make science both fun and easy to understand.

After so many years of teaching at PACA, Mr. Zuercher enjoys giving students opportunities to explore science through laboratory work. He believes that learning becomes more meaningful when students can experience what they are studying.

“I enjoy being able to provide students with an opportunity to do laboratory work,” he said. When asked about how he helps students understand challenging subjects, Mr. Zuercher explained his teaching strategy involves giving students many opportunities within a small amount of time.

“I break it down into manageable units and lots of practice,” said Zuercher.

This method helps students feel more confident and capable when learning difficult science concepts. Mr. Zuercher shares that his inspiration to become a teacher came from his own family.

“My father was a teacher and I wanted to be able to work with people on a daily basis and not sit in an office all day,” said Mr. Zuercher.

This desire to connect with others through education motivates him to make each class engaging and enthusiastic.

According to one of his students, Rebecca Pavanelo, Mr. Zuercher’s way of teaching makes learning enjoyable and effective.

“I like his methods of teaching, because he teaches us through slides, then gives us the opportunity to practice what we learned on the smartbooks and labs,” she said.

Pavanelo also shared that she enjoyed learning how to write chemical formulas this semester. She prepares for the tests by reviewing notes and using his booklets.

“I review my notes and use his booklets to learn for the tests,” she said.

With his guidance, students feel supported in their learning and encouraged to do their best. Mr. Zuercher’s passion for teaching goes beyond science itself. It’s about helping students grow through curiosity, dedication, and teamwork. Through his lessons, PACA students not only learn about Chemistry and Physics but also about perseverance and the joy of discovery.

Beyond his classroom and coaching roles, Mr. Zuercher’s long commitment to PACA comes from his connection to the school’s mission and faith-based view.

Reflecting on his many years at PACA, Mr Zuercher shared that he appreciates the overall mission statement presented by PACA to the community it serves.

“The reason why I have stayed at PACA for all these years is that I love PACA’s vision,” said Zuercher. “It has been and continues to be my desire to join with PACA in providing a high-quality education while integrating Biblical truth into all areas of learning, challenging students to love, to learn, and to live out the Christian faith, preparing students to go into the world to share the gospel, and to promote the cause of Christian education throughout the world. I desire to see lives transformed and sent out to further His kingdom.”