Science Department
The Science department’s main goal is to provide students with exposure to all types of science (both physical and life) so that they have a well rounded understanding of the world around them. They also aim to increase their proficiency in scientific reasoning and problem solving skills, which will be an asset to them the rest of their lives. The department encourages students to consider professions in the science realm as there is a lot of important and meaningful work in the field and there is a shortage of people pursuing these careers. The department is excited to be widening the availability of courses to include more ability levels and grade levels so that more students have the opportunity to learn.
Science Department Staff
Martin Hobbs is a veteran member of our Science department with over 29 years of experience, all at EPCHS. He primarily teaches Earth Science and Physical Science courses and is the advisor of HOPE Club. Originally from Normal, Illinois, he attended Illinois State University, Florida State University and Mississippi State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Geography Education, and his Masters degrees in both Education Administration and Geoscience Education. Mr. Hobbs shares, “The EPCHS community is very close knit and care for each other. That includes staff, students and parents. It's great to be a part of this community and being able to teach the subjects that I love.” Mr. Hobbs resides in Eureka, Illinois with his wife and three teenage daughters, all of whom he values more than anything. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, gardening, reading, and all things renewable energy and energy conservation related.
Sean Poindexter is a part of the Science department and has four years of teaching experience, all at EPCHS. He primarily teaches Chemistry, AP Chemistry, Physical Science, and Physics. Originally from Canton, Illinois, he attended Canton High School before earning his associates from Spoon River College, his Bachelor’s in Chemistry Teacher Education from Illinois State University, and his Master’s in Chemistry Teacher Education from Illinois State University. Mr. Poindexter shared that, “My why is helping students challenge themselves to know that they can persevere through difficult things. I love that EPCHS has a range of students that come through their doors, and that we have so many opportunities for all of these students to succeed and learn about what they are interested in.” Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his fiance and dog, frisbee golfing, and watching sports.
Megan Beecham is a part of the Science Department and has 23 years of teaching experience, 18 of those being at EPCHS. She primarily teaches biology and physical science courses. Originally from Morton, Illinois, she graduated from Pekin Community High School before earning her Bachelor’s in Geology and Secondary Education from Bradley University and her Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Olivet Nazarene University. She feels that EPCHS is a wonderful place to work and that the staff truly care about their students. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and traveling
Mason Tennell is a member of the Science department and has 8 years of teaching experience, 3 of those being at EPCHS. Mr. Tennell primarily teaches biology, zoology, and AP biology. Originally from Pekin, Illinois, he went to Pekin Community high school before graduating with a Bachelors in Science from Greenville College, double majoring in Biology Education and Environmental Biology. He also earned his Masters in Curriculum and Instruction with emphasis in Environmental Education from Concordia University Portland. He also just graduated with a Masters in Educational Leadership from Aurora University. Mason has a passion for supporting students to reach their goals and accomplish all that they want to. He loves the genuine support and passion that is present among the community, staff and students. Outside of work, he loves to play tennis, run, exercise, hunt, hike, and spend time with family.
Diana Sevier is a member of the Science department and has been a teacher for two years at EPCHS. She primarily teaches Anatomy and Physiology, Forensics, and Biology. She is an NHS advisor as well as an assistant coach for the Girl’s Soccer team. Originally from Pekin, Illinois, she attended Pekin High School before earning her Bachelor’s in Biomedical Science from Bradley University and her Master’s in Secondary Science Education from Western Illinois University. Diana shared, “Science is a field that is creative and inspires curiosity, I love teaching students how to examine and look closer at the world around them. EPCHS is a great place to work because it is a strong community of teachers that care about their students highly and want to see them succeed in and out of the classroom.” Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, gardening, and spending time with family.