03 Sep Then And Now: SET High Science Teacher, Mr. Ashe
It’s not just parents that like smaller class sizes- teachers like them, too! Take Mr. Travis Ashe, our physical science (think earth science, physics, and chemistry) teacher. Not only does he get to teach smaller classes, he gets to teach what he wants, like his Earth Science and Engineering class. Plus, we teach on a block schedule meaning his class periods are long enough for experiments and discovery. We love making our teachers (and students and parents!) happy!
What can we say – engagement and passion are really, really important at our tuition-free 9th-12th grade high school in San Diego. Learn more about Mr. Ashe and his passions, both now and back in high school!
What is your role at SET?
Physical science teacher.
What do you love about SET- what sets it apart from other schools?
Smaller class sizes allow teachers to work with all students.
What career did you want to pursue when you were in high school?
I wanted to be a wildlife biologist.
Any after-school and/or summer jobs while in high school?
I volunteered two summers with the Student Conservation Association. We all had a blast working on trail repairs in Washington, Alaska, and Canada.
What activities were you involved with in high school? Are you involved in any SET activities?
I was involved with Track and Field, Cross Country, and Knowledge Bowl as a high school student.
What music did you love listening to in high school? Now?
I have always been, and still am, an alternative rock fan.
What was your go-to after school snack in high school?
A Cappuccino Blast at Baskin-Robbins was my monthly treat while in high school.
What was your favorite class in high school? What class would you like to take now at SET?
Biology was my favorite class in high school. I would love to have taken Ms. Lennon‘s Lord of the Rings elective class in high school.
How did you get around in high school?
I used to walk a mile to high school. Walking was much faster than taking the school bus. I drive to work now, but wish there was a quick and convenient public transportation option.
5 Fun Fast Facts About Mr. Ashe
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done (besides teaching!)?
I climbed a 6 pitch route in Joshua Tree National Park.
What is the scariest animal?
Human
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My Biology teacher because he gave fascinating lectures and was able to draw out detailed anatomical drawings of plants and animals. He also created a wonderful stream quality lab, which allowed us to take field trips to our local watershed.
What’s a cause that’s dear to you?
Conservation
What is something you wish you knew at age 19?
You learn more by attending college lectures in person. Watching recorded lectures is just boring.
Engaging and passionate teachers are part of what makes us a California Distinguished School. You can design your own learning path filled with rigorous academics, truly unique electives, fun clubs, and sports. Enrolling now!
About SET High
SET High offers each student individual attention from multi-talented, highly qualified teachers. Students at our California Distinguished School (twice awarded!) build a healthy camaraderie with classmates inside an intellectually rigorous environment that brings out their talents and personality, helping them develop their individual character and direction in life. With a wide variety of electives, flexible scheduling, dual enrollment college classes and more — our students regularly exceed their academic and personal expectations. Enroll now. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Find us at www.sethigh.org.