Contributing Chargers: The Peck Family
Source/Author: Stacy Alexander, Director of Alumni and Community Engagement
September 17, 2021
Since joining the community in 2002, Lisa Peck - Upper School science teacher, alumni parent and Shorecrest grandparent - has created a lasting legacy at Shorecrest. In 2016, Mrs. Peck and her husband, John, were instrumental in establishing Medical Sciences as a signature Upper School program at Shorecrest. In honor of the Peck family's dedication to the program, The Center for Medical Sciences has been renamed the Peck Center for Medical Sciences.
From a young age, Lisa was drawn to science. As a Pre-Med major she received a Bachelor of Science and Secondary Education from Edinburgh University in Pennsylvania, and a master’s degree in Middle and Secondary Science Education.
Lisa believes that it is imperative to start children’s love of science early. At Shorecrest, she partners with other divisions to teach marine biology to Experiential and first grade students, as well as basic botany, photosynthesis and microscope usage to second graders. Her high school students also partner with younger grades to share health lessons they have learned. For example, Upper School students used iBooks Author to create children’s books about the systems of the body which they presented to first graders.
Lisa has observed Shorecrest students developing an interest in medicine earlier and earlier. She and her husband, John, conceptualized and developed an expansion of the Upper School anatomy and physiology classes to include an understanding of the breadth and depth of medical opportunities available, as well as hands-on health and medical basics to build student confidence and knowledge.
The Peck Center for Medical Sciences is an in-depth, applied sciences academic track for high school students. Through extensive coursework, laboratories with specialized equipment, guest experts, field experiences, and student-directed projects, Shorecrest students gain exposure to and expertise in a wide range of topics in applied medical science. Chargers in the Medical Sciences program also participate in field experiences such as hospital tours, making rounds with doctors, and sitting in on surgeries.
“Our goal is to expose students to multiple facets of medical science - not just becoming a doctor or nurse, but also introducing them to interdisciplinary topics in genetics, prosthetics, the business of healthcare, physical therapy, bioethics, etc., so that they have some foundational knowledge of topics and career options as they move on to college and consider career goals,” Lisa shared.
“What’s especially meaningful about this program is its real-world application,” says Shorecrest Interim Head of Upper School Erich Schneider. “Its experiential nature gives students the critical thinking and problem-solving skills they need in college and in life, whether or not they decide to pursue a future in the medical field.”
This year, Lisa will also offer students the opportunity to explore biomedical engineering through the Upper School’s STEAM Signature Program. She also offers Upper School students the opportunity to participate in the Pre-Med Club, an extracurricular club open to all 9th-12th grade students who have an interest in medical science. The club has no prerequisites and allows students to gain broad exposure to topics studied in greater depth through the Medical Sciences track.
If you are a medical professional and are interested in getting involved or presenting to Shorecrest students, please let Lisa Peck know at [email protected].
