Influencer of the Week: Eileen Bundy, Foundation Academy

Eileen Bundy is a “science rock star” to Foundation Academy students. As a hurricane analyst and officer with the U.S. Air Force Reserves, Bundy has shared many of her heroic experiences flying into the eye of hurricanes with students in her science classes. Also, as a certified meteorologist, Bundy has also presented how weather impacts our daily life and our world. The best outcome Bundy has experienced with her students is encouraging and nurturing their love for science.

What do you love most about your school?

There are many things that I love about Foundation Academy, but what I love most about this school is the faculty and staff that I get to work with each day. It is so nice to have encouraging people who want to see you do well. It is the most positive work environment that I have ever worked in. 

What’s your favorite part of your role?

My favorite part about being a teacher has to be seeing the kids excited about science. It makes me happy to be a part of the moment when something clicks in their brain and they finally get a challenging concept or when they get something to work after getting stuck on it for a while. 

What made you want to take on this role?

When I was in the Air Force, I saw being an instructor as a natural progression. I enjoyed the process of working with a student, sharing what I know, and all about my successes and failures along the way. The same holds true with teaching sixth-graders. I want to set them up for success in their educational career and for life in general. 

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best?

I have over 70 students with whom I interact with closely on a daily basis. I know that they are watching me at all times, even when I am not at the front of the room teaching. I never want to let them down.

What’s the nicest thing a student, parent or faculty member has done for you?

The nicest thing that anyone can do for a fellow human being is to say “thank you.” Don’t get me wrong, I love gifts and gift cards, but it is the well-timed, random email from a parent that lets me know that I am appreciated and making a difference that gets me through the tougher days. 

How long have you been chasing storms? How do you use experiences to teach in the classroom?

I separated as a major from the Air Force three years ago. I had been with the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (aka Hurricane Hunters) for 13 years as a meteorologist. My students and I discussed and followed Hurricane Dorian from the moment it popped up on the National Hurricane Center’s web page. I hope that I have given my students a different perspective on storm formation and forecasting through stories of my experience on the airplane and flying storms. 

What do you like to do in your free time?

There are many things that I like to do in my free time. You can find me in the gym, running or biking on the trail, or sitting on the front porch laughing with my family.