Greg Berg’s classes help students realize aspirations

Heather Koepl thought she was an “English kid” who was destined to graduate with ample writing skills, but without dabbling in the higher sciences. That was until she met Greg Berg, a 34-year teaching veteran. Through his chemistry class, Koepl grasped the most complex concepts and felt ready to take on his physics class.

Berg’s ability to incorporate stories, examples and experiments into everything he teaches made science less daunting.

“Because of the good time I had in chemistry, how much fun I had and how much I learned, I went on to physics,” she said. “I would have made different choices if not for him.”

Understanding physics will help Koepl in her plans to attend the University of Montana, study aviation and pursue a pilot’s license. She will graduate ranked 10th in her class, is captain of her cross country team and is a state track competitor who participated for four years on varsity track and cross country teams. She is involved in four school bands, playing bass clarinet, and bass and electric guitars. She is a National Honor Society and Key Club member.

She consulted with her older sister when deciding on a teacher to honor through NISTAR. Her sister confirmed what Koepl suspected: Berg’s classes are a good preparation for college.

“He definitely demanded hard work and study time,” Koepl said. “He’s helped me develop my study habits and helped me apply whatever I’ve learned.”

Berg has been a NISTAR recipient three prior years. Koepl attended his honors classes and Berg believes she will have no problem realizing her aspirations.

“Heather is a serious student,” he said. “She’s got goals and the drive to make it happen.”