Science Mom and Math Dad

We make the kind of curriculum we wanted for our own kids: clear explanations, thoughtful projects, and lessons that build real understanding without busywork. We do almost everything ourselves so our courses stay personal, practical, and carefully designed.

How it all started

In 2013, Jenny volunteered to bring a weekly science demonstration to her son’s 2nd grade classroom. Her name changed from “Andrew’s Mom” to “Science Mom.” Within a year, she was visiting every classroom in the elementary school. She came to the school each week as a volunteer and did science demonstrations from opening bell to closing bell.

Soon Science Mom was visiting dozens of schools throughout the Las Vegas valley. When schools shut down in 2020, Science Mom convinced her partner Serge (a mathematician) to join her as “Math Dad” to host daily math and science lessons. That Quaran-time series was the Science Mom and Math Dad’s first time teaching classes together. They’ve been doing it ever since!

Who we are

Science Mom has worked as a molecular biologist and a wildland firefighter, and at several jobs that land in between wearing a lab coat and wielding a chainsaw. She has a bachelor's degree in crop science and a master's degree in plant science, both from Utah State University. Science Mom enjoys drawing and creates the doodle-style notes that accompany each course. She also loves being outside and especially enjoys hiking, identifying plants, and berry picking.

Math dad grew up on a dairy farm in Southern Idaho. He has a PhD in mathematics from Penn State University and loves teaching all types of math, from arithmetic to advanced topics. He plays the violin and loves to sing. He also enjoys games and competitions. In each live class, he makes each quiz show a fun competition between him and the students (the Unbeatable Science Kids).

Science Mom and Math Dad live in Southeast Alaska. They have three kids and two adorable dogs (Kaladin and Lopen).

What we offer

We offer:

  • Full-year science and math courses. We teach the courses live, but afterward they are available as a self-paced class. We have a bundle of middle-school science classes that cover all of the middle school science standards.
  • A supportive community, including our weekly Chess Club and Painting with a Scientist series through Patreon
  • Free educational videos, printouts, and science lessons.

Most of our students are in upper elementary through middle school, but curious learners of any age are welcome.

Where to go next

If you have questions, feel free to reach out—we're happy to help you find what fits your student.

What families are saying
  • "The courses you develop are not just beneficial for knowledge — they help parents and kids bond over that knowledge. Both my curiosity and my son's have been piqued and encouraged… The passion you have for your subjects is evident and contagious."

    — Meagan
  • "Science Mom has been a godsend to my family and our homeschool… I loved that the price was per family, not per student… This is my #1 top homeschool recommendation."

    — Kimberly
  • "Science Mom's teaching style is engaging and she breaks down complicated subjects into easily understood topics. The doodle notes and hands-on activities were helpful… I had a lot of fun with the laser microscope."

    — Connor F., Grade 6
  • "My daughter took Bio 1 and 2… she was younger than the recommended age, but she was easily able to follow the material without significant help from me… Completely secular, and accurately handled topics like evolution."

    — Rachel Wilkenfeld
  • "He loved the funny videos, the interactive quizzes, and the fun activities… Being able to pause the recordings and work through the examples was helpful… I would definitely sign my child up for more Science Mom courses."

    — Lisa Greenhut
  • "This was my 13-year-old's favorite class… We looked forward to each new lesson… There were just the right amount of hands-on projects: enough to be engaged, but not so many that I needed special equipment."

    — K.P.
  • "My 9yo and I loved the Genetics class! It was challenging and novel material for us both. The videos explained the concepts so clearly, and the worksheets reinforced core ideas in a way that made the material accessible."

    — Nandini Deo
  • "We are secular homeschoolers, and finding secular science curriculum is a challenge… The content is thorough and engaging… and it was one thing off my plate."

    — Adria Cays
  • "We loved the biology course! My 7 children were 12–2 and they all were engaged… it didn't always work to watch live, so we often watched the replays… Highly recommend."

    — Christina W.
  • "My daughter absolutely loved Biology 2… She learned new terminology and concepts… After completing the course, she even asked if she could watch all the videos again!"

    — Emily W.
  • "My son is 6… he can now tell people about evolutionary concepts, complete Punnett squares, and understands the basics of classifications… This course is absolutely worth it to build a great foundation and love for science."

    — Kari P.
  • "Sound information delivered with a clear love for and understanding of kids… and a deep desire to provide equity in education. Wins all around!"

    — Sarah B.
  • "My kids range from ages 6–11… my 6-year-old can still get something out of the lesson and my 11-year-old is still engaged… I was impressed with the professionalism and how much my kids retained."

    — Hilary T.
  • "My son took your science class for 7th and 8th grade… and he got a 4 on the CA state science test… The last time he took it in 5th grade he got a 2… your curriculum is wonderful!"

    — Allison Stanley
  • "We love your explanations, the pacing of your videos, the activities, and your sense of humor… genuine, non-condescending… We can't wait to do your Biology courses next year!"

    — Heidi (with Luke, Anna, & Nate)
  • "I am seriously crying — I am so thankful for this chemistry course… we cannot afford anything right now… this is beyond a blessing."

    — Carol Brucks
  • "My kids scored at high school level in SCIENCE… That was their highest score in all subjects! I guarantee it's because we spent the past year going through all of your classes."

    — Shannon Wedge
  • "We have a 'problem' with this class… I picked it so they could do it independently, but the lessons are so fascinating I end up watching too… videos that dig into the 'why' of science, beautiful notes, fun projects… and respectful, supportive dialogue."

    — (Name not provided)
  • "My son knew every answer the demonstrator asked at the science museum… All he knows about chemistry (so far) he has learned in your course."

    — Jennifer Thompson Valdyke
  • "My 5th grader scored 98th percentile nationally in Science… after your chemistry, earth science, and bio courses with no additional formal science instruction… Thanks for making him a life-long student of science."

    — Meredith
  • "You are a part of our family… You are helping to plant a seed that learning is enjoyable."

    — Katie
  • "This is an absolute blessing… Thank you for your kindness and the generosity of your patrons. This makes such a difference for our little family."

    — Cassini & Ingrid