Karen Cipolla

     My name is Dr. Cipolla. I have been a chiropractor for 20 years but gave up practice many years ago for health reasons. I began my teaching career at Fairfield University, teaching Anatomy and Physiology part-time. I also spent many years at home with my children, who are now in college.  I have been teaching at ASU West for four years. Before that, I spent two years teaching middle school science and math, and though I enjoy teaching that age group, they have their challenges. In December 2023, Dr. Cipolla earned a Certificate in Learning Design and Process Improvement and will attain her Master's in Learning Design in December 2024. She is also a CASE Fellow at Iowa State University for the 24/25 academic year.

     Knowledge gives us strength and power. It is a tool to be nurtured and grown in students. It is something that should be accessible to all. Every student is a unique individual with unique challenges. These differences are what give the classroom its beauty, and they are also what make the journey of education so interesting. I seek to be a partner in this journey, assisting students in the process of discovery and learning. I believe that education is more than just filling a cup of knowledge; it is a process that encompasses gaining knowledge as well as the formation of a person. Education should challenge students to be their best selves as well as increase their understanding of the world. It is not my goal to dump facts and information onto a student to sort out in order to learn but to guide a student to discover their strengths and weaknesses, to solidify their process of learning, and to assist them in asking the questions that will help them to continue that process throughout their lives. Through the use of classroom conversations, questioning, case studies, and experiences, I seek to be a guide and partner in my student’s journey. To do this, I utilize respect, care, accountability, and kindness, and I expect to receive the same in return.