Statement of Qualifications

Katharine Edmonson brings over 25 years of experience in teaching science, having served with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools in Kern County. Her dedication to education has been recognized with “Teacher of the Year” awards on two occasions. In addition to her extensive teaching background, Katharine occasionally works as a seasonal biologist, surveying for endangered species in the San Joaquin Valley and the Mojave Desert.

Prior to becoming a credentialed instructor, Katharine worked under Dr. Aryan Roest as the curator of the mammalogy collection at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. In this role, she meticulously cleaned and catalogued numerous specimens, significantly contributing to the University’s collection.

Katharine’s passion for skulls and science began in high school and was further developed through her volunteer work at the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum’s warehouse in Vernon, CA. There, she collaborated with graduate students to clean and catalog a diverse range of specimens, including skins, skulls, and bones from various animal species, encompassing both marine mammals and exotic animals.

Her extensive experience in both educational and field settings, combined with a lifelong dedication to the study of animal anatomy and ecology, underscores her deep commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and engaging students in the wonders of the natural world.

The skull collection is permitted through the Department of Fish and Wildlife as an Individual Scientific Collecting Permit GW-240230006-24028-001.