Mr. Michael-James L. Ellis has been teaching high school science in the Payson Unified School District since 2010. Although his background is in Physics, he has taught various classes over the years, including AP Physics, Physics, Physical Science, Life Science, all of the online science classes, and even some online middle school science classes. He also taught Engineering from 2013 to 2016 and mentored and coached the district's first-ever FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics team from 2013 to 2020. In 2017, he was awarded the FIRST Robotics Arizona Regional Teacher of the Year award. Mr. Ellis has also collaborated with Dr. Russell Genet from EAC to develop a dual-enrollment Astronomical Research course for the students of Payson High School. This initiative aims to provide a valuable opportunity for young and enthusiastic students to delve into the intricate realm of scientific research, gain practical experience, and publish in a genuine scientific journal before graduating from high school.
Mr. Ellis served as the District's Emergency Response Coordinator for two years. He is the distance learning tutor and test coordinator for students in the Tonto Basin area. During the summer, Mr. Ellis works full-time at Whispering Hope Ranch as a ranch hand and camp staff member. Additionally, he is a staff scientist with the Fairborn Institute.
Mr. Ellis believes that one of the most advantageous aspects of the education profession is the ability to engage in personal learning and growth. He is driven by the desire to acquire knowledge and explore new discoveries. When he has free time, Mr. Ellis enjoys a variety of hobbies, including astronomy, woodworking, model railroading, photography, videography, playing music (drums, guitar, bass), camping, kayaking, fishing, collecting Lego mini-figures, books, and movies. Mr. Ellis also adores animals, and as a result of growing up in New Hampshire, loves hockey and is a big Boston Bruins fan. He is also a licensed amateur radio operator (K1IMW).
Mr. Ellis graduated from Sanborn Regional High School in Kingston, New Hampshire. He has a C.P. in Photography and an A.A.S. in General Technology from Mohave Community College in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. He also holds a B.S.Ed. in Physics from the College of Engineering, Forestry, and Natural Sciences at Northern Arizona University. Currently, he is pursuing his Master's in Astronomy Research.