The Meadows School is thrilled to announce Brianna “Bri” Cotter as our new Science Department Chair for grades 6–12, beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

Since joining the Upper School faculty in 2020, Bri has made an extraordinary impact through her exceptional teaching, thoughtful mentorship, and deep commitment to students. She has inspired students in Honors Biology and AP Biology, where her classes have achieved outstanding results, including a 100% AP Biology pass rate over five years.

Bri also founded the Advanced Topics in Science Research course, creating a dynamic and rigorous program where students pursue authentic, high-level scientific investigation. Under her mentorship, Meadows students have earned sweeping victories across multiple science fair categories, including top honors, multiple overall wins, and advancement to the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). In recent years, her students have achieved international recognition with a 4th place finish, as well as awards from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory and top placements in engineering categories. Her leadership has helped establish The Meadows School as a recognized leader in science research, reflecting the culture of excellence, innovation, and discovery she has so thoughtfully built.

Bri brings both academic excellence and a spirit of innovation to this role. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in Science Education from Western Governors University, a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with emphasis in Biology and Sociology from UNLV, and a Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) certification from UC San Diego.

Just as importantly, Bri is a trusted colleague and collaborative leader who has served as a teaching mentor, a member of the Master Teacher Cohort, and a leader on the Instructional Rounds Committee. She is also a 2024 Nevada Teacher of the Year finalist and was recognized as a U.S. Presidential Scholars Most Influential Teacher.

“Bri possesses that rare combination of teaching excellence, research expertise, and, most importantly, empathy and support for all her students and colleagues,” said Upper School Director Dr. Bob Bowman. “Under her leadership, our students will continue to explore the frontiers of scientific discovery while benefiting from an environment that prioritizes both academic rigor and personal growth.”

We are excited to celebrate Bri as she steps into this important leadership role and look forward to all that lies ahead for our Science Department under her guidance.

Please join us in congratulating Bri Cotter on this well-deserved opportunity.