Get to Know Northside’s High School Science Teacher
Galileo Galilei was put under house arrest in 1633 for challenging the scientific ideologies of his contemporaries. While Trula Hicks, Northside’s high school biology and anatomy/physiology teacher, is in no danger of being jailed, she does think that students today should learn to question commonly held scientific theories. Mrs. Hicks is a valuable asset at our private high school — a teacher who is unashamed of the Gospel of Christ and willing to engage young minds. She loves teaching her students to see the world around them in light of God’s word.
Get to know Mrs. Hicks and find out what she loves most about teaching at our private high school in Charlotte, N.C. — and why even her vacations inspire her to teach.
Let’s jump right in…
What do you enjoy most about teaching at Northside Christian Academy?
I enjoy the interactions with my students. I think our students are engaging, interesting, fun-to-be-with people. I enjoy not only the instructional aspects of my classes, but the personalities of my students as well.
What inspired you to teach science?
I decided to teach science because I fell in love with biology in college. When the opportunity presented itself to teach at a Christian school in Maryland, I fell in love with teaching. The moment I stepped into that first classroom I knew that this was what God designed me to be and do.
How is teaching science different at NCA than at other schools, either public or Christian?
In public schools I would have to limit my instruction by giving only one explanation for the origin of life. At NCA, I am encouraged to present a complete and correct version of the origin of our universe. I would not be able to tell my students the scientific evidence for creation if I were to teach in a public school.
What is one thing you really want your high school students to know before they leave your class?
There are two important things I want my high school students to know. First, there is scientific evidence for biblical creationism. No matter how many degrees a person has behind his or her name, it does not make them correct when they denounce and ridicule the ideas presented in the Bible. Secondly, I want them to know that our world is changing genetically and they need to be well informed about the possibilities and problems of genetic engineering, so they can make informed decisions.
How would you describe your teaching style?
I try to integrate hands-on activities with the use of technology and lecture. I feel like I am a laid-back kind of teacher that still incorporates high expectations for my students.
A few more… just for fun
If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you would want to bring with you and why?
I am assuming that I will already have ample shelter, food and water on this deserted island, so I would want to have my books! I can go anywhere and be in any time with my books. But I would also need to have my husband there to discuss the books or it wouldn’t be any fun.
Who is your hero and why?
I thought these were for fun… My hero is my father, Carlton W. Truax. He taught me so much in my life. He is the one who explained to me about why God loves me and, therefore, why I confessed my sins and accepted Jesus’ gift of salvation. He taught me how to laugh and care and sing. I would not be the person I am today if it were not for him.
Cookies or pies?
Pies. Especially my mother’s lemon meringue pie.
What’s the favorite part of your day?
The favorite part of my day is when I have my whole family with me around the dinner table and we stay and laugh and talk. There is nothing better.
What historical figure would you most love to meet?
Hmmm… there are so many! In science, I would like to meet Gregor Mendel, the father of genetics. In history, I would like to meet Thomas Jefferson. I would love to meet Agatha Christie, the author. I would love to meet Lucille Ball and finally I would love to meet George Mueller, the great man of faith.
What was the last vacation you took and what did you enjoy most about it?
My last vacation was to Washington and Oregon. I went with my son and sister. We visited my brother and his family. We also visited my sister’s son. Seeing the volcano, Mt. St. Helens, was probably the best thing about the trip besides spending the time with family. Mt. St. Helens gives such a clear picture of what devastation can occur during and after a catastrophe. It can then be used to explain, on a small scale, many of the larger evidences of Noah’s Flood found on our planet.
Have more questions for Mrs. Hicks?
Feel free to reach out to her via Northside Christian Academy’s Facebook, Twitter or Google + page!
Learn More About Our Christian High School in Charlotte, N.C.
If you’re searching for a private high school in Charlotte, N.C., we invite you to experience Northside Christian Academy for yourself. Contact a member of our Admissions staff by phone: (704) 596-4074 or online to schedule a tour or simply learn more about Northside Christian Academy.