#USA #Sacred Heart Prep #Atherton #Diane Sweeney #Campbell Biology

Diane Sweeney Selected as Lead Author for Campbell Biology Teacher's Guide

Diane Sweeney, an esteemed AP Biology teacher at Sacred Heart Preparatory (SHP), has recently been recognized as the lead author of the upcoming Teacher's Guide to the renowned Campbell Biology textbook, now in its 13th Edition. This manual is considered the definitive resource for college and AP-level biology education worldwide, making Sweeney's appointment a significant achievement in her career.

With over three decades of experience in teaching AP Biology and a strong background in molecular biology, Sweeney plans to integrate her extensive classroom insights and innovative teaching practices into this guide. She aims to provide a resource that is not only informative but also practical for educators around the globe. As she describes it, her contributions are grounded in techniques she's developed and honed in her daily teaching practice, ensuring that they resonate with fellow instructors.

"I'll be sharing the exact useful activities, labs, and teaching tricks I use with my students," Sweeney articulated, emphasizing the hands-on nature of the guide.

Sweeney's journey to becoming a textbook author began in the late 1990s, spurred on by her winning a prestigious teaching award at the National Association of Biology Teachers conference. At that event, she garnered attention from Neil Campbell, the famed author of biology textbooks, who encouraged her to draft materials for Pearson's Biology Exploring Life series—her first venture into curriculum development.

In her forthcoming Teacher's Guide, Sweeney will focus on memorable teaching methods that engage students actively. Among her creative approaches is the use of role-playing to illustrate cellular processes and the application of choreographed movements to explain molecular structures. For instance, to teach students about carbohydrates, she incorporates baking bread in SHP's teaching kitchen, infusing sensory learning with valuable biological concepts.

"I used to call them 'visual tattoos'—a way of engaging students' brains in a way they won't soon forget," Sweeney noted, highlighting her mission to make learning both meaningful and memorable.

The publication of the Teacher's Guide is anticipated in summer 2026 and represents a fitting culmination to Sweeney's illustrious teaching career. She has also co-created an educational film series called Author of Life, alongside curricula designed for BioLogos Integrate, which seeks to harmonize faith and science education.

"I am delighted to share this legacy of my 30 years' teaching AP Biology with a larger audience," Sweeney expressed, signifying her passion for science education and her commitment to shaping future educators.

Sacred Heart Schools, located in Atherton, California, is well-regarded for its academic rigor and commitment to holistic education, serving students from preschool through twelfth grade. As a part of this esteemed institution, Sweeney’s achievements not only highlight her individual talents but also reinforce SHP’s reputation for excellence in education and teacher preparation.