Palmer Trinity School

Walking onto campus as a candidate for a teaching position is intimidating, especially for a rookie teacher. Naturally, newcomer Brian Mealey was a bit nervous. Yet despite having no formal teaching experience, he managed to wow the toughest critics of all–a classroom of teenagers. When asked to teach a class as part of the interview process, he resorted to what he knew best. He conducted hands-on field techniques with AP Biology students to radio-track simulated terrapins on campus. Here, Brian was in his natural element. Brian took from his own experience on the field: at his first job out of college, he introduced the then-named Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium, to a hands-on reptile program. Thanks to Brian, locals became aware the museum had animals. This eventually led to earning the museum a special endowment gift and the founding of the Falcon Batchelor Bird of Prey Center. Later, he collaborated with biologists at Everglades National Park where he collected blood samples from bald eagles for mercury and DNA analysis, thus beginning a career in raptor research. Over time, his research expanded to different birds and reptiles. "Always pay attention to opportunities because many are easy to miss," he advised, as he reflected over his career. For all his knowledge and experience, Brian is best known for having one of the kindest hearts on campus. "His huge heart did not only extend to his students, but all things living on campus. He cared for everything from orchids to snakes, and often put the needs of others above his own," said fellow science teacher, Evan Apanovitch. In the science department, his classroom was popular among students and visitors. A wide range of animals, such as bearded dragons, turtles and snakes found a home there. The students' interactions with the animals enhanced their educational experience. "His avian lab and snake tagging program are fondly remembered by alumni," said Dr. Leo Llinas, science department chair. In his class, students learned "empathy, compassion, and responsibility." In collaboration with the Science Department, he developed a mark and recapture project of North American racers, eastern rat snakes, and red corn snakes on campus. Also, he helped develop a monitoring station at PTS for migrating birds flying south for the winter. Through Brian's guidance, the school has rescued black vultures, peacocks, and other birds injured from window collisions. After 13 years of leaving his mark at PTS, he's now spreading his wings into retirement. Brian will continue to conduct ecological field research of Florida's imperiled wildlife. While his interest lies in working with raptors (birds of prey) and reptiles, he may leave his comfort zone to offer assistance in monitoring the highly endangered northern right whale. "These past thirteen years have been truly enriching. PTS has become more than just a workplace; it has been a second home filled with laughter, learning, and countless memories," said Brian. "While I may be departing, the memories and lessons learned here will stay with me forever. Palmer will always be part of my soul." TA K I N G F L I G H T: R E T I R I N G F A C U LT Y M E M B E R S B Y B L A NC A MOR A L E S D R . B R I A N M E A L E Y 22 PALMERTRINITY.ORG B I R D S ' S E Y E V I E W

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