The point of learning algebraic functions just became a little bit clearer to eighth grade students at St. Croix Catholic School. On Friday, January 8, 2016, WCCO TV anchor and meteorologist, Chris Shaffer visited with the eighth graders, who are also currently studying earth science, to illustrate how math is used to model and predict weather patterns. Through his engaging explanations of the daily work he performs as a meteorologist, Shaffer demonstrated the blending of science, math, technology and engineering, and emphasized the importance of developing a sound foundation comprised of these skills. He encouraged the students, as they continue into high school and post-secondary education, to continue to put emphasis on math and science, as well as strive to develop excellent communication skills.
Shaffer was raised in Stillwater and attended the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, where he earned degrees in meteorology and mass communications. He is a proud member of the American Meteorological Society (AMS) and has been awarded the AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) designation.
When asked what piqued his interest in the field of meteorology, Shaffer shared childhood memories with the students, including his family vehicle being chased by a tornado, his family spending a night snowed in at a church, and his great uncle Wilber being struck and killed by lightning.