Science and Technology

An experienced faculty present courses in basic and advanced life and physical sciences. Trinity School of Midland Upper School students are required to take three years of college-preparatory science, but the majority of Trinity students pursue four years of science. Many successfully sit each year for AP exams in AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, and AP Physics C. Electives offered to Upper School students include a dual-credit Introduction to Engineering, Biophysics, Physics for Engineers, Ecology of the Chihuahuan Desert, Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology, Geology, Advanced Topics in Chemistry, Forensic Science, Advanced Topics in Biology, Astronomy, and Petroleum Technology. Small class sizes, great lab facilities, and the Bring Your Own Device technology program make science at Trinity spectacular.

- Science courses flow chart

Faculty spotlight: Dr. Melissa McHale

Dr. Melissa McHale joined the Trinity Upper/Middle School Science Faculty in 2016. She comes to Trinity via Midland College and Rice University, where she taught engineering, bioengineering and physical science courses. Dr. McHale's thesis research involved cartilage and cardiovascular tissue engineering and she has a keen interest in biomaterials, especially "smart" materials and hydrogels. As a former science editor, Dr. McHale strives to help her students appreciate the importance of accurate and skilled science communication. Most of all, engaging in science research and discussion is a passion for this teacher and she hopes her excitement is catching. Dr. McHale is co- chair of the Trinity Science Department, a member of the Upper School Leadership Team, an Upper School Advisor, and sponsor for the Trinity Robotics Teams.

The McHales were welcomed to the Trinity community in 2012 with the enrollment of their two children. In her time away from school, Dr. McHale enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors with her family and their three rescue dogs, Lucy, Raider, and Bella. The McHales live close-by and often walk to Trinity for sporting events and other activities.

Upper School Science Faculty

List of 4 members.

Melissa McHale

US Biology Teacher/Department Chair

432-697-3281 x 333

Joined Trinity 2016
Mississippi State University - BS
Duke University - MS
Rice University - PhD

Read Bio
Dr. Melissa McHale joined the Trinity Upper/Middle School Science Faculty in 2016. She comes to Trinity via Midland College and Rice University, where she taught engineering, bioengineering and physical science courses. Dr. McHale's thesis research involved cartilage and cardiovascular tissue engineering and she has a keen interest in biomaterials, especially "smart" materials and hydrogels. As a former science editor, Dr. McHale strives to help her students appreciate the importance of accurate and skilled science communication. Most of all, engaging in science research and discussion is a passion for this teacher and she hopes her excitement is catching. Dr. McHale co-chair of the Trinity Science Department, a member of the Upper School Leadership Team, an Upper School Advisor, and sponsor for the Trinity Robotics Teams.

The McHales were welcomed to the Trinity community in 2012 with the enrollment of their two children. In her time away from school, Dr. McHale enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors with her family and their three rescue dogs, Lucy, Raider, and Bella. The McHales live close-by and often walk to Trinity for sporting events and other activities.
Thomas LaFarelle

US Science and Technology Teacher/Strength and Conditioning Coordinator

432-697-3281 x 357

Joined Trinity 2009
UT Permian Basin - B.S.

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I graduated from UTPB in 2005 with a B. S. In Exercise Physiology with a minor in Math. I currently hold the C.S.C.S certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Before coming to Trinity, I taught 2 years in MISD. I have also been a project manager for an environmental company. I began teaching at Trinity in 2009 and have taught Math, Physics, coached baseball and strength & conditioning, and been the Upper School Dean of Students. Teaching at Trinity gives me the opportunity to work with students in creative ways and to challenge them as well. When I’m not teaching I can be found on the baseball and softball fields or the volleyball court with my three wonderful kids.
Thomas Mueller

Assistant Head of School for Academics/US Science Teacher

432-697-3281 x 227

Joined Trinity 2013
University of New Mexico - B.S.
The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK - M.A. Ed

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Mr. Mueller has been teaching at all sorts of different schools for nearly 40 years. These have included public, independent, international, boarding, girls, and coeducational schools. He has been at Trinity School since 2013. At Trinity he has taught Algebra, Ecology of the Chihuahuan Desert, Environmental Science, and Astronomy. He is a volunteer with NASA’s Solar System Ambassador program. He has two grown children, and his wife, Fiona Mueller, teaches Grade 4 in the Lower School. At home, he enjoys gardening and cooking. Mr. Mueller also serves as the Assistant Head of School for Academics.
Rachel Merryman

US Chemistry Teacher/Debate Coach

Joined Trinity August 2021
Kutztown University - B.S. Chemistry
UNC - Wilmington - M.S. Chemistry

Curtis Wong '19

My experience at Trinity has been quite an adventure. It’s been wholesome and fulfilling, and the best aspect of Trinity School is definitely the people. The people have made my experience at this school enjoyable; they are available to help and they make everyone feel welcome.

- Science student holding an electricity panel.

Science and Technology

Faculty spotlight: Dr. Melissa McHale

Upper School Science Faculty

List of 4 members.

Melissa McHale

Thomas LaFarelle

Thomas Mueller

Rachel Merryman

Curtis Wong '19

Trinity School of Midland