West Linn High School

Welcome to Mr. DelFatti's Web Page.

Google Classroom

I have been a science teacher at West Linn High School for the past 31 years.  During that time, I've had the opportunity to teach many of our different science classes, ranging from Biology to Chemistry and Physics.  This year, I am teaching AP Physics 1 and AP Physics 2 in a half-time teaching role.  I will be at school on B days.

I graduated with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry from Willamette University, but spent a lot of time in many other math and physics classes.  I received my teaching certificate at Willamette as well, but only after spending some time out there in the "real" world.  During this time before teaching, I worked as a seasonal biologist for a consulting firm and the U.S. Forest Service.  Most of my work involved collecting data for environmental impact statements.  I can do a mean Spotted Owl call.  During the winter months, I worked as a ski instructor at a small ski resort in Eastern Oregon.  In fact, it was while working as a ski instructor that I realized teaching could be a possible career I'd like.

A few years ago, I participated in a grant program that teams high school science teachers with college professors doing research.  I was fortunate to work alongside Dr. Carl Wamser at PSU working on research in organic chemistry and am a 2nd author on a published research paper about the kinetics of a particular group of molecules used as light absorbers in synthetic photosynthesis.  The work by Dr. Wamsers lab was focused on organic solar cell technology.  This experience was amazing and has brought so many real life applications into my teaching.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and being as active as possible.   I enjoy backpacking in the summer, and skiing in the winter, though my main hobby is fly fishing.  In the fall, any free time I can get is often spent somewhere on the Deschutes River pursuing steelhead with a fly rod.