It was with the deepest sadness that I read of Dr. Swenson's passing....

We met rather serendipitously, through her daughter, Maren, when we both were teaching for the Muroc Unified School District.

I was then an over achieving Science teacher when Maren mentioned that her mother had written a unique science textbook. "Would you be interested in adding this to your library?", I was asked.

"Sure! Anything to supplement my classroom materials!"

Of course the book was insightful. There was never a hint of "talking down" to the reader . I remember how the materials challenged the student (and teacher!), and never underestimated their abilities or assumed less than a curious mind.

Later, I had come to discover that much the same could be said about the author.....

It seemed that anyone involved in education knew of, respected, and admired Penny Swenson. Her loss will not only be heartbreaking to her family, but to all those who knew her, and knew of her.

Her contributions and dedication will live on in all of us.

With our deepest sympathy,
Jay Blank and Family