Before arriving at BCM, she taught grades 1–5 in the Houston Independent School District, both as a classroom teacher and as a Science Lab Specialist. Ms. Tharp is a primary author and teacher-trainer on BCM¹s curriculum development projects. She also coordinates several of the College¹s teacher professional development programs. She was a Master Teacher in the Rice University School Mathematics Project, President of the Metropolitan Association of Teachers of Science of Houston, and President of the Texas Council for Elementary Science. Ms. Tharp served on the National Science Teachers Association's Committee for Professional Development. She is a Fellow of the National Science Leadership Academy and is active in many other professional organizations.