Iolani School - John Kay

AP Biology

John C. Kay earned his undergraduate degree in Biology from Carthage College and Master’s degrees in Marine Biology and Botany from the University of Hawaii and the University of Oregon, respectively. Since 1962 he has been on the faculty of 'Iolani School. During the summers, he has served as Site Director and Academic Dean of Science and Mathematics for the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth in Lancaster, PA (1987-95) and Director for “Academic Connections” at UCSD (2001-03). He has led annual AP Biology oceanographic cruises in Hawaiian waters.

He has been active in the College Board’s Advanced Placement Biology program for most of his educational career, teaching AP since 1974 and serving as table and question leader for the AP Biology Exam. Mr. Kay has given over 30 AP workshops nationally and internationally. In 1996 he was elected as the Western Region representative to the College Board National Academic Council. He has contributed to and reviewed a long list of biology textbooks, magazines, Internet sites, and educational materials. His list of national teaching awards includes the NABT Outstanding Biology Teacher (1974), a Certificate of Honor from NSF, NSTA and NCFM for the Presidential Awards of Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching (1989), the Tandy Technology Scholars Award in Teaching (1992), the Siemens Award for Advanced Placement (2000), as well as numerous awards honoring his leadership and service to 'Iolani, Lion’s International, and the State of Hawaii.