CTE INSTRUCTORS
Dominique Otiepka
Dominique Otiepka is a teacher of Environmental Science at High Tech High School and teaches Water Resources, Apiculture, Agriculture, Hydroponics, Introduction to Ethnobotany, and runs a Work Based Learning opportunity for the seniors in the Environmental Science major.
Mrs. Otiepka graduated with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies from Ramapo College of New Jersey, where she did extensive plant research on wildflowers and their pollinators, soil toxicity and hydroponics. She also obtained her Masters of Science degree from Colorado State University. She has worked with multiple indoor agricultural farms throughout her career and is thrilled to introduce students to various opportunities early in their academic careers. She strives to bring awareness to the importance of environmental issues and share her love for the beauty of the natural world with her students.
Carmela Schlitzer
Mrs. Carmela Schlitzer is an Environmental Science instructor and teaches AP Environmental Science, Geospatial Technology, Urban Ecology, Public Policy, and Meteorology. For her undergraduate degrees she attended William Paterson University and graduated with a BS in Environmental Science, a BA in Earth Science, as well as Minors in Italian and Biology. After graduation, Mrs. Schlitzer worked as a Environmental Scientist at a consulting firm. Since being an educator was always her calling, Mrs. Schlitzer received a Masters in Education from Saint Peter’s University. For 12 years she taught at Saint Peter’s Prep and began teaching at High Tech High School in May of 2023 where she is also an advisor for the Environmental Club and FFA. Mrs. Schlitzer’s goals for her classroom are to create a positive learning environment that encompasses the mission of environmental education, teaching the students as a whole, and to have fun! Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Schlitzer enjoys spending time with her three daughters and husband, hiking, watching sports, going to concerts, and cooking. cschlitzer@hcstonline.org
Dr. Shelly Witham
Dr. Shelly Witham teaches Physical Geology, Soil Resources, Environmental Field Research I & II, and A.P. Environmental Science. Dr. Witham is a graduate of Purdue University and holds a B.S. in Solid Earth Geology and an M.S. in Science Education. Dr. Witham also holds a PhD in Education from Rutgers University and has been teaching at High Tech High School since 2001. Dr. Witham's goals in the classroom include engaging students in the field of science with the ultimate goal of helping them become self-motivated, lifelong learners. Dr. Witham is the faculty adviser for the award-winning Envirothon team." with "Currently, Dr. Witham is the 2026-2027 Hudson County Teacher of the Year.
Adriana Medina, School Counselor
