For the past decade, Tristan Wells has been teaching one of the most advanced academic subjects at Camas High School (CHS): physics.

Wells has been teaching science at CHS since 2011. He spent his first few years at the school teaching physical science before taking over the physics department in the 2014-2015 school year. 

CHS has three different levels of physics: a normal physics course and two AP physics classes. AP Physics 1 is algebra-based, whereas the higher level AP Physics C is calculus-based. Wells is the sole teacher of all three levels. 

Wells’ passion for physics developed as a child. From a young age, he gravitated towards the sciences. 

“I’m super inquisitive as a person. I like knowing how things work and why things happen the way they do,” Wells said.  

AP Physics classes are some of the most difficult offered in American high schools. Historically, AP Physics 1 has one of the lowest passing rates on the AP test of any AP course offered by College Board. In 2024, only about 46% of AP Physics 1 test takers across the nation got a 3 or above (3 being a passing score). At CHS, that number was 88.46%. 

There is a reason for this discrepancy in the data. Wells takes specific measures to ensure that his students are able to not only succeed, but excel. 

“I try to have a good variety of different styles of questions, some lab activities and group quizzes where people can help each other out as well as trying to fit in some work time when I can help out,” Wells said. 

“I think Mr. Wells is a really great teacher,” CHS junior and AP Physics 1 student Lyra Bajaj said. “When you ask him questions, he explains them in simple terms so that they make sense.”

Wells proves there is much more to teaching than a basic knowledge of the subject and an education degree; a genuine passion for the job is just as important.

“I like the interaction of having people actually learn stuff,” Wells said.  “You can tell when people actually have picked up on something and it’s because of you that they [understand it]”.

It is vital to have a support system in a subject as vigorous as physics. Wells helps students to overcome obstacles while reminding them how satisfying learning can be. 

“Mr. Wells is an amazing teacher. He always makes me smile,” CHS junior and AP Physics 1 student Florence Liang said.