Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Timeline
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Carol O'Brien

Newtown Square,PA

Summary

Dynamic Upper School Science Teacher with a proven track record at The Haverford School, skilled in curriculum development and inquiry-based learning. Enhanced student engagement through innovative lesson plans and collaborative learning environments, fostering critical thinking and scientific inquiry. Committed to integrating technology and accommodating diverse learning styles for optimal student success.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience

Work History

Upper School Science Teacher

The Haverford School
08.1999 - Current
  • Taught Physics, Conceptual Physics, AP Physics B, Honors Biology, Biology, Chemistry, and Topics in Chemistry.
  • Planned, prepared, and taught lesson plans, giving students individual support.
  • Delivered interactive lessons to help students comprehend complex concepts.
  • Participated in professional development workshops to stay updated on current research findings and best practices in science education.
  • Incorporated project-based learning into the curriculum, challenging students to apply scientific principles in real-world situations while developing teamwork skills.
  • Advised 6-10 9th graders each year
  • Coordinate placement of students with advisors
  • Enhanced classroom environment for effective learning by incorporating hands-on activities and real-world applications of scientific concepts.
  • Established clear expectations for behavior and academic performance; consistently enforced policies while maintaining fairness and respect toward all students.
  • Provided constructive feedback on assignments, helping students improve their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in science.
  • Encouraged student participation in laboratory experiments to enhance scientific knowledge.
  • Communicated with students and parents regarding academic progress, assignments, and behavior.
  • Created interactive activities to engage student interest and curiosity in scientific concepts.
  • Utilized diverse instructional approaches to accommodate different learning styles.
  • Improved student comprehension by employing diverse teaching strategies and adapting lesson plans to meet individual needs.
  • Collaborated with other teachers to integrate science into other curricula.

Upper School Science Teacher

The Latin School of Chicago
08.1996 - 08.1999
  • Skills as above.
  • Taught Honors Integrated Biology and Chemistry, Standard Biology, Conceptual Physics and AP Physics B.
  • Used exams and standardized assessment tools to measure student progress.
  • Championed a positive classroom culture where questions were encouraged and mistakes viewed as learning opportunities, boosting overall student confidence in their abilities as scientists.
  • Participated in organizing a week long off campus learning experience per school guidelines.
  • Advised 10 students each year

Education

Master of Science - Secondary Science Education

Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA

No Degree - Medical Microbiology And Bacteriology

Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA

Skills

  • Collaborative faculty engagement
  • Inquiry-based learning
  • Technology integration
  • Classroom management
  • Curriculum development
  • Enforcing rules and expectations
  • Lesson planning
  • Learning style accommodations
  • Collaborative learning
  • Instructing Biology, Chemistry, and Physics

Affiliations

  • NSTA
  • ASCD

Timeline

Upper School Science Teacher

The Haverford School
08.1999 - Current

Upper School Science Teacher

The Latin School of Chicago
08.1996 - 08.1999

Master of Science - Secondary Science Education

Saint Joseph's University

No Degree - Medical Microbiology And Bacteriology

Thomas Jefferson University

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Boston College
Carol O'Brien