Leah Whetzel
Waldorf,MD
Summary
Passionate and innovative Earth Systems educator skilled in creating dynamic, inclusive classroom experiences that drive student success. Adept at leveraging diverse instructional strategies to meet varied learning needs, ensuring comprehensive understanding of material. Known for collaborative approach and adaptability in ever-evolving educational settings, with focus on critical thinking and communication.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Earth Systems Teacher
North Point High School
01.2019 - Current
- Designed district-wide Earth Systems curriculum.
- Delivered differentiated instruction across in-person, hybrid, and virtual formats.
- Mentored new educators and facilitated school- and county-level professional development.
- Maintained student progress records, led parent conferences, and supported extracurricular events.
- Organized and chaperoned science-based field trips for experiential learning.
Earth Science Teacher
Mattawoman Middle School
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Authored 6th-grade science curriculum aligned with standards.
- Served as Science Department Chairperson.
- Developed and delivered staff professional development sessions.
- Sponsored extracurricular programs including the school newspaper.
- Participated in PBIS committee and community involvement initiatives.
Senior Biologist
National Aquarium
05.2006 - 06.2015
- Managed intern and volunteer programs; trained and supervised staff.
- Coordinated with veterinary teams to support animal care programs.
- Provided behind-the-scenes tours and led hands-on learning sessions for student groups.
- Authored and edited educational materials, meeting notes, and reports.
- Conducted public talks and created student-focused programming on conservation and marine biology.
- Maintained internal databases and ensured accurate documentation of animal care and educational outreach.
Education
Masters - Education
Walden University
08.2018
Bachelor of Science - Biology with a Zoology Concentration
Towson University
Towson, Maryland12.2003
Skills
- Earth science curriculum development
- Facilitation of professional development initiatives
- Student Engagement & Classroom Innovation
- Teacher Mentoring & Staff Collaboration
- Facilitation of virtual, hybrid, and in-person learning
- Student progress assessment
- Team leadership
- Earth & Life Science Education (K-12 & Informal)
- Curriculum design
- Instructional Scaffolding & Differentiation
- Autism-Inclusive Programming
- Field Trip & Event Planning
- Microsoft Office Suite & Database Proficiency
- Stakeholder & Interdepartmental Collaboration
- Classroom management
Accomplishments
- Designed and conducted a well-received professional development workshop for Charles County Public Schools staff in August 2022 and August 2024.
- Technology Integration - Participated in technology training courses and trained colleagues in new technology concepts and practices applicable for the classroom.
- Curriculum Design - Designed, developed and implemented daily lessons for 90 students.
- Interactive Learning - Introduced and encouraged debate-style classroom setting to increase student active participation and critical thinking.
Certification
- Maryland State Certified Teacher - Earth and Space Science, 07/01/17
- Certification in Biology, 05/01/16
- Certification in Earth and Space Sciences, 05/01/21
Professional Engagement
- Charles County Public Schools Curriculum Developer
- School and County-Level Professional Development Facilitator
- Teacher Mentor and Instructional Leader
Timeline
Earth Systems Teacher
North Point High School
01.2019 - Current
Earth Science Teacher
Mattawoman Middle School
01.2015 - 01.2019
Senior Biologist
National Aquarium
05.2006 - 06.2015
Bachelor of Science - Biology with a Zoology Concentration
Towson University
Masters - Education
Walden University
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