Lindsey J. Ruscak
Abington,MA
Summary
A strong education empowers students to think critically, problem solve and respect the differences of all stakeholders. I believe possessing these skills is essential for students to become effective members of their communities, both inside and outside the classroom.
Professional 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
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Bartender
Ruocco’s Restaurant
Boynton Beach, FL
07.2025 - 01.2026
Bartender
Bungalow Bar & Grille
Boynton Beach, FL
11.2024 - 07.2025
Grade 7 Science Teacher
Furnace Brook Middle School
Marshfield, MA
08.2023 - 06.2024
- Facilitated hands-on experiments to enhance student understanding and interest in scientific concepts.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that foster critical thinking skills among students.
- Participated in professional development workshops to stay updated on current research findings and best practices in science education.
- Provided constructive feedback on assignments, helping students improve their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in science.
- Communicated with students and parents regarding academic progress, assignments, and behavior.
Grade 8 Oceanography & Grade 7 Science Teacher
Cyrus Peirce Middle School
Nantucket, MA
08.2020 - 06.2023
- Developed engaging lesson plans that adhered to state curriculum standards.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that promote critical thinking.
- Planned, prepared, and taught lesson plans, giving students individual support.
- Delivered interactive lessons to help students comprehend complex concepts.
- Incorporated project-based learning into the curriculum, challenging students to apply scientific principles in real-world situations while developing teamwork skills.
Grade 6, 7 & 8 Lead Teacher
Creative Arts Charter School
San Francisco, CA
08.2013 - 06.2014
- Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on classroom management and instructional strategies.
- Organized school-wide art exhibitions highlighting student creativity and community engagement.
- Established positive relationships with parents through regular communication regarding student progress, collaborating on strategies for academic success at home and school.
- Guided student teachers and teaching aides in classroom management, leading by example and thoroughly answering questions.
- Organized field trips that enriched classroom learning experiences by connecting students with real-world applications of course concepts.
Grade 6 & 7 Science Teacher
Wellesley Middle School
Wellesley, MA
08.2004 - 07.2012
- LOA 2013 -2014, returning AY August 2014 - June 30, 2020
- Developed and implemented engaging science curricula aligned with state standards.
- Facilitated hands-on experiments to enhance student understanding of scientific concepts.
- Collaborated with colleagues to integrate interdisciplinary approaches into lesson plans.
- Assessed student performance through formative and summative evaluations, providing targeted feedback.
- Organized science fairs and competitions to promote student interest in STEM fields.
- Advocated for resource acquisition to enhance laboratory facilities and educational materials.
Grade 6 Science Teacher
Brown Middle School
Newton, MA
08.2003 - 07.2004
- Implemented innovative teaching methods to foster student interest in STEM subjects.
- 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.
- Led after-school tutoring sessions for struggling learners; provided personalized support that contributed to marked improvements in overall understanding of course material.
- Used exams and standardized assessment tools to measure student progress.
Education
Masters - Organizational Management
Endicott College
Beverly, MAMasters - Education
University of Massachusetts
Boston, MABachelor of Science - Environmental Science
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MASkills
- Possess Massachusetts 9-12 Admin Certification
- Professional teaching license in Massachusetts (General Science 5-8)
- SEI endorsed in Massachusetts
- 20 years general education teacher of record in both public and charter schools
- Sound content area knowledge
- Utilize various methods in order to evaluate student understanding in the content area
- Ability to develop and or modify content, including developing performance based assessments
- Familiar with Massachusetts state science standards and teaching practices, including NGSS and Open Sci Ed standards and practices
- Critical thinking in order to design hands-on and inquiry based curriculum in conjunction with evaluating students’ ability to demonstrate understanding of state standards
- Ability to partner with community members and collaborate with colleagues to enhance educational experiences in and out of the traditional classroom space
- Member of the Wellesley Middle School School Improvement Planning team
- Open SciEd Ambassador: Furnace Brook Middle School 2023-2024
- Island School Teacher Conference August 2018, Eleuthera, Bahamas
- Organization of physical spaces, lessons scope and sequences & student performance records
- Effective written communication and public speaking skills
- Inherit ability to multitask
- Strong multitasking
- Customer service
- Highly reliable
- Team player attitude
Timeline
Bartender
Ruocco’s Restaurant
07.2025 - 01.2026
Bartender
Bungalow Bar & Grille
11.2024 - 07.2025
Grade 7 Science Teacher
Furnace Brook Middle School
08.2023 - 06.2024
Grade 8 Oceanography & Grade 7 Science Teacher
Cyrus Peirce Middle School
08.2020 - 06.2023
Grade 6, 7 & 8 Lead Teacher
Creative Arts Charter School
08.2013 - 06.2014
Grade 6 & 7 Science Teacher
Wellesley Middle School
08.2004 - 07.2012
Grade 6 Science Teacher
Brown Middle School
08.2003 - 07.2004
Masters - Organizational Management
Endicott College
Masters - Education
University of Massachusetts
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science
University of Massachusetts