Lukas Suska
San Diego,CA
Summary
Dynamic science educator adept in NGSS-aligned curriculum design and fostering inclusive, inquiry-driven learning environments. Excelled in mentoring educators and piloting innovative science programs, significantly enhancing STEM accessibility and engagement. Skilled in technology integration and outdoor education, embodying passionate and effective leadership in science pedagogy.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Middle School Science Teacher & Grade Level Lead
Magnolia Science Academy San Diego
San Diego , CA
08.2020 - Current
- Design and implement NGSS-aligned science curricula, integrating phenomena-based instruction, inquiry-driven learning, and hands-on investigations
- Serve as Grade Level Lead, overseeing curriculum planning, mentoring teachers, and ensuring instructional effectiveness
- Pilot new science curricula, providing feedback and best practices for program improvement
- Teach SeaPerch Underwater Robotics, guiding students through hands-on marine engineering, robotics design, and problem-solving
- Lead equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives to ensure culturally responsive teaching practices and STEM accessibility
- Mentor student teachers, providing instructional guidance and professional development in science pedagogy
- Integrate emerging educational technologies into STEM instruction to enhance engagement and accessibility
Outdoor Educator
Positive Adventures
San Diego
09.2016 - 12.2019
- Designed and facilitated experiential learning programs that connected students to science, environmental sustainability, and conservation
- Adapted curriculum to diverse learning needs in field-based settings, ensuring equitable access to hands-on science experiences
- Engaged with community members at outreach events promoting awareness about local social and environmental issues.
- Through guided field studies, hands-on investigations, and place-based learning, I encouraged students to observe, identify, and analyze local biodiversity, fostering an appreciation for environmental conservation and ecological relationships.
Volunteer Paleontology Lab Tech
San Diego Natural History Museum
San Diego
07.2016 - 09.2016
- Assisted in fossil research and identification, interpreting geological findings for public audiences.
Education
Teaching Credential - Noyce Scholar Recipient
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA12-2019
Bachelor of Arts - Geology & Chemistry
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
Arcata, CA06-2015
Skills
- NGSS-aligned curriculum design and assessment
- Development of phenomena-based and inquiry-driven lesson plans
- Piloting and evaluating new science curricula for effectiveness
- Designing and leading outdoor education programs
- Implementing culturally responsive teaching practices
- Designing accessible, differentiated instruction for diverse learners
- Familiarity with local flora, fauna, and ecosystems to foster environmental literacy
- Engineering instruction and STEM competition coaching
- Mentoring and training student teachers and fellow educators
- Overseeing grade-level teams, facilitating collaboration and curriculum planning
- Managing program logistics, event planning, and volunteer coordination
- ESOL certified
- Technology utilization
Certification
- California Single Subject Teaching Credential - Earth Science/ General Science
- EL Authorization/CLAD Certificate
- CPR/AED & First Aid Certification
- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Training
Awards
2022 STEAM Educator of the Year - Magnolia Public Schools
Timeline
Middle School Science Teacher & Grade Level Lead
Magnolia Science Academy San Diego
08.2020 - Current
Outdoor Educator
Positive Adventures
09.2016 - 12.2019
Volunteer Paleontology Lab Tech
San Diego Natural History Museum
07.2016 - 09.2016
- California Single Subject Teaching Credential - Earth Science/ General Science
- EL Authorization/CLAD Certificate
- CPR/AED & First Aid Certification
- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Training
Teaching Credential - Noyce Scholar Recipient
San Diego State University
Bachelor of Arts - Geology & Chemistry
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
Similar Profiles
Kim GeigerKim Geiger
Teacher at Magnolia Science Academy 1Teacher at Magnolia Science Academy 1
Francisco BanalesFrancisco Banales
Oce & Chaperone at Magnolia Science AcademyOce & Chaperone at Magnolia Science Academy
Amy KramerAmy Kramer
Adjunct Clinical Faculty at Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, University of San DiegoAdjunct Clinical Faculty at Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, University of San Diego