Samuel James Lahr
Spring Lake,North Carolina
Summary
Dedicated Science Educator with 13+ years of experience in middle and high school settings. North Carolina SP2 licensed with certifications in Middle Grades, High School Science, and Elementary Education. Skilled in engaging diverse learners through hands-on, data-driven, and student-centered instruction while fostering collaborative learning environments. Experienced in curriculum development, classroom management, STEM integration, and technology use to enhance learning. Proven leader as a Science Lead and mentor, focused on improving student performance and growth.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
7th Grade Science Teacher
East Lee Middle School
01.2023 - Current
- Science Lead for the department
- Developed engaging lesson plans integrating hands-on experiments and real-world applications.
- Differentiate instruction for diverse learners
- Analyze student data to improve outcomes
- Mentor new teachers and support lab implementation
- Contributed to the school earning the Purple Star Designation
Science Teacher
Lee County High School
01.2020 - 01.2023
- Taught Biology, Earth Science, and Physical Science
- Facilitated hands-on experiments to enhance student understanding of scientific concepts.
- Adapted instruction for both in-person and virtual learning
- Collaborated in PLTs to analyze data and improve instruction
- Served as Beginning Teacher Mentor
Science Teacher
Bragg Street Academy
01.2014 - 01.2019
- Developed innovative STEM curriculum (Bright Ideas Award recipient)
- Established school makerspace and science lab
- Led implementation of Apex Learning and digital tools
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary projects and curriculum enhancements.
4th Grade Teacher
Armstrong Elementary
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Implemented hands-on science instruction and inquiry-based learning
2nd Grade & Department Chair
Janie C. Hargrave Elementary
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Led grade-level team and supported curriculum planning
- Organized school-wide STEM initiatives (garden, astronomy, projects)
Heavy Equipment Operator/HVAC Specialist
United States Air Force
01.1997 - 01.2005
- Served nine months overseas in direct support and maintenance of base facilities during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
- Maintained essential facilities and infrastructure.
- Contributed to mission success in high-pressure environments
Education
M.Ed. - Curriculum & Instruction (Science K–14)
Concordia University
B.S. - Elementary Education (Science Emphasis)
Grand Canyon University
A.S. - Science
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Skills
- Curriculum & Lesson Design
- Differentiated Instruction
- Classroom Management
- Data-Driven Instruction
- STEM Integration
- Project-Based Learning
- Teacher Mentorship & Collaboration
- Technology Integration (Canvas, AVID, Apex)
Accomplishments
- 2026 Bright Ideas Grant – Outdoor Story Walk Project
- Science Department Lead, East Lee Middle
- President, FIRST Robotics Boosters Club
- Bright Ideas Award (STEM Innovation)
- DonorsChoose & Multiple STEM Grants Recipient
- AVID Mentor & Presenter
- Modeling Instruction (NC State) Participant
- Presidential Award Nominee (PAEMST)
LEADERSHIP, AWARDS & GRANTS
2026 Bright Ideas Grant – Outdoor Story Walk Project, Science Department Lead, East Lee Middle, President, FIRST Robotics Boosters Club, Bright Ideas Award (STEM Innovation), DonorsChoose & Multiple STEM Grants Recipient, AVID Mentor & Presenter, Modeling Instruction (NC State) Participant, Presidential Award Nominee (PAEMST)
Timeline
7th Grade Science Teacher
East Lee Middle School
01.2023 - Current
Science Teacher
Lee County High School
01.2020 - 01.2023
Science Teacher
Bragg Street Academy
01.2014 - 01.2019
4th Grade Teacher
Armstrong Elementary
01.2013 - 01.2014
2nd Grade & Department Chair
Janie C. Hargrave Elementary
01.2012 - 01.2013
Heavy Equipment Operator/HVAC Specialist
United States Air Force
01.1997 - 01.2005
B.S. - Elementary Education (Science Emphasis)
Grand Canyon University
A.S. - Science
Fayetteville Technical Community College
M.Ed. - Curriculum & Instruction (Science K–14)
Concordia University