Sarah Chavez
San Antonio
Summary
Dedicated Science Educator and Chemical Safety Officer with over a decade of experience at BASIS San Antonio. Proven track record in advanced curriculum development, national exam question authoring for the ACS, and student research mentorship, leading students to top-tier success in regional, state, and international science competitions.
Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
National Examinations Task Force Member
American Chemical Society (ACS) / USNCO
01.2025 - Current
- Selected for the national task force to author questions for the 2026 US National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO) exams.
- Collaborate with university professors and experts to maintain national academic standards.
- USNCO Coach: Provided high-level mentorship and problem-solving strategies for top-tier chemistry students (2024–2025).
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
AP Chemistry Exam Reader
College Board
01.2022 - Current
- Evaluate national free-response assessments and apply scoring insights to improve classroom instructional design and student performance.
AP, Organic & Honors Chemistry / Science Educator
BASIS San Antonio – Shavano Campus
San Antonio, TX
01.2013 - Current
- Advanced Instruction (Current): Instruct AP Chemistry and capstone-level Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, integrating AACT-vetted research projects into the curriculum.
- Chemistry Curriculum: Previously instructed 7th Grade, 8th Grade, and Honors Chemistry, developing a high-standard pipeline for advanced coursework.
- Biology Instruction: Taught 6th and 7th Grade Biology with a specialized focus on human systems, ecology, evolution, and animal classification.
- Scientific Review Committee (SRC) Founder: Established and lead the school’s SRC to ensure safety and rigorous regulatory compliance for all student research.
- Science Fair Club Administrator: Mentored students to exceptional performance at ARSEF, TXSEF, and ISEF; secured three organizational sweepstakes awards for overall excellence (2026).
- Chemical Safety Officer: Manage laboratory safety protocols, chemical inventory, and institutional compliance.
- Departmental Mentor: Training junior faculty in laboratory management and research coordination.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry, Minor in Biology
University of The Incarnate Word (UIW)
San Antonio, TX12.2011
Skills
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
Affiliations
- Memberships: American Chemical Society (ACS), American Association of Chemistry Teachers (AACT)
- Laboratory: Organic Synthesis, Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Safety & Inventory Management
Timeline
National Examinations Task Force Member
American Chemical Society (ACS) / USNCO
01.2025 - Current
AP Chemistry Exam Reader
College Board
01.2022 - Current
AP, Organic & Honors Chemistry / Science Educator
BASIS San Antonio – Shavano Campus
01.2013 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry, Minor in Biology
University of The Incarnate Word (UIW)
SCIENCE LEADERSHIP & STEM ADVOCACY
- Science Fair Excellence: Led campus to multiple organizational sweepstakes awards for excellence in research and student performance.
- Elite Competitor Mentorship: Consistently guide students to reach the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and the Texas Science and Engineering Fair (TXSEF).
- Chemistry Major Pipeline: Successfully mentored dozens of students who transitioned into Chemistry and Biochemistry majors at leading universities.
- Community Liaison: Coordinate student recognition and participation logistics for the local ACS Awards Banquet.