LIZ KIM
La Crescenta
Summary
Dynamic science educator with strong background in fostering positive and inclusive classroom environment and student-centered instruction. Effectively guided students through their academic journey, enhancing their learning experiences and personal growth. Demonstrated effective classroom management and tailored lesson plans to meet diverse student needs.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Project Manager – 6th Grade EcoHome Unit
WESTRIDGE SCHOOL
02.2025 - 03.2025
- Planned and executed a cross-disciplinary project on sustainable housing, guiding students in designing eco-friendly home models.
- Coordinated with faculty across multiple disciplines to ensure curriculum alignment.
- Facilitated student discussions on environmental impact, global sustainability, and responsible engineering.
Science & Homeroom Teacher
WESTRIDGE SCHOOL
08.2019 - 07.2024
- Designed and implemented an inquiry-based, NGSS-aligned curriculum for 5th and 6th grade students.
- Served as a 6th grade homeroom teacher, mentoring students in academic and personal development.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse learning styles and ensure all students could succeed academically.
- Organized field trips and guest speakers to expose students to real-world applications of scientific principles.
8th Grade Science Instructor – Energy & Technology
LA CAÑADA SCHOOL DISTRICT
06.2019 - 08.2019
- Taught a four-week course on energy and technology, incorporating hands-on investigations.
- Guided students through engineering challenges, including catapult building, solar oven construction, and windmill design.
- Developed student teamwork skills through collaborative projects and problem-solving exercises.
Science Chair & Teacher
ST. MARK’S SCHOOL
09.2002 - 07.2019
- Represented the organization at public events, advocating for its mission and values in the community.
- Managed Family Science Night and organized annual science fairs to promote community engagement in STEM.
- Worked closely with faculty and parents to support student development and academic achievement.
Science Instructor
POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL
06.2014 - 09.2017
- Taught Animal Science 101, Exploring Science Through Experiments, and Creative Deconstruction courses to students.
- Designed hands-on laboratory experiments to enhance student understanding of biological concepts.
Science Instructor
JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY, CENTER FOR TALENTED YOUTH
06.2002 - 09.2006
- Taught advanced courses for highly gifted students, including Be a Scientist, Examining the Evidence, Through the Microscope, and Biology of the Senses,
- Designed and implemented interactive science curricula to engage and challenge students.
Youth Minister
ST. GREGORY
06.1997 - 06.2003
- Built rapport with teenagers and guardians by delivering engaging Sunday school lectures and hosting events for high school ministry members.
- Coordinated retreat programs and summer camps to foster student development and leadership.
Research Assistant
UC Davis – Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology
01.1996 - 01.1997
- Conducted field research on ecosystem dynamics, data analysis, and environmental conservation.
Research Assistant
UC Davis – Department of Evolution & Ecology
01.1995 - 01.1996
- Designed and executed a behavioral study on crows, presenting findings to faculty.
Education
M.A. - Science Education
California State University, Los Angeles
12.2006
B.S. - Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology
University of California, Davis
12.1997
Skills
- Creating Engaging Life Science Learning Experiences
- Empowering Girls in Science Education
- Technology Integration in Education
- Commitment to Diverse Educational Practices
- Effective Mentoring Skills
- Engagement with Current Science Education Practices
- Mentored Students in Practical Science Applications
Education Credentials
California Single Subject Teaching Credential – Biological Sciences (California State University, Los Angeles)
Research Professional Development
- UC Davis – Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology, Research Assistant, 1996 – 1997, Conducted field research on ecosystem dynamics, data analysis, and environmental conservation.
- UC Davis – Department of Evolution & Ecology, Research Assistant, 1995 – 1996, Designed and executed a behavioral study on crows, presenting findings to faculty.
- National Association of Episcopal Schools Biennial Conference, Presenter, Inquiry-Based Science
- Professional Development In-Service at Crestview Preparatory School, Presenter, Inquiry-Based Science Curriculum
- National Science Teachers Association Conferences, Attendee, 2003–2024
- Greater Los Angeles Teachers of Science Association Conferences, Attendee, 2003–2016
- National Association of Independent Schools, People of Color Conference, 2004–2008
- Asian Educators Alliance National Conference, 2006
Fluent in
Korean
Interests
College Counseling, Birding, Outdoor Education
Timeline
Project Manager – 6th Grade EcoHome Unit
WESTRIDGE SCHOOL
02.2025 - 03.2025
Science & Homeroom Teacher
WESTRIDGE SCHOOL
08.2019 - 07.2024
8th Grade Science Instructor – Energy & Technology
LA CAÑADA SCHOOL DISTRICT
06.2019 - 08.2019
Science Instructor
POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL
06.2014 - 09.2017
Science Chair & Teacher
ST. MARK’S SCHOOL
09.2002 - 07.2019
Science Instructor
JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY, CENTER FOR TALENTED YOUTH
06.2002 - 09.2006
Youth Minister
ST. GREGORY
06.1997 - 06.2003
Research Assistant
UC Davis – Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology
01.1996 - 01.1997
Research Assistant
UC Davis – Department of Evolution & Ecology
01.1995 - 01.1996
M.A. - Science Education
California State University, Los Angeles
B.S. - Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology
University of California, Davis
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