SANDY MCDONOUGH

Highly Experienced Secondary Science Educator

About

Highly accomplished Secondary Science Teacher with 24 years of experience fostering student success and engagement in diverse learning environments. Adept at designing and implementing rigorous, hands-on curricula, integrating advanced technologies, and employing differentiated instruction to meet the needs of over 1,000 students across various grade levels. Proven ability to elevate academic performance, cultivate critical thinking, and build strong collaborative relationships with students, parents, and faculty.

Work Experience

Secondary Science Teacher

North Salem School District

Oct 2000 - Jan 2024

North Salem, NY, US

Led comprehensive science education for grades 7-12, developing engaging curricula and fostering a dynamic learning environment for over two decades.

  • Designed and implemented dynamic science curricula for 9-12th graders (and 7th graders for one year), integrating hands-on activities, multimedia, and STEM project-based learning to enhance student engagement and comprehension.
  • Elevated student academic performance by continuously monitoring progress, administering diverse assessments, and providing individualized support, leading to consistent improvements in standardized test scores and classroom outcomes for hundreds of students annually.
  • Cultivated a positive and inclusive classroom environment for over 1,000 students across 24 years, utilizing positive behavioral interventions (PBIS) and fostering strong relationships with students, parents, and faculty to support holistic growth.
  • Pioneered and managed advanced science courses, including AP Biology and Chemistry Honors, preparing students for higher-level education through rigorous instruction and complex laboratory experiments, including dissections.
  • Streamlined classroom operations by maintaining meticulous student records, grades, and attendance, and effectively coordinating group projects and field trips to provide enriching, real-world learning experiences.
  • Actively participated in professional development, staying current with educational trends and integrating new teaching methodologies to continuously enhance instructional effectiveness and student outcomes.

Science Teacher

Pawling High School

Sep 1997 - Oct 2000

Pawling, NY, US

Instructed Regents Biology for 9th-10th grade students, focusing on foundational scientific principles and preparing them for state examinations.

  • Taught Regents Biology to 9-10th graders, effectively preparing students for state-mandated examinations and achieving strong pass rates.
  • Developed and delivered engaging lesson plans that covered core biological concepts, fostering student understanding and participation in classroom discussions.
  • Managed classroom activities and student progress, ensuring a supportive learning environment conducive to academic achievement.

Laboratory Technician

CDI Contractors

Apr 1993 - Aug 1995

Hopewell Junction, NY, US

Provided critical laboratory support for product development and quality control, ensuring precise testing and efficient operations.

  • Conducted comprehensive test and validation setups for components and systems, meticulously recording data to provide critical feedback on product performance.
  • Managed laboratory inventory and supply chain, ensuring continuous availability of necessary reagents and materials for uninterrupted experimental workflows.
  • Adhered to stringent safety protocols and maintained impeccable laboratory cleanliness, ensuring compliance with industry standards and a safe working environment.
  • Prepared specialized specimens and solutions for experiments and external transport, supporting accurate analysis and regulatory submissions.

Education

Education

SUNY New Paltz

Sep 2000 - May 2002

New Paltz, NY, US

Environmental Health

SUNY ESF

Sep 1991 - Apr 1995

Syracuse, NY, US

Environmental Health

SUNY Cobelskill

Sep 1987 - May 1989

Cobleskill, NY, US

Skills

Instructional Design & Delivery

  • Lesson Planning
  • Curriculum Development
  • STEM Programs
  • AP Lesson Planning
  • Differentiated Science Instruction
  • Multimedia Integration
  • Online Instruction
  • Instruction Modifications
  • Group and Individual Instruction
  • STEM Project-Based Learning (PBL)
  • Instructional Planning

Student Engagement & Support

  • Student Engagement
  • Learning Strategies
  • Learning Style Accommodations
  • Student Support
  • Multi-Cultural Awareness
  • Discussion Facilitation
  • Parent and Student Communication
  • IEP Progress Tracking
  • Student Records Management
  • Testing and Grading
  • Formative Assessments and Standard-Based Grading
  • Progress Evaluations

Classroom & Lab Management

  • Classroom Instruction
  • Classroom Supervision
  • Lab Management
  • Laboratory Management
  • Specimen Handling
  • Test Proctoring
  • Enforcing Rules and Expectations
  • Classroom Technologies Integration
  • Google Classroom
  • Field Trip Coordination

Collaboration & Professional Development

  • Faculty Collaboration and Support
  • New Teacher Training
  • Program Planning
  • Reporting and Documentation
  • Documentation and Reporting
  • Syllabus Development

Subject Matter Expertise

  • Biological Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Life Science
  • Core Curriculum Development