Open to opportunities

Sonia Burkholder

@soniaburkholder

Message

Experienced educator passionate about curriculum development and student engagement.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to innovate in curriculum design and foster student engagement in a collaborative environment.

I am an experienced educator with 20 years of proven success in inspiring learners and driving academic achievement. My expertise lies in curriculum development, instruction, and student engagement, which I am eager to leverage in a dynamic resource position. Throughout my career, I have created and implemented standards-based curriculum focusing on STEM-related activities, utilizing authentic texts and inquiry-based labs to foster critical thinking among students.

In my current role as a Science Program Specialist for the Lake County School District, I have guided and vetted teacher-created curriculum, directed the Lake County Science and Engineering Fair, and provided professional development to diverse audiences. My commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as I have also worked as an independent contractor, creating science content for middle school students and tutoring English to students in China. I am passionate about educating others and continuously learning new skills to enhance my teaching methods.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Science Program Specialist

Current

Lake County School District

Jan 2015 - Present (10 years 5 months)

Created and implemented standards-based STEM curriculum, including scope, sequence, and blueprints for grades 6-12. Directed county-wide science and engineering fairs and STEAM Bowls, while also composing midyear and quarterly assessments. Provided extensive teacher support and training on curriculum, instruction, and collaborative learning strategies.

Curriculum Development Assessment Design Project Management Educational Leadership

Science Teacher

Lake County School District

Aug 2007 - Present (17 years 10 months)

Constructed and delivered standards-based lessons, inquiry labs, and STEM projects with differentiated instruction for grades 6-8. Supervised the STEM club and Science Fair activities, serving as Science Department Chair for five years.

STEM Projects Classroom Management Educational Leadership Science Fair Coordination

Science Teacher

Orange County School District

Aug 2004 - Present (20 years 10 months)

Managed classroom instruction and implemented creative lesson plans for diverse student populations in 7th grade science. Focused on differentiating instruction to meet varied academic levels.

Classroom Management Lesson planning

Animal Care Specialist

Sea World Park

Jun 1997 - Present (28 years)

Provided public education on marine animals and mentored junior staff members. Performed comprehensive husbandry responsibilities for marine mammals, including diet preparation, medicine administration, and behavior modification.

Mentorship