High School Biology Teacher w/ Earth Science and Chemistry Background

Michael S.

Anatomy

Siena College - B.S. Biology, Magna Cum Laude. Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine - human biology, anatomy, biochemistry, immunology, histology, pathology, and chemistry (coursework completed during 2 years in medical school). SUNY Cortland - Masters in Adolescence Education: Biology 7-12

Biochemistry

I have a strong background in Biochemistry through my undergraduate studies in Biology, graduate-level science coursework, and 2.5 years of medical school training. My academic experience included extensive study of metabolism, enzyme function and kinetics, protein structure and function, molecular biology, genetics, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and the biochemical pathways that form the foundation of modern biology and medicine. In addition to my academic training, I am a NYS-certified science educator with 10 years of experience teaching Biology and STEM-related courses. I regularly help students connect biochemistry concepts to physiology, genetics, and cellular processes while developing a deep conceptual understanding rather than relying solely on memorization. My tutoring approach focuses on teaching directly from lecture notes, course objectives, and study materials, breaking down complex biochemical processes into manageable steps and helping students prepare effectively for quizzes, exams, and cumulative assessments. I have experience working with high school, undergraduate, pre-health, and graduate-level students and enjoy helping learners build both confidence and mastery of challenging scientific concepts.

Biology

Siena College - B.S. Biology, Magna Cum Laude. Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine - human biology, anatomy, biochemistry, immunology, histology, pathology, and chemistry (coursework completed during 2 years in medical school). SUNY Cortland - Masters in Adolescence Education: Biology 7-12. 10 years teaching Biology at the high school level.

Chemistry

Siena College - B.S. Biology, Magna Cum Laude (Courses: general chemistry I and II, organic chemistry I and II). Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine - D.O. (Chemistry related courses completed during 2 years in medical school: human biology, anatomy, immunology, histopathology, chemistry and biochemistry). SUNY Cortland - Masters in Adolescence Education: Biology 7-12 (Courses: analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry)

Earth Science

I am an experienced high school science teacher with a strong background in Earth Science instruction, including geology, meteorology, astronomy, and climate systems. I help students master Regents-style questions, data analysis, and constructed responses by teaching clear problem-solving strategies and test-taking skills. My approach emphasizes conceptual understanding, real-world connections, and hands-on lab interpretation to build confidence and long-term retention. I specialize in supporting students who need structure, clarity, and step-by-step guidance to succeed on assessments.

Genetics

I am a high school biology teacher with extensive experience teaching comprehensive genetics units, including Mendelian inheritance, Punnett squares, pedigrees, DNA replication, transcription/translation, and modern genetic technologies. I specialize in breaking down complex genetic concepts into clear, step-by-step explanations that build true understanding rather than memorization. My classroom experience allows me to anticipate common student misconceptions and provide targeted support for homework, exams, Regents/AP preparation, and lab-based learning. I am passionate about helping students gain confidence in problem-solving and applying genetics to real-world biological scenarios.

Microbiology

I have a strong background in the biological sciences, including medical school training and extensive experience teaching and tutoring health science subjects. I currently teach Anatomy & Physiology and have worked with students in Microbiology, Pathophysiology, Biology, and other pre-health coursework. My medical education provides me with a deep understanding of microbiological concepts, including bacteriology, virology, immunology, infectious diseases, and host-pathogen interactions. I help students move beyond memorization by connecting microbiology concepts to real-world clinical and healthcare applications. As an experienced educator, I specialize in breaking down complex topics into clear, manageable concepts and helping students develop effective study strategies for exams and coursework. I have successfully worked with high school, college, nursing, and pre-health students in both classroom and one-on-one settings. Whether you need help understanding course material, preparing for exams, improving grades, or building a stronger foundation for future healthcare studies, I provide personalized instruction tailored to each student's learning style and goals.

Physical Science

I am a certified Science Teacher with over 10 years of experience teaching and tutoring Physical Science, Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. I hold New York State teaching certifications and have extensive experience helping middle school, high school, and college-preparatory students build a strong foundation in scientific concepts and problem-solving skills. My expertise includes matter and energy, atomic structure, chemical reactions, forces and motion, electricity and magnetism, waves, Earth systems, and scientific inquiry. I specialize in breaking down complex topics into clear, easy-to-understand lessons that help students gain confidence and improve academic performance. As a Regents Exam specialist, I have successfully prepared hundreds of students for state assessments, classroom exams, and advanced science coursework. My tutoring approach is engaging, student-centered, and tailored to each learner’s individual needs, combining direct instruction, guided practice, real-world applications, and effective study strategies. Whether a student needs help catching up, preparing for an exam, or excelling in a challenging course, I provide structured support that leads to measurable results and long-term success in science.

Physics

I am a certified Science Teacher with over 10 years of experience teaching and tutoring high school and college-preparatory science courses, including Physics. I have extensive experience helping students master key physics concepts such as forces and motion, energy, momentum, waves, electricity, magnetism, and problem-solving using mathematical models. My approach focuses on building a strong conceptual foundation while developing the analytical and quantitative skills needed for success on quizzes, exams, AP-level coursework, and final assessments. I break down complex topics into clear, manageable steps and tailor instruction to each student's learning style. As a Regents Exam specialist and experienced educator, I have a proven track record of helping students improve their understanding, confidence, and academic performance in science. I provide engaging online instruction, targeted practice, and effective test-preparation strategies to help students achieve their goals.

Physiology

I teach an Anatomy and Physiology course in high school. I have a Masters degree in Adolescence education: Biology 7-12 from SUNY Cortland, I went to medical school for 2.5 years at VCOM, and have a B.S. in Biology from Siena College.

Reading

I am a certified educator with over 10 years of teaching and tutoring experience, helping students develop strong reading comprehension, vocabulary, academic language, and critical thinking skills. Throughout my career, I have worked with middle and high school students of diverse learning abilities, including those who benefit from additional academic support and individualized instruction. My approach focuses on improving comprehension through active reading strategies, vocabulary development, text analysis, inference skills, and evidence-based responses. I help students build confidence by teaching them how to identify main ideas, analyze complex texts, expand academic vocabulary, and communicate their understanding effectively. As an experienced classroom teacher, I understand the literacy demands students face across all subject areas. I create engaging, structured lessons tailored to each student's needs and learning style, helping them become stronger, more independent readers while improving their overall academic performance. I am committed to creating a positive, supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks, asking questions, and developing the skills they need for long-term success.

Regents

I am a New York State certified Science teacher with more than 10 years of experience teaching, tutoring, and preparing students for Regents examinations. Throughout my career, I have helped students strengthen content knowledge, improve test-taking strategies, and build confidence through targeted Regents preparation aligned to New York State standards. My lessons focus on breaking down challenging concepts, analyzing past Regents questions, and developing the skills needed to earn higher scores on exams. Whether a student needs comprehensive Regents review, support with specific topics, or last-minute exam preparation, I provide personalized instruction designed to maximize success.

Soccer

I have over a decade of experience coaching soccer across multiple competitive levels, including serving as a Girls Varsity Soccer Coach and a Boys Varsity Soccer Coach. My technical expertise includes specialized roles such as a Boys JV/Varsity Goalkeeper Coach and leading youth development through the Auburn Arsenal program for U9, U12, and U18 age groups. Throughout my coaching career at various school districts like Auburn, Groton, and Moravia, I have successfully managed Boys and Girls teams at the Modified, JV, and Varsity levels. As a professional educator with a Master's degree, I bring a structured, pedagogical approach to athletic instruction, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and strategic play.