Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
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Luis Candelaria Figueroa

Luis Candelaria Figueroa

Las Piedras

Summary

Passionate Secondary Science Teacher with a proven track record at The Palmas Academy and Gedalias Bilingual Academy, enhancing student achievement through inquiry-based learning and differentiated instruction. With nearly five years of experience in education, I have taught a wide range of core science courses—including Physical Science, Life Science, Health, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Environmental Science, and Anatomy & Physiology—as well as elective courses in Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy.

For the past three years, I have proudly served as the advisor to the school’s chess club, combining my passion for education and chess to help students develop strategic thinking and confidence. Throughout my teaching career, I have also provided after-school tutoring in Science, English, and Math, further supporting student growth across academic disciplines.

Overview

5
5
years of professional experience

Work History

Secondary Science Teacher

The Palmas Academy
08.2022 - 05.2025
  • Delivered instruction across multiple science disciplines including Biology, Environmental Science, Anatomy & Physiology, and Health, as well as elective courses in Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy.
  • Administered and interpreted MAP Growth Assessments to measure student progress, identify learning gaps, and differentiate instruction effectively.
  • Designed and implemented differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate a diverse classroom, including English Language Learners and students with IEPs.
  • Led inquiry-based and project-based learning (PBL) units to promote deeper understanding through experimentation, collaboration, and real-world application.
  • Developed and utilized formative and summative assessments to track student performance, provide timely feedback, and inform instructional decisions.
  • Prepared students for standardized assessments, using data-driven strategies to improve outcomes and personalize instruction.
  • Created standards-aligned curricula and engaging lesson plans for both core subjects and electives that fostered academic growth and student engagement.
  • Maintained consistent classroom management practices that encouraged a respectful, organized, and focused learning environment.
  • Fostered open communication and strong relationships with students, parents, and faculty to support student well-being and success.
  • Demonstrated adaptability and creative problem solving, incorporating educational technologies like Google Workspace, Canva, Genially, Kahoot, and Blooket.
  • Provided leadership as Chess Club Advisor, mentoring students, organizing tournaments, and promoting strategic thinking and collaboration.
  • Proposed and collaborated with faculty on interdisciplinary projects, like The Palmas Academy Science Art Mural student experience.

Secondary Science Teacher

Gedalias Bilingual Academy
02.2019 - 05.2020
  • Developed assessments that accurately measured student progress toward mastery of standards and provided actionable feedback for improvement during pandemic outbreak.
  • Delivered instruction across multiple science disciplines including Chemistry, Physics, Life Science, and Physical Science.
  • Demonstrated willingness to accept feedback and make corrections based on advice from peers, parents, and principal.
  • Adapted quickly to virtual teaching during the COVID-19 outbreak by delivering live online classes and recording sessions for asynchronous access, ensuring all students could review lessons and stay engaged regardless of connectivity or schedule challenges.

Education

Chemical Engineering

Universidad De Puerto Rico
Arecibo
07-2019

Skills

  • International Baccalaureate (IB)
  • Curriculum Design (Standards-Based and Backward Design)
  • Standardized Test Preparation (MAP Growth)
  • Inquiry-Based & Project-Based Learning (PBL)
  • Differentiated Instruction (Content, Process, Product, and Learning Environment Differentiation)
  • Formative & Summative Assessment
  • Classroom Management (Preventive, Corrective, Instructional, Emotional, and Relational)
  • Core & Elective Course Instruction
  • Communication & Interpersonal Skills (Verbal and Non-verbal, Relationship Building, and Conflict Resolution)
  • Leadership & Collaboration (Extracurriculars, tutoring, and project proposals)

Languages

Spanish
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)

Timeline

Secondary Science Teacher

The Palmas Academy
08.2022 - 05.2025

Secondary Science Teacher

Gedalias Bilingual Academy
02.2019 - 05.2020

Chemical Engineering

Universidad De Puerto Rico
Luis Candelaria Figueroa