Riley Chen

Middle School Science Teacher

Portland, OR, United States

Professional Summary

Middle school science teacher with 6+ years designing hands-on labs, NGSS-aligned units, and inclusive classrooms for grades 6–8. Known for boosting science fair participation, integrating outdoor learning, and partnering with families and specialists. Seeking a full-time science teaching role in the Portland metro area.

Employment History

Science Teacher (Grades 6–8)

Cascadia Middle School · Portland, OR

Aug, 2021 · Present

• Design and teach NGSS-aligned life, earth, and physical science units for ~150 students across five sections. • Raised science fair participation from 28% to 71% over three years by launching a lunchtime STEM club and peer mentoring. • Built bilingual lab safety guides and differentiated scaffolds so multilingual learners can complete full inquiry labs. • Co-led outdoor learning days at Forest Park; student nature-journal scores improved 18% year over year. • Mentor two student teachers each semester; coordinate with special education and counseling teams on IEPs and 504s.

Science & STEM Teacher

Willamette Valley Charter Academy · Beaverton, OR

Aug, 2018 · Jun, 2021

• Taught integrated science and elective STEM for grades 6–7; wrote shared pacing guides with the grade-level team. • Started an after-school robotics club (VEX IQ); team placed top 10 at regional tournament in 2020. • Converted units to remote/hybrid formats in 2020 with home-lab kits; maintained 94% assignment completion. • Facilitated family STEM nights twice yearly with 80+ attendees.

Environmental Education Instructor (seasonal / part-time)

Portland Parks & Recreation · Portland, OR

Jun, 2016 · Aug, 2018

• Led field ecology programs for youth ages 10–14 at city parks and nature centers. • Wrote curriculum for water-quality testing and urban wildlife modules used across three sites.