Science
Science is a process of understanding and explaining how the natural world works based on evidence. Curiosity, imagination, creativity and methods of inquiry help drive the scientific process. Science helps us to look at the world with eyes of appreciation. We can see that the natural world has numerous interconnected parts that vary in complexity. By increasing our scientific literacy, we can learn to appreciate the natural world we are part of and learn how to take better care of it as well. Science develops skills such as observing, hypothesis testing, critical thinking, data analysis, collaboration and communication. These skills are transferable and will help our students be successful in other fields of study and better prepared for future careers.
COURSES OFFERED
Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Biology 2/Biodiversity, Chemistry, Environmental Science (Honors & AP), and Physics.
Pre-requisites and further details can be found in COURSE CATALOG.
DEREK CHASE
dchase@uchigh.com
EDUCATION
M.S. Science Education, Montana State University
M.S. Chemical & Life Sciences, University of Maryland
MEd Secondary Education, Vanderbilt University
B.S. Environmental Resource Management, Penn State University
EXPERIENCE
Biology Teacher, St. Stephen's High School, Hickory NC (2012-2014)
Biology Teacher, Bunker Hill High School, Claremont NC (2004 - 2011)
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Catawba County Teacher of the Year (2011 and 2013)
St. Stephen's High School Teacher of the Year (2013)
NC Science, Mathematics, and Technology Outstanding Educator (2011)
NC Science Teachers Association Outstanding Science Teacher (2010)
Bunker Hill High School Teacher of the Year (2007, 2010)
UCHS LEADERSHIP ROLES
Envirothon Advisor
DAVID LEE
dlee@uchigh.com
EDUCATION
B.A. Biology Education, Appalachian State University 1980
M.S Science Education, Montana State University 2003
CERTIFICATIONS
National Board For Professional Teaching Standards AYA Science 2004, renewed until 2024
School Administration, Appalachian State University 2009
EXPERIENCE
Director, Alexander County Schools Alternative Learning Program 2006-2015
Science Teacher, Alexander Central High School 1992-2015
Science Teacher, West Alexander Middle School 1985-1992
Science Teacher, Wilmington Laney High School 1984-1985
Science Teacher, Dorm Parent, The Patterson School 1982-1984
Science Teacher, Edneyville High School 1979-1981
UCHS LEADERSHIP ROLES
Chess Club Advisor
JENNIFER SINCLAIR
jsinclair@uchigh.com
EDUCATION
B.S. Nursing, UNC Charlotte (Charlotte, NC)
Teaching Licensure Completion - Isothermal Community College (Spindale, NC)
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Medical Office Adjunct Instructor - Gaston College, Dallas, NC (2008-2012)
Medical Office Adjunct Instructor - Catawba Valley Community College, Hickory, NC (2012-present)
Health Science Teacher - North Lincoln High School, Lincolnton, NC (2019-2021)
Science Teacher - University Christian High School, Hickory, NC (2021-present)
NURSING EXPERIENCE
Family Practice RN - Atrium Health (2003-2004)
School Nurse - Lincoln County Schools/Gaston County Schools (2004-2008)
Susan G. Komen Grant Writer and RN Case Manager - Lincoln County Health Department (2016-2019)
Covid Cluster Case Manager - Atrium Health (2021-present)