Biography

Lori Pawlik has taught physics, AP physics, and Teachers for Tomorrow at Colgan High School for the past three years. She spent the previous eight years of her 11-year public teaching tenure in administration, teaching elementary first, third, and fourth grades, and K-5 STEM at Penn Elementary School. Communicating a love of physics and developing innovative activities that appeal to students are Lori's hallmarks. She initiated the science department’s first problem-based learning opportunities. In her classroom, Lori uses real-world examples, global connections, and active learning to keep students excited and interested in the lessons. She is the 2024 President of the Virginia Association of Science Teachers and is a current Fulbright Fellow. Lori has presented sessions on science topics at several local and state conferences and has co-authored two books with her daughter, a PhD scientist. Lori has a B.S. in physics from the University of Washington, Seattle; an M.S.Ed. in elementary education from Old Dominion University; an Endeavor Leadership Certificate in STEM Education from Teachers College, Columbia University; and a Certificate in K-12 Administration and Supervision from James Madison University. Lori is certified in elementary education, physics, engineering, and administration and supervision.