MEET THE TEAM
What makes Cairn different? It's our team. We're a small but mighty group of two teachers, each holding a PhD and bringing over 20 years of experience to the table.
Dr. Sonja Calderara
Dr. Sonja Calderara is a distinguished educator, curriculum specialist, and STEM advocate with over two decades of experience in public and charter school education. With a deep-rooted passion for fostering academic excellence and innovation in the classroom, Dr. Calderara has dedicated her career to empowering educators and students alike through dynamic instructional practices and curriculum development initiatives.
Education and Academic Background: Dr. Calderara holds a Doctorate degree in Science Education (NC State) which is complemented by a Master's Degree in Curriculum & Instruction (UNCG). Her academic journey reflects her commitment to advancing the field of education through research, scholarship, and practical application of pedagogical principles.
Professional Experience: With a career spanning over 20 years, Dr. Calderara has held various leadership roles within the realm of education, demonstrating her versatility and expertise across multiple disciplines. As a curriculum coach for all core content subjects, she has spearheaded initiatives to enhance instructional practices and align curriculum with state standards, ensuring a rigorous and engaging learning experience for students. Dr. Calderara's specialization in science education is evident in her role as a science coach for grades 3-8, where she has provided targeted support and professional development opportunities for educators to improve science instruction and student achievement. Her impact extends to the administrative realm, having served as the Curriculum Director for the Academy for Science & Design, overseeing curriculum development and implementation for grades 6-12.
Teaching Experience and Academic Contributions: In addition to her leadership roles, Dr. Calderara has extensive experience as a classroom teacher, having taught middle school science, social studies, language arts, and high school biology and physical science. Her dedication to student-centered learning and interdisciplinary instruction has enriched the educational experiences of countless students, fostering a love for learning and inquiry. Dr. Calderara's expertise in STEM education and curriculum development has been recognized on a national level, as evidenced by her presentations at esteemed conferences such as the NCSSS (National Consortium of Secondary STEM Schools) conference in 2022, various STEM Education conferences at NC State, and NCSTA (North Carolina Science Teachers Association) conferences. Her insights and innovative approaches to STEM education have inspired educators driving positive change within the educational landscape.
Dr. Renée MacDonald
Dr. Renée MacDonald is a highly accomplished educator, scientist, and mentor, with a diverse background spanning polymer chemistry, secondary education, and science curriculum development. With over 18+ years of experience in both industry and academia, Dr. MacDonald has made significant contributions to science education and student enrichment programs, leaving an indelible mark on the next generation of scientists and scholars.
Education and Academic Achievements: MacDonald holds a Doctorate degree in Polymer Chemistry from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell, where her research involved the enzymatic degradability of poly(lactide) : effects of chain stereochemistry and material crystallinity. Her academic journey exemplifies her unwavering commitment to scientific inquiry and innovation, laying the foundation for her multifaceted career in education and research.
Industry Experience: Prior to transitioning into the field of education, Dr. MacDonald garnered valuable experience in the industrial sector, where she applied her expertise in polymer chemistry to address real-world challenges and drive technological advancements. Her contributions to research and development initiatives have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of materials science, earning her recognition as a leader in her field.
Educational Leadership and Teaching Experience: With a passion for nurturing young minds and fostering a love for science, Dr. MacDonald embarked on a career in secondary education, where she has spent the past 14 years dedicated to shaping the academic trajectory of students in public and charter schools. As the science chair at the Academy for Science & Design, she played a pivotal role in developing and implementing innovative science curricula that exceeded state standards and fostering a culture of academic excellence. MacDonald's instructional expertise spans a wide range of scientific disciplines, including middle school chemistry, advanced chemistry, AP chemistry, organic chemistry, conceptual and advanced physics, advanced biology, algebra II, and pre-calculus. Her dynamic teaching style, coupled with her deep subject knowledge, has inspired countless students to pursue careers in STEM fields and pursue their academic aspirations with confidence.
