About Shoshana
Shoshana Leffler, an accomplished academic and educator, blends a profound expertise in chemistry and developmental genetics with a vibrant passion for teaching and community service. Born and raised in Bronx, NY, Shoshana exhibited early academic promise, earning recognition as a semifinalist in the prestigious 2005 Intel Science Talent Search during her high school years, and having her artwork published in notable publications.
Shoshana pursued an A.B. in Chemistry at Princeton University, followed by a Ph.D. in Developmental Genetics at New York University. Her doctoral research led to significant contributions in the field, including the development of a mathematical model that predicts childhood brain cancer occurrences, published in the Bulletin of Mathematical Biology.
In her professional career, Shoshana has demonstrated a deep commitment to education, working as a Chemistry Teacher at New Visions Charter School and the NYC Department of Education. She has redefined chemistry education by integrating real-world applications and inquiry-based learning, significantly improving student engagement and understanding. Her innovative approaches include using Elon Musk’s quest for better batteries as a teaching tool and managing a popular cooking/chemistry club that uses culinary concepts to explain chemical reactions.
A highlight of Shoshana’s teaching includes creating inquiry-based lesson plans in chemistry for Title 1 schools (schools in which children from low-income families make up at least 40 percent of enrollment). The inquiry-based lessons allow students to access the chemistry curriculum that is normally abstract and inaccessible.
News & Interviews
Revolutionizing Education with New York’s Shoshana Leffler
Innovative Teaching Strategies: Lessons from Inquiry-Based Approach
Understanding the Cerebellum Math Model - A Deep Dive into Its Development and Applications
Bronx Educator Shoshana Leffler Revolutionizes STEM Education with Innovative Teaching Models
Inquiry-Based Learning in Title 1 Schools: Transforming High School Chemistry Education
The Influence of Natural Scenery on Meditation and Spiritual Practices
Real-World Applications of Chemistry in Title 1 Inquiry-Based Learning
Shoshana Leffler: Integrating arts into STEM education
How Art Enhances Learning in STEM Subjects
Blog
AI for Differentiated Instruction: Customizing Learning for Every Student
In today’s diverse classrooms, educators face the challenge of meeting the needs of students with varying learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds. Differentiated instruction—a pedagogical approach that tailors learning experiences to individual students—has long been a goal for educators striving to provide equitable access to education. However, implementing differentiation effectively can
Engaging and Affordable Chemistry Experiments for Regents Chemistry Classrooms
As a chemistry educator, I am always looking for ways to make science not only engaging but also accessible for my students—especially those in Title 1 schools. Teaching chemistry in a budget-conscious environment can be challenging, but the great news is that you don’t need expensive lab equipment to spark
Empowering Girls and Minority Students in Low-Income Schools through Computer Science Education
Computer science has the power to change lives. It opens doors to opportunities in fields that are not only lucrative but also critical to driving innovation and progress in our world. However, when we look at who is benefiting from these opportunities, a clear gap emerges. Girls and minority students,
Cerebellum-Inspired Teaching Strategies for Teaching Computer Science to Diverse Learners
As an educator with a background in developmental genetics and a strong belief in the power of inquiry-based learning, I’ve witnessed firsthand how diverse students can thrive when teaching strategies align with their unique learning needs. One area that has captivated my attention is the cerebellum, a part of the