A twelfth-generation native of Vinalhaven Island, math and English teacher Lee Pedersen often teaches the same students at Vinalhaven High School from 7th through 12th grade. Being an instructor in a one-room schoolhouse has enabled Mr. Pedersen to revise the traditional math curriculum, teaching algebra and geometry simultaneously. Consequently, Mr. Pedersen is able to teach more classes and at the same time provide each student with individualized attention. Mr. Pederson's approach has resulted in a surge in student math performance and interest. In addition to teaching, Mr. Pedersen advises an award-winning student math team that travels and competes throughout the year. Mr. Pedersen was named Maine Teacher of the Year in 1999.
In 2002, he left the island of Vinalhaven to teach at the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, where he was the Department Chair for 10-years. He continued to be the Maine All Star Math Team Coach for nationals from 1991 to 2018. Also, he became an AP Calculus mentor for Maine teachers. He also built a program that gave Maine teachers support beyond the workshop experience. In 2018, he retired from teaching after 42-years of teaching.
2017 University of New Hampshire - M.S.
1976 University of Maine - Machias, B.A.
