Faculty and Staff Spotlight: Lee Ferguson
November 5, 2026
For more than 30 years, Lee Ferguson has helped students discover the wonder of science through curiosity, experimentation, and hands-on learning. An Upper School Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Biology teacher, sophomore advisor, educational technology coach, Diversity Coordinator, and Helping Hands Club sponsor, Lee brings a wealth of experience to her work at ESD.
Lee’s path to teaching began with a lifelong love of learning. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Spanish from Southwestern University, a Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Science Education from The University of Texas at Dallas, and a principal certification from Lamar University. After initially pursuing a pre-med track in college, she realized teaching was the right fit. More than 31 years later, she continues to inspire students to explore new ideas and think critically.
In her classroom, Lee believes students learn science best by doing science. She encourages them to ask questions, experiment, evaluate results, and embrace the process of trial and error. That philosophy also inspired her to propose ESD’s Food Science course, connecting scientific concepts to everyday experiences and giving students new ways to explore the subject beyond a traditional classroom setting.
Lee’s influence extends well beyond ESD. She serves on the board of the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) and was recently nominated to serve as the organization’s 2027 president-elect. She also serves on the board of the National Center for Science Education (NCSE) and holds leadership roles with the College Board, including co-chair of the AP Biology Exam Development Committee. Through these positions, she helps shape science education and supports teachers across the country. Her honors include the 2010 NABT Outstanding Biology Teacher Award for Texas and the 2017 NABT Kim Foglia AP Biology Service Award.
Lee’s impact on science education extends far beyond ESD, through her national leadership and dedication to advancing opportunities for students and educators alike. At ESD, she finds that same sense of purpose in the people around her, describing her colleagues as supportive, encouraging, and among the best she has had the opportunity to work with.
ESD celebrates Lee for her lasting contributions to science education, her commitment to student discovery, and her leadership in advancing meaningful learning experiences both on campus and across the country.
