Experience Summary
As a recent Political Science honors graduate, I have a strong background in writing and critical thinking. At Flagler College in St. Augustine, FL I was part of the pre-law program and studied current political issues. I was also a chosen member of the Student Judiciary Council, a body of 9 students that implemented and developed student policies. As a member of the Flagler College Writing Staff, I revised student papers and tutored students in developing effective writing techniques.
As a current high school history teacher in Alachua County, FL I have developed effective teaching strategies that encourage student participation and critical thinking. Of my 175 students for the 2007-2008 school year, 85% made a 75 or higher on the final exam. I have also continued learning new strategies by taking many continuing education workshops and remaining up-to-date with education standards. After two years of teaching, I have received outstanding evaluations and county-wide recognition.
Additionally, my experience as an employee of a Federal SES (Supplemental Education Services) provider has given me extra opportunity to tutor and manage programs dedicated to enhancing student performance. In this program, I tutored students in math and reading from various grades and economic backgrounds. This experience allowed me to adapt my teaching techniques to a large number of students. I also developed curriculum for other tutors within the company and represented the company in public events and throughout the community.
Teaching Style
My experiences have given me opportunity to teach/tutor students of different ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic statuses. At all levels, however, I have realized that all students are capable of success. The key to being an effective teacher/tutor is finding a way to engage the student so that they are active in the learning process. This will most likely differ from student to student, however knowing the variety of methods to try is an advantage of those with experience. Whether discussions, writing, critical thinking questions, or modeling is used, students will respond differently. Being able to effectively evaluate which process works best for the student is what separates the good teachers from the great teaches.