Challenges are opportunities for growth.
I wanted to shift my career to something I might truly love, but I didn't expect to be student teaching in the middle of a pandemic. Planning and instruction all through a computer screen was far from the idyllic image of teaching I had constructed when I decided to pursue this dream. However, I would not change the experiences I have had throughout this incredible year. The way in which teachers, staff, and most importantly, students met this challenge with grit and grace is an inspiration that I will carry with me throughout my future career.
PROFILE
A career-changing professional shifting to education with an estimated completion of a Master for Arts in Teaching from Pacific University ESOL/STEM program in May 2020. Skills gained in 15 years of the footwear industry including leadership, problem solving, and a positive attitude in challenging situations have translated well to the last year of student teaching and learning during the pandemic. Looking forward to working on applying these skills as well as those gained in my graduate program and student teaching to a long-term learning community.
EXPERIENCE
Student Teacher, Inza R Wood Middle School (WLWV District)
2020-PRESENT
Partnered with mentor to develop meaningful coursework and instruction in a CDL/Hybrid model to meet 7th grade science standards. Supported student classwork in grade level/accelerated 7th grade math. Areas of developing interest include phenomenon-based science inquiry, addressing specific needs of English language learners, and drawing as a tool for student understanding. Volunteered at Homework Club to develop relationships and assist students needing additional help.
Director of Operations, Chinook Asia LLC
2014-2020
Key member of management team involved in decision making for company initiatives, and responsible for communication and implementation company wide as well as specific to the sales and service department. Negotiated business agreements, facilitated maintenance and transfer of trademarks and patents. Human Resource leader for employee relations and benefits selection. Continued the responsibilities of Service Team Leader.
Service Team Leader, Chinook Asia LLC
2011-2014
Managed team of 5-8 customers service representatives responsible for customer satisfaction, and overseas factories’ production communication. In addition to recruitment, onboarding, and training of new sales and service staff, developed “Footwear 101” coursework for team providing monthly education opportunities for staff development. Reduced liabilities dot to data entry error by 90% in first year, and lower rate became the new annual standard. Maintained key accounts as customer service representative in addition to the leadership role thorugh 2013.
Account Manager, Chinook Asia LLC
2009-2013
Developed relationships and managed daily contact with customers and overseas factories resulting in reduced incidence of customer requested escalation to the management team. Managed and maintained production timelines of casual footwear. Negotiated liabilities due to manufacturer defect or delay
EDUCATION
University of Oregon
1998-2004
B.S. with general science major. Biology and chemistry minors.
Pacific University
2020-Present
Expected graduation in May 2021with Master of Arts in Teacing in ESOL/STEM Education
I'VE LEARNED THAT I STILL HAVE A LOT TO LEARN
-MAYA ANGELOU