Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Amari Beard

Chicago

Summary

Passionate and dynamic educator and youth program leader with over 5 years of experience in secondary education, special education, nonprofit management, and community engagement. Skilled in curriculum development, strategic partnership building, and student-centered program design. Adept at fostering inclusive, trauma-informed learning environments and supporting diverse learners with individualized goals. Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus in Special Education. Seeking opportunities to expand impact in education, transition planning, or nonprofit leadership roles.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

11th & 12th Grade ELA & Special Education Teacher

CICS Longwood High School
10.2021 - Current
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Presented progress reports, data analytics, and program outcomes to school leadership and external stakeholders.
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Implemented school policies and state-aligned curriculum to enhance academic success and student development.
  • Built strong relationships with students and parents to ensure a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Grant Coordinator

Union League Boys & Girls Clubs
09.2019 - 07.2024
  • Cultivated and maintained relationships with donors, aligning their philanthropic goals with organizational initiatives.
  • Implemented Moves Management strategies to strengthen donor engagement and increase long-term contributions.
  • Assisted in the development of marketing materials for fundraising initiatives and donor outreach.
  • Organized fundraising events and donor stewardship initiatives to support community engagement and revenue growth.
  • Maintained detailed grant reports, tracking fund allocation, compliance, and donor impact metrics.

OneGoal Program Director

CICS Longwood High School
08.2022 - 06.2024
  • Managed donor-funded student development programs, ensuring proper allocation of financial resources.
  • Developed initiatives promoting student leadership, mental well-being, and career readiness.
  • Designed donor communication materials to highlight student achievements and program impact.
  • Facilitated donor communications and reporting, showcasing program impact to stakeholders.
  • Led team training and professional development to enhance program implementation and effectiveness.

Interim Site Director

Union League Boys & Girls Clubs
07.2018 - 06.2022
  • Managed a team of professionals, ensuring high-quality performance and adherence to company standards.
  • Provided leadership and guidance to staff through ongoing training initiatives, boosting employee retention rates.
  • Developed strategic plans for site growth, resulting in increased revenue and profitability.
  • Managed donor relations, event planning, and fundraising efforts to secure financial support for youth development programs.
  • Cultivated partnerships with school administrators to enhance student engagement and success.
  • Designed and implemented donor recognition programs to acknowledge and retain key supporters.

Education

Master of Arts - Teaching

National Louis University
Chicago, IL
05-2026

Master of Arts - Media Broadcast

Central State University
Wilberforce, OH
05-2018

Skills

  • Special Education Instruction & IEP Implementation
  • Behavior Management & Restorative Practices
  • Curriculum Development & Academic Advising
  • Transition Planning & Postsecondary Readiness
  • Nonprofit Program Management & Grant Reporting
  • Family Engagement & Community Outreach
  • Cross-Functional Team Collaboration
  • Technology Integration (Google Suite, Microsoft Office, Logic Pro X, Final Cut Pro)

Certification

  • Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) Certified
  • Illinois Paraprofessional Educator License
  • Illinois Substitute Teaching License

Timeline

OneGoal Program Director

CICS Longwood High School
08.2022 - 06.2024

11th & 12th Grade ELA & Special Education Teacher

CICS Longwood High School
10.2021 - Current

Grant Coordinator

Union League Boys & Girls Clubs
09.2019 - 07.2024

Interim Site Director

Union League Boys & Girls Clubs
07.2018 - 06.2022

Master of Arts - Teaching

National Louis University

Master of Arts - Media Broadcast

Central State University