Amire Gates
Chicago,IL
Summary
Highly adaptable and student-centered educator with experience teaching K–8 visual arts and general education classrooms within Chicago Public Schools. Demonstrates strong knowledge of instructional best practices, classroom management, and standards-based curriculum while creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that support the academic, social, and emotional growth of diverse learners. Skilled in differentiating instruction to meet individual student needs, integrating the arts across content areas, and fostering creativity, critical thinking, and student achievement. Recognized for building positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues through effective communication, collaboration, and sound professional judgment.
Overview
1
1
Certification
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Substitute Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
Chicago, IL
01.2025 - Current
- Deliver instruction across core subjects and specials, maintaining continuity of learning in diverse K-8 classrooms.
- Establish clear expectations and strong classroom culture quickly, ensuring focused and respectful learning environments.
- Adapt lessons in real time to meet the needs of diverse learners, including students with IEPs and behavioral supports.
- Apply PBIS and restorative practices to support positive behavior and student accountability.
- Incorporate visual arts strategies—such as drawing, creative response, and project-based learning—to deepen engagement and understanding across content areas.
- Support literacy, math, and social-emotional learning through creative, student-centered approaches.
- Build strong relationships with students and staff, resulting in consistent repeat placements.
Visual Art Teacher
Cedar Rapids Community School District
Cedar Rapids, IA
02.2024 - 06.2025
- Created a safe, inclusive environment that encouraged creativity and self-expression.
- Facilitated hands-on activities promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills using interdisciplinary learning.
- Organized annual student art shows and displays throughout the school and community increasing community/parent engagement by 10%.
- Developed and implemented engaging art curricula for diverse student populations.
- Managed a diverse range of learners, adapting lesson plans to accommodate different abilities and interests.
- Assessed students in accordance with school guidelines, examined assessment data and refined learning plans to differentiate instruction for each student.
- Contributed significantly to school-wide initiatives by participating in committees focused on curriculum development, assessment strategies, or special events planning.
Visual Art Teacher
Erskine Elementary School
Cedar Rapids Iowa
09.2024 - 06.2025
- Designed and delivered 12+ standards-aligned art units per grade level, integrating literacy, math, and history to promote cross-disciplinary understanding.
- Collaborated with 15+ teachers and support staff to connect visual arts with core subjects and deepen student engagement.
- Facilitated a student-designed mural project that strengthened community pride and visibility.
- Developed assessment tools to evaluate student progress and artistic development.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Education
Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids12.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Art History
Cornell College
Mount Vernon01.2009
Skills
- Facilitating Independent Learning
- Art Integration
- Inquiry-Based Learning
- Whole Child Education
- PBIS & Restorative Practices
- Effective Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Collaborative teaching
- Instructional Planning
- Assessment strategies
Certification
- Instructional Empowerment
- Art Integration
- Mandatory Reporter Training
Timeline
Substitute Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
01.2025 - Current
Visual Art Teacher
Erskine Elementary School
09.2024 - 06.2025
Visual Art Teacher
Cedar Rapids Community School District
02.2024 - 06.2025
Bachelor of Science - Education
Mount Mercy University
Bachelor of Arts - Art History
Cornell College