Autumn Higbee
Mesa,AZ
Work Preference
Summary
Dynamic educator with a proven track record at Mesa Public Schools, excelling in classroom management and fostering student-centered learning. Recognized for enhancing engagement through innovative teaching methods and building strong relationships with students and parents. A dedicated mentor, committed to promoting social-emotional learning and collaboration among faculty.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Teacher
Mesa Public Schools
08.2011 - Current
- Lead Teacher – Next Education Workforce Team
Collaborated with a team of teachers to design and implement interdisciplinary units that integrated multiple subjects, fostering deeper understanding and engagement among students. Took a leadership role in planning, aligning curriculum, and supporting instructional strategies that promoted collaboration and innovative teaching practices. - Safety Committee Chairperson
As Safety Committee Chairperson, I led the planning and execution of all school fire drills and lockdown drills, ensuring student and staff readiness in emergency situations. I trained and presented safety procedures to staff at the beginning of the year, reinforcing compliance with district and state requirements. Throughout the year, I monitored and refined safety protocols—including adjusting fire drill zones—to improve efficiency and safety. I collaborated with staff to ensure adherence to all district rules and maintained a culture of preparedness across the school community. - Bus Behavior Monitor
Supported bus drivers in addressing student behavior concerns by building daily relationships with riders and reinforcing the district’s behavior matrix. Rode bus routes as needed to assist with unruly behavior, reducing suspensions through proactive interventions and family collaboration. Tracked student violations, communicated with families, and worked with students to promote safe and respectful bus conduct. - Science and Social Studies Teacher
Planned and delivered engaging instruction in science and social studies while continuously pursuing professional development through workshops and conferences to stay current with best practices and emerging educational trends. - In-School Suspension & Discipline Support
Served as the primary point of contact for students in In-School Suspension, providing guidance through teachable moments and building positive relationships to support behavior growth. Ensured due process was followed in matters of bus discipline, maintaining fairness and consistency while upholding district policies. - Teacher Mentor
Mentored new teachers by sharing best practices, modeling effective instructional strategies, and providing ongoing guidance to support their successful transition into the classroom and school community. - Instructional Strategies
Enhanced student engagement by incorporating interactive teaching methods, including group projects and hands-on activities, to promote active learning and - Classroom Management
Managed student behavior by setting clear expectations, modeling positive conduct, and consistently enforcing rules and consequences to create a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment.
Teacher
Apache Junction Unified School District
09.2010 - 05.2011
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child''s educational journey.
Education
Master of Arts - Educational Leadership And Management
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ12-2025
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ05-2010
Skills
- Classroom management
- Relationship building
- Critical thinking
- Behavior management
- Positive role model and mentor
- Student-centered learning
- Faculty collaboration
- Empathy and patience
- Data analysis
- Social-emotional learning
- Flexible and adaptive
- Parent and student communication
Certification
SEI certified
Timeline
Teacher
Mesa Public Schools
08.2011 - Current
Teacher
Apache Junction Unified School District
09.2010 - 05.2011
Master of Arts - Educational Leadership And Management
Arizona State University
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Arizona State University
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