Bethany Zapata-Wendt
Worth,IL
Summary
Experienced classroom educator and doctoral candidate in Ethical Leadership seeking the role of Adjunct . Committed to fostering academic excellence, supporting teacher growth, and promoting ethical, values-driven decision-making. Passionate about creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where students and educators thrive, and where leadership empowers teachers to reach their full potential
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Adjunct Professor of Education - Affiliated Faculty
Trinity Christian College
Palos Heights, IL
12.2021 - Current
- Instruct undergraduate education courses, including elementary and middle grades literacy, science methods, and general methods.
- Design and implement engaging, standards-aligned lessons that integrate practical classroom strategies and research-based best practices.
Fourth Grade Teacher
Chicago Christian Schools
Oak Lawn, IL
08.2017 - Current
- Plan and deliver engaging, standards-aligned lessons in literacy, math, science, and social studies for a diverse 4th grade classroom.
- Foster a Christ-centered, inclusive classroom environment that encourages academic growth, character development, and positive relationships.
- Assess student learning through formative and summative evaluations, providing timely feedback to support growth and mastery.
- Collaborate with colleagues, parents, and administration to support student success and implement school-wide initiatives.
- Developed engaging lesson plans that align with curriculum standards.
Reading Specialist
Sandridge School District 172
Chicago Heights, IL
- Assess, track, and analyze student reading data to identify needs and guide targeted interventions.
- Provide individualized and small-group reading instruction using research-based strategies to improve literacy outcomes.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers to plan differentiated instruction and model effective reading practices.
- Lead school-wide literacy initiatives and support professional development to strengthen reading instruction across all grade levels.
Education
Doctorate of Education - Ethical Leadership
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL01-2026
Masters of Arts - Education, Reading Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, Illinois06.2012
Bachelors of Arts - Education, Spanish Minor
Trinity Christian College
Palos Heights, Il01-2008
Skills
- Online teaching
- Curriculum creation
- Innovative teaching
- Classroom management
Certification
- PEL, 840723
- National Society of Leadership and Success, 2025
- Cultural Intelligence Facilitator
- Reading Specialist Endorsement
- ELL Endorsement
Timeline
Adjunct Professor of Education - Affiliated Faculty
Trinity Christian College
12.2021 - Current
Fourth Grade Teacher
Chicago Christian Schools
08.2017 - Current
Reading Specialist
Sandridge School District 172
Doctorate of Education - Ethical Leadership
Olivet Nazarene University
Masters of Arts - Education, Reading Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Olivet Nazarene University
Bachelors of Arts - Education, Spanish Minor
Trinity Christian College
Dissertation
Impact of Distinctly Christian Education on Middle School Biblical Identity and Confidence, My dissertation, on the impact of distinctly Christian education on middle school students' biblical understanding and identity, informs my approach to leadership in teaching and learning. It highlights how intentional instruction and supportive school environments help students recognize their value and navigate pressures from social media and the broader culture. In this role, I aim to support teachers in creating experiences that build confidence, resilience, and ethical decision-making, fostering both student growth and a positive, values-driven school culture.
Recent Professional Development
- Research Theory: Principles and Methods - Introduction to research design and methodology to support doctoral-level inquiry
- Research: Qualitative Methods and Techniques - In-depth study of qualitative research approaches
- Research: Quantitative Methods and Techniques - Examination of quantitative research strategies and analysis
- Leadership Paradigms - Exploration of leadership theories, ethical dilemmas, and personal leadership philosophy
- Interpersonal Leadership - Development of interpersonal skills for effective leadership in team and organizational contexts
- Ethics, Values, and Cultural Influences on Social Transformation - Study of ethical decision-making and cultural impacts on leadership
- Intrapersonal Leadership - Focus on personal leadership development across multiple dimensions
- Policy, Politics, and Social Action - Examination of public policy and political factors in ethical leadership
- Leading Change - Strategies for guiding ethical and effective organizational change
- Management and Strategic Planning - Application of strategic thinking and planning in leadership roles