Brenda Menken
Loraine,TX
Summary
Dynamic educator with a proven track record at Roscoe CISD, adept at lesson planning and fostering critical thinking. Successfully enhanced student engagement through differentiated instruction and effective classroom management. Committed to cultivating positive relationships with parents and students, ensuring a supportive learning environment that promotes academic success.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Montesorri Instructor and Elementary Teacher
Roscoe CISD
12.2019 - Current
- Developed lesson plans aligned with state standards and tailored to student needs, fostering academic growth.
- Secured accomplished TIA rating for 2025/26, demonstrating commitment to educational excellence.
- Adapted teaching methods based on students' physical, emotional, and intellectual capabilities.
- Facilitated engaging activities to enhance learning experiences.
- Coordinated educational field trips and activities
- Assessed student performance through regular evaluations and feedback sessions.
- Managed classroom behavior using effective positive reinforcement techniques.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding student progress and classroom activities.
- Participated in professional development workshops
Multi-Subject Teacher, Grades 6-8
Classical Conversations
12.2016 - 12.2019
- Implemented classical education methods in classroom instruction.
- Provided feedback to parents regarding student progress and academic achievement.
- Encouraged positive behavior among students through effective classroom management strategies.
- Collaborated with parents to support student learning and development.
- Developed lesson plans and activities to meet the needs of all students in a diverse classroom setting.
- Facilitated meaningful discussions between students in order to promote critical thinking skills.
Multi-Subject Teacher, Grades 3-8
Sovereign Grace Classical School
12.2014 - 12.2015
- Established clear objectives for lessons, units, projects, and assessments.
- Developed lesson plans and selected materials to enhance learning experiences.
- Evaluated student comprehension using formative assessment techniques.
- Created conducive learning environments, enhancing student engagement and participation.
- Enforced school policies, fostering a respectful classroom atmosphere.
- Cultivated positive relationships, strengthening community ties among students, parents, and staff.
- Directed rehearsals to improve actor performances and stage presence.
- Conducted auditions to select performers for each role.
- Conducted meetings to discuss production progress and attain production objectives.
Music Teacher/ Fine Art Coordinator
Grand Prairie ISD
Grand Prairie, Texas
12.1991 - 12.1997
- Chairmained the district music committee to enhance community engagement and support.
- Planned and executed monthly student performances for school and community audiences.
- Collaborated with city leaders to secure performance opportunities for students.
- Coordinated field trips and student competitions to enrich educational experiences.
- Facilitated teacher trainings and workshops to improve instructional strategies.
- Organized district meetings, fostering collaboration with leaders for events and conflict resolution.
- Resolved conflicts positively with parents and community members.
- Partnered with district music educators to promote student instruction and development.
Education
BA - Elementary Education
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX1990
Skills
- Student-centered focus
- Parent communication
- Child development
- Diverse populations
- Lesson planning
- Testing and grading
- Student evaluation
- Strong communication skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Adaptable teaching approach
- Student assessment
- Behavioral intervention
- Interactive learning
- Classroom management
- Critical thinking
- Team collaboration
- Multitasking
- Continuous professional development
- Vocal instruction
- Piano instruction
- Choir direction
Certification
• Lower Elementary, Montessori- North American Montessori School, 2020
• Reading Academy- Region 14, 2021
• Orff/Kodaly Certification- 1992
• Music Specialty Certified Grades 1-8- Abilene Christian University, 1990
• Life Certified- Abilene Christian University, 1990
• Reading Academy- Region 14, 2021
• Orff/Kodaly Certification- 1992
• Music Specialty Certified Grades 1-8- Abilene Christian University, 1990
• Life Certified- Abilene Christian University, 1990
Training
- Classical Education training
Timeline
Montesorri Instructor and Elementary Teacher
Roscoe CISD
12.2019 - Current
Multi-Subject Teacher, Grades 6-8
Classical Conversations
12.2016 - 12.2019
Multi-Subject Teacher, Grades 3-8
Sovereign Grace Classical School
12.2014 - 12.2015
Music Teacher/ Fine Art Coordinator
Grand Prairie ISD
12.1991 - 12.1997
BA - Elementary Education
Abilene Christian University