CARA GRACE NIZICH
Oakdale,NY
Summary
Experienced educator with 30+ years of success teaching diverse learners, including adults and at-risk youth. Skilled in curriculum design, technology integration, classroom management, and adult learning principles. Known for developing engaging learning experiences that empower learners and improve outcomes. Strong background in grant writing, program development, and instructional leadership. Dedicated education professional with a focus on student engagement and learning. Demonstrated flexibility and reliability in various classroom settings. Emphasis on team collaboration, achieving results, and adapting to changing needs.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Alternative Evening High School Social Studies Teacher
West Babylon High School
01.1993 - 01.1997
- Taught 11th-grade social studies to at-risk students (ages 16–21).
- Designed flexible instruction to meet varied learning needs.
Adult Education Computer Teacher
West Babylon High School, West Babylon Schools
01.1994 - 06.2007
- Instructed adult learners in computer skills.
- Provided individualized support to help adults gain workplace-ready computer skills.
- Developed project-based assignments, encouraging students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.
Coordinator of Social Studies K-8
Junior High School, West Babylon Schools
01.2000 - 06.2003
- Prepared students for New York State Social Studies exam.
- Improved team productivity with regular communication and progress updates, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Collaborated with other subject coordinators to develop strategic plans aligning with overall district objectives, fostering a unified approach toward shared goals.
- Managed vendor relationships to secure best quality of services and products for departments needs.
Third - Fifth Grade Teacher
John F. Kennedy, West Babylon Schools
01.1995 - Current
- Tenured teacher known for innovation in instructional methods.
- Developed programs using community resources, case studies, simulations, and technology.
- Wrote successful grants to secure funding for schoolwide initiatives.
- Assessed student progress regularly using formative and summative assessments, modifying instruction as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
- Participated actively in professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and best practices in teaching 3-5 elementary grade students.
- Developed strong rapport with students, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
- Promoted literacy skills through guided reading sessions, literature circles, and writing workshops.
- Mentored new teachers on best practices for effective instruction and classroom management techniques.
Education
Specialist Diploma - School Administration and Supervision
Queens College, CUNY
Queens, NY01.2004
M.A. - Liberal Studies
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY01.1997
B.A. - Elementary Education
Dowling College
Oakdale, NY01.1992
Skills
- Adult learning strategies
- Curriculum design
- Technology Integration & Computer Instruction
- Classroom Management & Student Engagement
- Grant Writing & Program Development
- Social Studies & Financial Literacy Instruction
- Team Collaboration & Leadership
- Community engagement
- Group and individual instruction
Accomplishments
- Won numerous awards for exceptional teaching and support to students. Available upon request.
Certification
- NYS School Administrator and Supervisor (SAS)
- NYS Permanent Certification, Elementary Education (N-6)
- NYS Permanent Certification, Social Studies (7–12)
Timeline
Coordinator of Social Studies K-8
Junior High School, West Babylon Schools
01.2000 - 06.2003
Third - Fifth Grade Teacher
John F. Kennedy, West Babylon Schools
01.1995 - Current
Adult Education Computer Teacher
West Babylon High School, West Babylon Schools
01.1994 - 06.2007
Alternative Evening High School Social Studies Teacher
West Babylon High School
01.1993 - 01.1997
M.A. - Liberal Studies
Stony Brook University
B.A. - Elementary Education
Dowling College
Specialist Diploma - School Administration and Supervision
Queens College, CUNY
Similar Profiles
Lucas BedfordLucas Bedford
Head Coach, Middle School Girls’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Junior Varsity Girls’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Varsity Boys’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Middle School Boys’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Middle School Boys’ Baseball at West Babylon School DistrictHead Coach, Middle School Girls’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Junior Varsity Girls’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Varsity Boys’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Middle School Boys’ Volleyball, Head Coach, Middle School Boys’ Baseball at West Babylon School District
MICHELE HERRONMICHELE HERRON
K-1 ELA AIS TEACHER/SUMMER SCHOOL GEN. ED. TEACHER at WEST BABYLON SCHOOL DISTRICTK-1 ELA AIS TEACHER/SUMMER SCHOOL GEN. ED. TEACHER at WEST BABYLON SCHOOL DISTRICT
Christopher PatrunoChristopher Patruno
Music Teacher at West Babylon Union Free School DistrictMusic Teacher at West Babylon Union Free School District
Kristin A. CosterKristin A. Coster
Executive Director Finance R&D & Sustainability at The Estee Lauder CompaniesExecutive Director Finance R&D & Sustainability at The Estee Lauder Companies
Michael WilliamsMichael Williams
Electrical Services Manager -Northeast at GAF EnergyElectrical Services Manager -Northeast at GAF Energy