Carolyn Alter
Gladstone,MO
Summary
Experienced educator and support specialist skilled in guiding learners and mentoring peers through personalized instruction, empathetic coaching, and clear communication. Recognized for simplifying complex tasks, fostering confidence, and resolving challenges with patience. Trusted by students, families, and managers. Eager to utilize background in teaching, peer support, and technical guidance to support homeschooling families as a Learning Coach.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Learning & Support Specialist / Tax Examiner Technician
Internal Revenue Service
07.2020 - Current
- Guided individuals in navigating complex systems with clarity, patience, and reliable support
- Resolved issues by combining technical knowledge with compassionate customer service
- Provided technical casework support to managers, helping ensure consistency and quality
- Created 6 peer training tools to simplify updates in procedures and documentation
Team Lead (Temporary Detail)
Internal Revenue Service
08.2024 - 01.2025
- Served as primary mentor and support for a new team of 11 examiners post-training
- Delivered individualized coaching to help team members build skill and confidence
- Acted as designated manager during supervisor absences, managing workflow and resolving issues
- Collaborated with leadership to improve the onboarding processes and promote team success
Private Violin Instructor & Ensemble Director
Self-Employed
01.2007 - 01.2025
- Delivered customized goal-oriented music instruction for students of all ages, integrating digital tools
- Maintained communication with families to support progress and engagement
- Founded and directed an adult string ensemble, building confidence and community through music
- Supported late-start learners with patience, encouragement, and targeted strategies
- Fostered a supportive learning environment through individualized instruction and constructive feedback
Owner & Educator
Alter's Violin Shop, LLC
01.1990 - 01.2020
- Founded and managed a successful business offering education, repair, sales, and customer support
- Taught clients about instrument care and repair using accessible, hands-on instruction
- Developed lasting client relationships through reliable service and responsive communication
- Maintained secure systems for client records, payment, and scheduling
Education
Adobe Creative Suite – Level 1 Coursework -
Penn Valley Community College
Kansas City, MO01.2009
Musical String Instrument Repair & Construction - undefined
Red Wing Technical Institute
Red Wing, MN01.1987
Bachelor of Music Education - K-12 Instrumental
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS01.1985
Skills
- Operating Systems: Windows & macOS
- Productivity: Word, Excel, OneNote, Outlook
- Communication: MS Teams, FaceTime
- Tools: Snagit, secure case & data systems
- Quick to learn educational platforms and new software
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
- 30+ years in education, mentoring, and learner support
- Strong communicator with a calm, encouraging approach
- Trusted to coach peers and assist managers in troubleshooting technical workflows
- Experienced with secure digital tools and virtual collaboration platforms
- Quick to learn new software, including educational tools and systems
- Committed to helping families and students succeed in home-based learning
ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
- Known for fostering a warm, structured, and empowering learning environment
- Clinician and educator at local/state levels for music and instrument care
- Developed and led workshops for students, families, and community groups
Timeline
Team Lead (Temporary Detail)
Internal Revenue Service
08.2024 - 01.2025
Learning & Support Specialist / Tax Examiner Technician
Internal Revenue Service
07.2020 - Current
Private Violin Instructor & Ensemble Director
Self-Employed
01.2007 - 01.2025
Owner & Educator
Alter's Violin Shop, LLC
01.1990 - 01.2020
Musical String Instrument Repair & Construction - undefined
Red Wing Technical Institute
Bachelor of Music Education - K-12 Instrumental
Wichita State University
Adobe Creative Suite – Level 1 Coursework -
Penn Valley Community College
Similar Profiles
Debbie BalsitisDebbie Balsitis
Case Advocate at Internal Revenue Service-Taxpayer Advocate ServiceCase Advocate at Internal Revenue Service-Taxpayer Advocate Service
Jannai CheeksJannai Cheeks
Contact Representative at Internal Revenue Service (IRS)Contact Representative at Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Darlene BrungardtDarlene Brungardt
Tax Examining Technician (Correspondence) at Internal Revenue Service, IRSTax Examining Technician (Correspondence) at Internal Revenue Service, IRS
Talesha FranklinTalesha Franklin
Lead Sales Associate at Elevate SolarLead Sales Associate at Elevate Solar
Adrienne WeeksAdrienne Weeks
Director, Patient Progression at Children's MercyDirector, Patient Progression at Children's Mercy