Christa Craighead
Christiansburg,VA
Summary
Knowledgeable teacher and youth director with solid background in developing engaging lesson plans and fostering a positive learning environment. Has successfully guided students to achieve academic milestones through innovative teaching methods. Demonstrated proficiency in classroom management and curriculum development. Fostered positive relationships, lending to enriched learning environments.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Youth Director
Blacksburg United Methodist Church
Blacksburg, VA
05.2022 - Current
- Collaborated in curriculum development for grades 6-12 using United Methodist Church standards.
- Developed youth programs that promote spiritual growth and community engagement.
- Organized community service events for the youth ministry to gain service experience.
- Implemented mentorship opportunities connecting youth with church leaders and role models.
- Evaluated youth program effectiveness (particularly in my first year) through youth and parent feedback and adjusted youth activities accordingly.
- Trained and supported volunteer church staff in delivering engaging programming for youth groups.
- Coordinated and attended annual church events and weekly services to foster and build intergenerational fellowship and outreach.
- Developed comprehensive curriculum for various age groups, ensuring developmental appropriateness and inclusivity.
- Organized successful fundraising events that increased financial support for youth ministry significantly.
- Increased youth engagement by developing and implementing innovative programs tailored to their interests (increased youth engagement from 6 participants on average to 50 participants on average.)
- Cultivated positive relationships between youths and families through frequent communication about achievements or concerns.
- Promoted a safe and inclusive environment for all participants by establishing clear guidelines and behavioral expectations.
- Streamlined administrative processes by creating efficient systems for tracking attendance, scheduling events, and managing resources.
Teacher, Grade 7
Benjamin Franklin Middle School
Rocky Mount, VA
08.2019 - 05.2022
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards (see portfolio examples).
- Facilitated classroom discussions to enhance student participation and understanding (using daily conversation to begin and end class).
- Implemented assessment tools to evaluate student progress effectively (such as PearDeck to evaluate as we go).
- Collaborated with colleagues to refine instructional strategies and resources while at BFMS. 7th grade social studies teachers met each semester to add to an online resource together.
- Provided individualized support to students requiring additional assistance. Hosted after school tutoring bi-weekly for students needing additional help.
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment. (sent a monthly newsletter to parents, for example).
- 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, hands-on activities, and by incorporating interactive learning technologies into lessons.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs.
- Integrated cultural awareness into lessons by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum.
- Fostered positive learning environment that encouraged student curiosity and critical thinking.
- Designed and implemented differentiated instruction strategy to meet diverse learning needs, enhancing educational outcomes.
Assistant Program Coordinator
Camp Bethel Summer Camp And Event Center
Fincastle, VA
05.2015 - 08.2022
- Coordinated logistics for summer camp activities, ensuring smooth execution and youth engagement.
- Developed and implemented program schedules and staff assignments.
- Facilitated communication between campers, parents, and staff to address concerns and enhance camper experiences.
- Assisted in training new staff, fostering a collaborative team environment and promoting best practices among the staff.
- Planned the spiritual life curriculum for the summer and taught it in a variety of ways for the elementary and middle/high campers all summer.
- Prepared paperwork and assisted with clerical duties such as answering phones, data entry input, and responding to emails.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - History & Political Science
Bridgewater College
Bridgewater05-2019
Skills
- Student Engagement
- Curriculum Development
- Classroom Management
- Diverse Learning Strategies
- Educational Technology
- Project-Based Learning
- Communication Skills
Certification
- Certified Secondary Education Teacher - Virginia Board of Education
Timeline
Youth Director
Blacksburg United Methodist Church
05.2022 - Current
Teacher, Grade 7
Benjamin Franklin Middle School
08.2019 - 05.2022
Assistant Program Coordinator
Camp Bethel Summer Camp And Event Center
05.2015 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Arts - History & Political Science
Bridgewater College