Dara Morgan
Detroit,Michigan
Summary
Enthusiastic social studies teacher dedicated to inspiring students to understand and appreciate rights, privileges and civic duties. Cultivates understanding of geographical, historical, cultural and political factors that influence world regions. Motivates students to develop sound opinions based on research of facts regarding national and global politics and economics.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Secondary Social Studies Teacher
University Liggett School
08.2018 - Current
- Planned and taught lessons for grades 7, 8, 10, 11 & 12, reflecting student educational, cultural and language diversity
- Implemented a strong focus on developing non-fiction reading and writing skills
- Reviewed and chose textbooks and other teaching materials
- Graded and assessed student work and provided feedback and support
- Planned and chaperoned local and overnight field trips to enhance student learning
- Oversaw various student groups and clubs
- Co-created, organized and taught 7th grade world geography and culture, including Religious Diversity field trip components
- Currently teaching 11th & 12th grade social studies electives, 1 semester of African American history, and 1 semester of Race, Ethnicity & Social Inequalities
- Taught 10th grade civics survey class
- Member of the Community, Engagement, and Belonging faculty group
- Developed and taught 8th grade social studies curriculum
- Used Project Citizen curriculum to help student create a project to effect policy change in their community
- Advised groups of 6-10 7th & 8th grade students as a part of the school’s advisory program, by supporting students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Co-conducted middle school after-care program.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans that connected social studies content to other subject areas.
- Established and communicated clear learning objectives and expectations to students.
- Educated students regarding national and global social issues and influencing factors and maintained awareness of relevant current events, quickly incorporated study into curriculum.
- Facilitated meaningful connections between historical events and contemporary issues, encouraging students to understand the relevance of social studies education today.
- Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and enhance teaching effectiveness in the social studies domain.
- Developed critical thinking skills in students through engaging activities and assignments that challenged their perspectives on historical events.
- Implemented project-based learning assignments that connected course content to real-world issues, inspiring students to become active citizens within their communities.
- Enhanced student engagement with interactive classroom presentations, collaborative group projects, and hands-on learning experiences.
- Evaluated student understanding through formative and summative assessments, providing feedback and adjusting instruction as needed
- Utilized technology to enhance student education and grasp of materials.
- Used computers, audio-visual aids and other equipment to supplement presentations.
- Consulted with teachers in other disciplines to identify and adopt successful instructional strategies.
- Attended department meetings to develop and update course curricula.
- Supported students in development of skills and strategies to become independent and successful learners.
- Promoted culture of inclusion, respect and collaboration in classroom.
- Monitored student progress and provided feedback to both students and parents.
Secondary Reading Specialist
W.A.Y. Academy SW
09.2017 - 06.2018
- Reading Specialist
- Develop and administer various reading assessments
- Developed and implement independent reading learning plans using researched-based methods and strategies
- Work with students individually and in small groups to strengthen reading skills for students in grades 7-12
- Support content area teachers by providing them with materials and strategies to support reading.
- Provided personalized attention and support to struggling students, resulting in improved academic performance.
- Enhanced reading comprehension by implementing targeted literacy interventions and strategies.
- Developed goals and realistic plans for achieving each target.
- Increased student engagement through the use of interactive reading materials and technology integration.
- Assisted in the selection and adoption of appropriate curriculum materials aligned with state standards and district goals.
- Supported English Language Learners by adapting instructional materials and employing culturally responsive teaching practices.
- Collaborated with teachers to ensure consistent implementation of reading interventions across all subject areas.
- Fostered a love for literature among students by incorporating engaging texts from various genres into classroom instruction.
Reading Tutor
09.2014 - 05.2017
- Worked with individual students ages 7-13 to increase reading and writing proficiency, enjoyment, and motivation
- Conducted reading diagnostics using Oral Miscue Analysis, reading writing interviews, parent interviews, attitude surveys, writing samples, and spelling inventory
- Developed personalized lesson plans and strategies to address individual student’s reading and writing needs
- Communicated with parents about student progress through informal conversations and written reports.
Middle School English and Language Arts Teacher
University Prep Science & Math Middle School
08.2011 - 07.2013
- 7th Grade English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher
- Taught 7th grade ELA curriculum according to school curriculum
- Developed and implemented ELA lesson plans
- Developed and implemented classroom and quad management plan
- Worked collaboratively with 7th grade quad team teachers
- Assisted in designing 2012/13 ELA school curriculum
- Implemental in raising reading and writing scores on standardized testing.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
- Ensured alignment between curriculum standards, assessments, and instructional materials to maximize student success in mastering required content.
- Contributed positively to school culture by participating in faculty meetings, committees, and events aimed at improving overall student experience.
- Communicated regularly with parents about student progress, highlighting achievements and addressing concerns as needed.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, setting clear expectations and addressing issues promptly and fairly.
- Promoted a love of reading by maintaining an extensive classroom library featuring diverse authors, genres, and topics.
- Increased student comprehension by implementing diverse instructional strategies tailored to individual learning needs.
- Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in teaching English and Language Arts.
- Assessed student performance regularly, providing timely feedback for continuous improvement.
- Completed in-service and additional training to maintain professional growth.
- Evaluated academic skills of each student through verbal assessments, graded assignments, and standardized tests.
- Promoted effective verbal and written communication through listening, speaking, reading, and writing practice.
Student Teacher, 8th Grade
Thompson K-8
01.2011 - 04.2012
- 8th Grade Student Teacher
- Developed and taught an ELA unit plan on descriptive language to five classes
- Planned and taught reading strategy lessons
- Developed and implemented classroom policy and procedures
- Implemented Classroom management plan
- Graded and evaluated student work.
- Worked with classroom teacher to learn about current standards and best practices.
- Monitored classrooms for safety and good behavior, offering students positive reinforcement to maintain discipline.
- Developed lesson plans that incorporated mandated topics and included immersive activities for student engagement.
Pre-Student Teacher
Saline Middle School
09.2010 - 12.2010
- 8th Grade Pre-Student Teacher
- Developed and taught 3-day mini-lessons on summarizing in reading/writing workshop format
- Taught lessons modeled and planned by Cooperating Teacher
- Worked on assessment and evaluation through running records developed by Cooperating Teacher
- Assisted students in History projects in 8th grade U.S. history class
- Developed a Unit Plan designed for 8th grade ELA class
Pre-Student Teacher
Southfield High School
01.2010 - 04.2010
- 10th and 11th Grade Pre-Student Teacher
- Created and taught lesson on making predictions while reading
- Studied the culture and environment of the school and the community to get a better idea of the outside barriers and advantages to instruction
- Worked with groups of students on literature activities
- Attended professional development instruction on differential learning.
Public Health Educator
City of Detroit, Dept. of Health & Wellness Promot
05.2005 - 08.2009
- Senior Public Health Educator
- In addition to Intermediate duties: Administrator of training schedule and maintained web-based training calendar
- Taught Emergency Preparedness trainings to DHWP employees
- Developed and presented public health presentations to community stakeholders
- Liaison & spokesperson for OEPHP
- Develop and revise CERC (Crisis Emergency & Risk Communications) plan
- Created and chaired health educator work-group
- Editor of H.O.P.E
- Monthly newsletter
- Generations with Promise Health Education liaison to 11 Detroit Public Schools (DPS)
- Created and taught a diabetes awareness program to seventh graders in DPS.
- Designed informative brochures detailing preventative care methods and available resources, increasing public health literacy in vulnerable populations.
- Organized community events promoting healthy lifestyles, resulting in increased engagement from local residents in improving their wellbeing.
- Improved community health by creating and implementing targeted educational programs addressing prevalent public health issues.
- Conducted comprehensive needs assessments to identify gaps in community knowledge, informing future program development efforts.
- Facilitated communication between stakeholders including government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare providers strengthening collaborative relationships within the sector.
- Developed culturally sensitive education materials, fostering inclusivity and understanding in diverse communities.
- Provided guidance to fellow educators on best practices in public health education, elevating overall quality of instruction.
- Utilized social media platforms as a tool for disseminating critical information about preventive measures during disease outbreaks or environmental crises.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through data analysis, refining strategies to better meet community needs.
- Enhanced participant knowledge by developing engaging training materials for public health workshops and seminars.
- Collaborated with local organizations to promote public health initiatives, increasing community involvement and support.
- Increased awareness of available resources by establishing partnerships with healthcare providers and other relevant organizations.
- Developed and implemented health education strategies to reach target audiences.
- Collaborated with other health professionals to provide comprehensive health education services.
Intermediate Public Health Educator
City of Detroit, Detroit Immunization Program
07.2004 - 05.2005
- Developed and implemented immunization health presentations
- Provided training and presentations on immunizations
- Ordered immunization material for Detroit Immunization Program (DIP)
- Provided immunization material to the public
- Coordinated with Health Dept
- Publicist to publicize program activities
- Drafted press releases
- Represented DIP and maintain relationships with City departments and outside agencies
- Operated a variety of audio-visual equipment (i.e
- Overhead & LCD projector)
- Assisted program administrator
- Coordinated, plan and execute special programs and events in conjunction with Program Administrator.
Substitute Teacher
Detroit Public Schools
01.1997 - 06.2004
- Emergency Substitute Teacher in a Regular Position (ESRP)
- Building Substitute Teacher
- Developed and implemented middle school Spanish program
- Taught 3rd-5th grade social studies
- Taught 6th grade language arts, 7th grade math and geography
- Taught 3rd grade self-contained
- Planned and Implemented daily lessons
- Planned and Organized field trips, special projects and events
- Managed and Planned for classes consisting of 10-45 students in grades K-8
- Resolved conflicts, interacted with parents, students and the community on a daily basis.
Corporate Trainer
National TechTeam / DaimlerChrysler (Canada)
12.2000 - 06.2001
- Corporate Computer Training Specialist ~ Canadian CATS team
- Trained upper management of DaimlerChrysler on new computer based time system
- Trained and facilitated training classes consisting of 2-20 people
- Troubleshot & provided system support
- Documented new material due to system updates.
Education
Master of Education -
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI01.2017
Bachelor of Arts in Education with Secondary certification -
The University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI01.2011
Bachelor of Arts - English Literature
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI08.1996
Study Abroad, Spanish Language Study -
The University of Arizona
Guadalajara, MXCertification of Completion ~ Television Production -
Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts
Southfield, MI01.2002
Skills
- Collaborative learning
- Project-based learning
- Feedback implementation
- Peer Evaluation
- Verbal and written communication
- Differentiated Instruction
- Issue Resolution
- Technology Integration
- Google Classroom
- SMART Boards
Accomplishments
2016 Recipient of the Wayne State University Master’s Retention Scholarship
Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society
2010 Recipient of the Kenneth Burnely Scholarship (University of Michigan)
Kappa Delta Pi Education Honors Society
Golden Key International Honour Society
Softwareequipment
- MS Office Suite
- Google Classroom
- Google Docs/Sheets/Forms
- SMART boards
- Adobe Photoshop
- Power School
- ELMO Document Camera
Certification
- Michigan Provisional Secondary Certificate, 1st Renewal, 2011, Professional 2017
- BA (6-12), CC (6-12), BR (K-12)
- First Aid & CPR (Adult & Child), 2011
Honorsaffiliations
- 2016 Recipient of the Wayne State University Master’s Retention Scholarship
- Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society
- 2010 Recipient of the Kenneth Burnely Scholarship (University of Michigan)
- Kappa Delta Pi Education Honors Society
- Golden Key International Honour Society
- International Literacy Association
- The Assembly on Literature for Adolescents (ALAN)
- National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
- Jim Dandy Ski Club (Membership Chair 2006-2009)
- Volunteer – Detroit Historical Museum
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
- Jack and Jill of America, Detroit Chapter
Affiliations
- International Literacy Association The Assembly on Literature for Adolescents (ALAN)
- National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
- National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)
- Jim Dandy Ski Club (Membership Chair 2006-2009)
- Volunteer – Detroit Historical Museum
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
- Jack and Jill of America, Detroit Chapter
Timeline
Secondary Social Studies Teacher
University Liggett School
08.2018 - Current
Secondary Reading Specialist
W.A.Y. Academy SW
09.2017 - 06.2018
Reading Tutor
09.2014 - 05.2017
Middle School English and Language Arts Teacher
University Prep Science & Math Middle School
08.2011 - 07.2013
Student Teacher, 8th Grade
Thompson K-8
01.2011 - 04.2012
Pre-Student Teacher
Saline Middle School
09.2010 - 12.2010
Pre-Student Teacher
Southfield High School
01.2010 - 04.2010
Public Health Educator
City of Detroit, Dept. of Health & Wellness Promot
05.2005 - 08.2009
Intermediate Public Health Educator
City of Detroit, Detroit Immunization Program
07.2004 - 05.2005
Corporate Trainer
National TechTeam / DaimlerChrysler (Canada)
12.2000 - 06.2001
Substitute Teacher
Detroit Public Schools
01.1997 - 06.2004
Master of Education -
Wayne State University
Bachelor of Arts in Education with Secondary certification -
The University of Michigan
Bachelor of Arts - English Literature
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Study Abroad, Spanish Language Study -
The University of Arizona
Certification of Completion ~ Television Production -
Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts
- Michigan Provisional Secondary Certificate, 1st Renewal, 2011, Professional 2017
- BA (6-12), CC (6-12), BR (K-12)
- First Aid & CPR (Adult & Child), 2011
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