Darla Brown
Austin
Summary
Innovative professional with years of diverse experience. Skilled in implementing innovative programs and approaches. Committed to helping students prepare for anything! Proven success in leading projects from start to finish and contributing to organizational growth and success.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Dual Language Sr Coordinator
Leander ISD
Leander, TX
06.2009 - Current
- Spearheaded the coordination and implementation of the dual language program in Leander ISD, initiating in 2009 with grades EC-2, extending to EC-5 in 2010, and expanding to EC-8 by 2020.
- Investigated and synthesized best practices to support informed strategic decision-making efforts.
- Cultivated robust relationships with stakeholders through strategic communication, enhancing trust and collaboration.
- Collaborated closely with executive leadership to develop strategic plans that aligned with the organization''s goals and objectives.
- Managed cross-functional teams for successful project execution, ensuring timely completion of tasks within budget constraints.
- Resolved issues through active listening and open-ended questioning, escalating major problems to manager.
- Organized spaces, materials and catering support for internal and client-focused meetings.
- Engaged with colleagues to create dynamic learning experiences that support the diverse needs of multilingual learners.
- Managed dual language curriculum specialists to support effective bilingual education initiatives.
- Supported dual language instructional coaches by sharing expertise and fostering collaborative learning environments.
- Developed and delivered continuous professional learning programs for a team of approximately 120 dual language staff.
- Analyzed student learning data to enhance educational experiences.
- Researched and implemented current educational trends and methodologies to optimize student learning outcomes.
- Collaborated with district staff to facilitate comprehensive professional learning, enhancing the consistent application of DLE instructional model in four elementary campuses.
- Motivated and inspired members of Dual Language community to leverage knowledge and expertise for advocacy of high-quality learning experiences.
- Continuously advocate for learning experiences centered on the student and research on the learning brain.
- Work closely with colleagues in Special Programs to ensure quality instruction for all learners.
- Guided and mentored dual language instructional coaches and curriculum specialists in collaboration with teachers and colleagues.
- Expanded professional influence to promote key aspects of the DLE instructional model, emphasizing interactive and authentic learning experiences.
Elementary Science Specialist
Leander ISD
Leander, TX
07.2007 - 05.2009
- Studied Understanding by Design and collaborated on developing district wide, hands on elementary science curriculum using this approach.
- Developed and implemented innovative science curriculum enhancements.
- Facilitated professional learning workshops for educators on science best practices.
- Analyzed student performance data to inform instructional strategies and improve outcomes.
Director
Ixbalanque Spanish School
Copan Ruinas, Honduras, Central America
06.1991 - 08.1998
- Established the first Spanish as a Second Language School in Honduras, designed to teach Spanish as a Second Language through immersion to adults and secondary students from across the world. Collaborated with staff to create curriculum and assessment in order to facilitate authentic learning experiences for students. Fostered multicultural literacy, empathy and understanding among a very diverse group of people.
- Students learned with a personal tutor, participated in tours and community events, arranged lodging with local families.
- Our school provided the Spanish language training for the Japanese Overseas Corps of Volunteers
- Managed budget allocations to optimize resource utilization and reduce operational costs.
- Oversaw talent development programs, mentoring staff to elevate team performance and engagement.
Education
Master of Education - Elementary Education, Minor in Spanish
Southwest Texas State University
San Marcos, TX01.2002
Bachelor of Science - Health Education
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX01.1988
Skills
- Strategic planning
- Relationship building
- Process improvement
- Problem-solving
- Team collaboration
- Verbal and written communication
- Best practices implementation
- Staff development and training
- Innovative practices
Certification
Elementary Self Contained 1-6, Bilingual/ESL 1-6
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Dual Language Sr Coordinator
Leander ISD
06.2009 - Current
Elementary Science Specialist
Leander ISD
07.2007 - 05.2009
Director
Ixbalanque Spanish School
06.1991 - 08.1998
Bachelor of Science - Health Education
Texas A&M University
Master of Education - Elementary Education, Minor in Spanish
Southwest Texas State University
Inspiring Catalyst
Facilitate professional learning for district staff in order to implement the Dual Language Enrichment instructional model with fidelity across 4 elementary campuses. Continuously work to encourage, urge and inspire members of our Dual Language community to use their knowledge and expertise to extend their circle of influence to advocate for high quality learning experiences for all students.
Life-long Learner
Study student learning and data in order to continuously improve learning experiences. Stay current in the field of education in order to provide the most effective learning experiences possible for our students. Established a system of Instructional Rounds involving all DLE staff in order to study learning and improve instruction.