David G. Tibbitts III
Warwick
Summary
Secondary social studies educator and zoo education professional with classroom and public-facing experience across K-12 and informal-learning settings. Skilled in standards-aligned curriculum design, AP course delivery, volunteer training and program coordination, and large-event operations. Taught approximately 350 students over three years and managed a docent corps of about 66 active volunteers. Previously certified in Secondary Education Social Studies (7-12), Rhode Island Department of Education; not currently certified. Dedicated and adaptable professional with a proactive attitude and the ability to learn quickly. Strong work ethic and effective communication skills. Eager to contribute to a dynamic team and support organizational goals.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Docent Coordinator
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Providence
02.2024 - Current
- Lead administrative, logistical, and training operations for a docent program of ~66 active volunteers.
- Designed and launched a blended digital training program that shortened in-person onboarding and increased volunteer readiness.
- Created interpretive activities and habitat-education strategies adopted across the grounds to improve visitor learning.
- Produce weekly to bi-weekly communications to maintain volunteer engagement, and to update volunteers on zoo changes.
- Managed logistics for volunteer schedules, ensuring adequate staffing for daily operations and special events.
- Entered guest data into online databases to keep detailed information on guest interactions.
- Coordinate with cross-departmental teams to align docent support with exhibits and special events.
Long-Term Substitute History Teacher
Classical High School
Providence
08.2021 - 03.2024
- Taught World History I & II, US History, Civics, AP European History, and AP US History for grades 9-11.
- Planned and delivered standards-aligned units and assessments for diverse learners; collaborated on department unit planning.
- Implemented classroom routines and formative-assessment systems that supported continuity for transient instructional assignments.
- Instructed roughly 350 students across three academic years.
Educational Instructor
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Providence
01.2018 - 01.2024
- Delivered Zoomobile and onsite programs to school and community audiences of all ages.
- Prioritized safety and engagement while translating curriculum goals into interactive, standards-linked lessons.
- Supported school and family program managers with program logistics and outreach.
Visitor Services Lead Supervisor
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Providence
01.2018 - 01.2024
- Supervised frontline operations: staffing, ticketing, membership sales, guest services, and support for seasonal events.
- Served as point-person for queue operations during high-attendance events serving thousands of visitors; trained staff in crowd management.
- Advanced from frontline operator to lead supervisor through demonstrated leadership and operational improvements.
High School Social Studies Teacher
Scituate High School
Scituate
08.2022 - 08.2023
- Designed and taught project-based US History courses and case-study experiences for grades 10-12.
- Collaborated with special-education staff to adapt lessons and materials for equitable access.
- Managed classroom technology, assessments, and daily operations.
Lead Sales Associate
FYE/Trans-World Entertainment
Warwick
06.2010 - 01.2020
- Supervised daily operations of the store, including opening and closing routines, inventory management, and stocking shelves.
- Supervised the work of cashiers and trained new team members.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner while maintaining excellent relations with customers.
- Processed returns and exchanges according to established guidelines while ensuring customer satisfaction.
- Performed daily audits of merchandise displays, pricing accuracy and store security measures.
Infantryman Specialist 11C Mortarman
U.S. Army
Fort Stewart
06.2013 - 06.2016
- Operated and maintained specialized equipment; supervised and trained personnel in safety and operational procedures.
- Accountable for equipment valued at over $1,000,000; recognized for discipline, reliability, and teamwork.
- Performed regular maintenance and inspection of weapons systems to ensure operational readiness and compliance with safety standards.
- Assisted with the maintenance of weapons, equipment, and vehicles.
Education
Master of Arts - History
Rhode Island College
Providence, RI03-2026
Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education
Rhode Island College
Providence, RI04-2021
Skills
- Curriculum design and development
- Team collaboration
- Visitor engagement
- Volunteer coordination and training
- Research and analysis
- Adaptive learning strategies
- Advanced placement instruction
- Differentiated teaching methods
- IEP collaboration and support
- Program development and management
- Classroom management techniques
- Educational outreach and public interpretation
- Event operations management
- Digital training development
- Google Workspace proficiency
- Microsoft Office expertise
Awards
- Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts, 2012
- Army Volunteerism Award, 2016
Leadership And Volunteer Activity
- Host, Operation History, August 2020 - Present
- Volunteer, Boy Scouts Troop, Warwick, RI, September 23rd 2013, Present
Certification
Leadership Certification - Bryant University
Timeline
Docent Coordinator
Roger Williams Park Zoo
02.2024 - Current
High School Social Studies Teacher
Scituate High School
08.2022 - 08.2023
Long-Term Substitute History Teacher
Classical High School
08.2021 - 03.2024
Educational Instructor
Roger Williams Park Zoo
01.2018 - 01.2024
Visitor Services Lead Supervisor
Roger Williams Park Zoo
01.2018 - 01.2024
Infantryman Specialist 11C Mortarman
U.S. Army
06.2013 - 06.2016
Lead Sales Associate
FYE/Trans-World Entertainment
06.2010 - 01.2020
Master of Arts - History
Rhode Island College
Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education
Rhode Island College