Dawn Zappa
Port Clinton
Summary
Dedicated and passionate educator with 31 years of experience inspiring student success across elementary and middle grade levels. National Board Certified Teacher (since 2002) and 2023 RESA Certified with proven leadership in mentoring student teachers, coaching, and advancing instructional excellence. Known for innovative approaches in primary multiage and a strong commitment to educational equity.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
3rd Grade Teacher
Perkins Local Schools
01.2017 - Current
- Fostered inclusive, student-centered classrooms across a range of grade levels
- Led differentiated instruction and innovative curriculum in multiple settings
- Collaborated on school improvement and literacy initiatives
- Supported at-risk learners through targeted Title I intervention
Primary Multigrade Teacher (Grades 2-3)
Perkins Local Schools
01.2004 - 01.2017
5th Grade Teacher
Perkins Local Schools
01.2001 - 01.2004
Cheerleading Coach
Perkins Local Schools
01.2000 - 01.2003
- Built strong team culture and school spirit while mentoring student-athletes
Title I Intervention Specialist
Perkins Local Schools
01.2000 - 01.2001
6th Grade Teacher
Sandusky City Schools
01.1991 - 01.2000
4th Grade Teacher
Middletown Madison Local Schools
01.1994 - 01.1997
Cheerleading Coach
Miami University Hamilton
01.1994 - 01.1996
- Built strong team culture and school spirit while mentoring student-athletes
Education
Bachelor of Science - Education
Miami University
Oxford, Ohio01.1993
Master's Degree - Curriculum and Instruction
Ashland University
Ashland, Ohio01.2002
Skills
- Literacy and Math Instruction
- Multiage & Differentiated Teaching
- Student Mentorship & Teacher Development
- Family & Community Engagement
- Curriculum Design
- Data-Driven Instruction
- Coaching & Team Building
Certification
- National Board Certified Teacher, 2002 - Present
- RESA Certified Educator, Ohio, 2023
- RESA Program Coordinator Orientation Completed, 2024
Coaching And Leadership
- Miami University Hamilton, Cheerleading Coach, 01/01/94 - 01/01/96
- Perkins Local Schools, Cheerleading Coach, 01/01/00 - 01/01/03
Mentorship And Professional Involvement
- Mentored two student teachers and multiple EHOVE students during practicum placements
- RESA Mentor and active contributor to educator development and evaluation
- Professional Development Committee
- Completed RESA Program Coordinator Orientation in 2024 to support district-level mentoring
Leadership And Curriculum Development
- Building Leadership Team (BLT), 2016
- District Leadership Team (DLT), 2017 - 2024
- Effective Schools Teacher Consultant
- National Science Grant Leadership Team Member
Teaching Philosophy
I believe in fostering a student-centered learning environment where curiosity and inquiry drive instruction. By integrating project-based learning and real-world connections into the curriculum, students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom. My role as an educator is to guide students in discovering their strengths and passions while providing the tools and support necessary for them to thrive academically and personally. Through collaboration, reflection, and continuous professional growth, I strive to create inclusive, engaging, and equitable learning experiences that prepare students to be informed, compassionate, and capable members of a global society.
Professional Development
- National Board Certified Teacher, Since 2002
- RESA Certified, 2023
- RESA Program Coordinator Orientation Completed, 2024
- Project-Based Learning Training
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Training
- National Science Grant Teacher Consultant
- Curriculum and Instruction Leadership Workshops
Timeline
3rd Grade Teacher
Perkins Local Schools
01.2017 - Current
Primary Multigrade Teacher (Grades 2-3)
Perkins Local Schools
01.2004 - 01.2017
5th Grade Teacher
Perkins Local Schools
01.2001 - 01.2004
Cheerleading Coach
Perkins Local Schools
01.2000 - 01.2003
Title I Intervention Specialist
Perkins Local Schools
01.2000 - 01.2001
4th Grade Teacher
Middletown Madison Local Schools
01.1994 - 01.1997
Cheerleading Coach
Miami University Hamilton
01.1994 - 01.1996
6th Grade Teacher
Sandusky City Schools
01.1991 - 01.2000
Master's Degree - Curriculum and Instruction
Ashland University
Bachelor of Science - Education
Miami University
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