Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Interests
Timeline
Generic

Desha Whitney

PHOENIX

Summary

Dynamic educator with a proven track record at Madison School District, excelling in classroom management and lesson planning. Enhanced student literacy through targeted interventions and fostered strong relationships with parents and students. Skilled in technology integration, I adapt teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs, ensuring academic success for all.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Middle School Teacher

Madison School District 321
08.2000 - 05.2023
  • Provided one-on-one attention to students, while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
  • Kept classroom organized, clean and safe for students and visitors.
  • Completed in-service and additional training to maintain professional growth.
  • Utilized various technology platforms to enhance virtual learning experiences during remote instruction periods, ensuring continued academic progress despite challenging circumstances.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations and consistently enforcing consequences when necessary.
  • Designed engaging lesson plans that addressed diverse learning styles and promoted active participation.
  • Developed strong relationships with students and parents, fostering a positive learning environment.
  • Maintained classroom discipline and modeled correct behaviors.
  • Utilized data-driven instructional methods to identify areas of improvement for individual students, tailoring lessons accordingly to optimize academic growth.
  • Evaluated and improved student reading comprehension through personalized instruction.
  • Utilized multimedia strategies and technology to convey information in fresh and interesting ways.
  • Prepared and implemented lesson plans covering required course topics.
  • Taught students how to express ideas in detail.
  • Improved student literacy levels by implementing targeted reading intervention strategies.
  • Corrected grammatical issues and imparted new rules appropriate to instructional level.
  • Assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and modifying instruction as needed.
  • Maintained accurate records of student performance, attendance, and behavior, ensuring timely communication with parents and administration.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to create an interdisciplinary approach for cross-curricular learning experiences.

College Instructor

Mesa Community College
09.2013 - 05.2014
  • Maintained detailed records of student attendance, participation, and academic performance for accurate reporting and evaluation purposes.
  • Provided extra help during office hours or through additional tutoring sessions to ensure all students had access to necessary resources for success.
  • Worked closely with academic advisors to identify at-risk students early in the semester and develop targeted intervention strategies for increased retention rates.
  • Conducted assessments of student progress, using data to inform instructional decisions and adapt lesson plans accordingly.
  • Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, and group activities.
  • Developed strong relationships with students through clear communication and active listening, fostering an inclusive classroom environment.
  • Administered exams and assignments to monitor student understanding and progress, implementing systems to fix blocks in comprehension or learning.
  • Improved overall class performance by providing regular feedback and tailored support to individual students.

Education

Master of Arts - Education

University of Phoenix
Tempe, AZ
05-2009

Bachelor of Arts - Communications

Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
05-2000

Skills

  • Classroom management
  • Lesson planning
  • Learning assessments
  • Parent-teacher communication
  • Team collaboration
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Organizational growth
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Grammar teaching
  • Collaborative learning
  • Vocabulary building
  • Smartboard operation
  • Technology integration
  • Project-based learning
  • Literacy skills
  • Special needs support
  • Writing instruction

Certification

  • Taught Gifted Education
  • Created my own course, World Languages and Cultures
  • Experience in teaching Special Education


Interests

  • Continuing my spiritual growth
  • Sharing travel tips, recommendations, and insights with fellow enthusiasts
  • Avid Reader
  • Community Cleanup
  • Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
  • Cooking
  • Gym Workouts
  • Mindfulness Practices
  • Acting and Theater
  • Passionate about balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness

Timeline

College Instructor

Mesa Community College
09.2013 - 05.2014

Middle School Teacher

Madison School District 321
08.2000 - 05.2023

Master of Arts - Education

University of Phoenix

Bachelor of Arts - Communications

Arizona State University