Gail Tratz
Owatonna,MN
Summary
Experienced educator with demonstrated leadership in curriculum design and mentorship. Proven ability to collaborate with teams and mentor new teachers, fostering a supportive environment that promotes student success and professional growth.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
English / Language Arts Teacher
Owatonna Senior High
Owatonna, MN
08.2015 - Current
- Instructed students in a variety of required classes, including English 9/Enriched English 9/Co-taught English 9, English 10, English 11, and English 12/Co-taught English 12 Career Pathways, and Owatonna Online English 9-12.
- Instructed students in various electives, including Journalism, Creative Writing, Popular Literature, and Behind the Crime Scene (research and podcast).
- Designed and implemented lesson plans to enhance student understanding of writing, speaking, and literature, incorporating technology to enhance learning.
- Differentiated instruction for needs of English Language Learners, students with disabilities, and gifted/talented students.
- Mentored new teachers, sharing best practices for classroom management and instructional techniques.
- Served in leadership positions, including AVID site team and NHS adviser.
President
Owatonna Education Association
Owatonna, MN
05.2022 - 05.2026
- Collaborated with fellow leaders to benefit educators and the community.
- Helped manage organizational budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources for programs and services.
- Developed communication strategies to engage members and keep them informed about association activities.
- Oversaw election processes for association leadership positions, ensuring transparency and fairness.
- Updated bylaws, policy manuals, and job descriptions for the Association.
English/Language Arts Teacher
Owatonna Junior High School
Owatonna, MN
08.1998 - 07.2015
- Instructed 7th and 8th grade students in English 7, English 8, and Reading Intervention (Read 180) courses.
- Developed engaging and research-based lesson plans for students.
- Served in leadership roles such as Site Team Leader, Department Chair, Newspaper Adviser, and Speech Team Adviser.
- Participated in professional development, including Team Up, a two-year partnership with the University of Minnesota, as well as many opportunities related to reading, differentiation, and technology integrtation.
English and Literature Teacher
Windermere High School
Eleuthera, Bahamas
08.1996 - 06.1998
- Instructed students in grades 9-12 in English and Literature classes, preparing students for high school certification examinations (BGSCEs) for two school years.
- Taught classes in Word Processing and Physical Education.
- Served as Yearbook Adviser and Assistant Softball Coach.
Education
Master of Science - Educational Leadership
Minnesota State University- Marshall
Marshall, MN05-2002
Bachelor of Arts - English Education
Northwestern College
St. Paul, MN03-1996
Skills
- Minnesota teaching license
- Grammar expertise
- Curriculum design
- Lesson plan implementation
- Verbal and written communication
- Group leadership
- Differentiated instruction
- Mentorship
- Collaboration
- Proficiency in various educational technology platforms
Timeline
President
Owatonna Education Association
05.2022 - 05.2026
English / Language Arts Teacher
Owatonna Senior High
08.2015 - Current
English/Language Arts Teacher
Owatonna Junior High School
08.1998 - 07.2015
English and Literature Teacher
Windermere High School
08.1996 - 06.1998
Master of Science - Educational Leadership
Minnesota State University- Marshall
Bachelor of Arts - English Education
Northwestern College