Grace Karnezis
Summary
I am a passionate Early Childhood Educator with over 20 years of experience in creating inclusive learning environments. Expertise in curriculum implementation, classroom management, and instructional leadership. Demonstrated success in fostering social, emotional, and academic development in young learners. Strong ability to build collaborative relationships with staff, families, and the community to support student growth.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Kindergarten Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
06.2021 - Current
- Implemented high-quality, standards-aligned curriculum and assessments across all subjects.
- Differentiated Reading and Math instruction based on students' needs.
- Trained and implemented Wilson Fundations, Skyline, The Daily 5, and Eureka Math methodologies.
- Consistently surpassed school-wide academic goals in ELA and Math based on Star 360 results.
- Cultivated inclusive classroom environment using Responsive Classroom behavior strategies.
- Fostered strong family engagement via monthly meetings, newsletters and the Remind app.
- Teacher for the Kick off to Kindergarten program during the SY22-23 and SY23-24 academic years.
- Mentored and supervised new teachers during SY22-23, SY23-24, and SY24-25 academic years.
- Developed professional development initiatives for K-2 educators as part of the Internal Leadership Team during the SY22-25 academic years.
- Culture and Climate Team member from SY22-23 to Present.
Kindergarten Teacher
Old St. Mary's School
09.2009 - 06.2021
- Implemented differentiated instructional strategies to address diverse student learning needs.
- Analyzed assessments and performance data to inform instructional decisions.
- Instructed Literacy lessons focusing on multi-sensory phonics, decoding, comprehension, and fluency.
- Enhanced classroom management through Responsive Classroom techniques to establish clear expectations.
- Cultivated positive relationships with students and families to support a safe learning environment.
- Served as coordinator for Teacher Leader Program, promoting professional development opportunities.
- Coached basketball for 10 years, fostering teamwork and sportsmanship.
General Education Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
08.2001 - 06.2006
- Implemented diverse teaching methods tailored to individual learning styles, enhancing student comprehension.
- Conducted skills assessments to identify performance gaps and inform instructional strategies.
- Maintained current knowledge of instructional techniques and educational resources to support student success.
- Provided clear feedback and positive reinforcement to foster student achievement.
Education
M.Ed. in Curriculum And Instruction -
American College of Education
Chicago, ILEnglish-as-a-Second-Language Endorsement
Jacqueline B. Vaughn Graduate School
Chicago, IL06-2025
B.A. in Early Childhood Education -
DePaul University
Chicago, IL06-2001
Skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Relationship management
- Problem solving
- Mentorship and guidance
- Classroom management
- Curriculum design
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Family engagement strategies
- Technology proficiency
Timeline
Kindergarten Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
06.2021 - Current
Kindergarten Teacher
Old St. Mary's School
09.2009 - 06.2021
General Education Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
08.2001 - 06.2006
M.Ed. in Curriculum And Instruction -
American College of Education
English-as-a-Second-Language Endorsement
Jacqueline B. Vaughn Graduate School
B.A. in Early Childhood Education -
DePaul University
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