- Exploring various forms of art, such as local theatre, museums (RAM, MAM, Art Institute of Chicago), and fashion through thrifting, to nurture creativity and personal growth
- Passionate about balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness
- Animal Welfare Advocacy
Heather Jirgensen
Caledonia,WI
Summary
Educator with strong background in social studies instruction, classroom management, and curriculum development. Demonstrated ability to engage students, foster critical thinking, and adapt to diverse learning needs. Collaborative team player focused on achieving educational goals and meeting school standards. Known for strong communication skills, adaptability, and results-oriented approach.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
6th & 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Racine Unified School District
08.2025 - Current
- Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding of historical concepts.
- Integrated technology into curriculum to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Gave assignments, graded work and regularly discussed performance with students.
- Established and communicated clear objectives for all educational activities.
- Consulted with teachers in other disciplines to identify and adopt successful instructional strategies.
- Attended department meetings to develop and update course curricula.
- Maintained awareness of relevant current events and quickly incorporated study into curriculum.
- Discussed important historical figures, dates and events which helped shape modern world.
- Integrated Smartboard and other instructional technologies into classroom.
5th Grade Teacher
Racine Unified School District
08.2017 - 06.2025
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards to enhance student learning outcomes.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities.
- Utilized assessment data to track student progress and adjust curriculum effectively.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment that encouraged collaboration and respect among students.
- Assessed student progress regularly using formative and summative assessments, modifying instruction as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
- Developed strong rapport with students, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lessons, connecting subject matter across various topics.
- Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating diverse teaching methods, including visual aids, group activities, and hands-on experiences.
- Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
- Taught core subjects of math, science, technology, and history.
- Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
- Prepared and administered grade-specific tests and examinations regulated by school district to monitor students' growth and to report progress to parents.
2nd Grade Teacher
Racine Unified School District
09.2014 - 06.2017
- Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding and foster a love of learning.
- Facilitated classroom activities that promoted collaboration and critical thinking among students.
- Implemented assessment tools to monitor student progress and adapt instruction as needed.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop cross-curricular projects, fostering critical thinking skills and interdisciplinary learning.
- Built positive relationships with parents to involve families in educational process.
Student Teacher, Second Grade
Giese Elementary School
04.2014 - 06.2014
- Perform all duties of a second grade teacher, including lesson planning for all subjects, teaching, grading, attending staff meetings, and professional development seminars
Lighted Schoolhouse Program (LSP) Clerk – North Park Elementary
Racine Unified School District
09.2013 - 05.2014
- Maintain student registration information, records, and attendance
- Enter test scores into Cayan database
- Maintain snack inventory
Student Teacher, Seventh Grade English
Jerstad Agerholm Middle School
01.2014 - 04.2014
- Perform all duties of a seventh grade English teacher, including lesson planning, teaching, grading, attending staff meetings, and professional development seminars
School Data Associate
Racine Unified School District
09.2012 - 01.2014
- Provide school data support to Racine Unified schools and staff
- Perform data operations in Skyward and Schoolnet programs
- Provide school data department with clerical support
Supervisor of Reception
Racine Art Museum (RAM)
01.2003 - 01.2010
- Manage and schedule part-time receptionists
- Facilitate positive visitor experiences
- Data entry, prepare mailings, proof exhibition catalogs and marketing materials
- Order all office supplies, toner and ink cartridges
Education
Elementary Teaching Certification -
Concordia University
Kenosha, WI01.2014
Associate of Graphic Design - undefined
Gateway Technical College
Racine, WI01.1998
Advanced Desktop Publishing Certificate - undefined
Gateway Technical College
Racine, WI01.1997
BA - Journalism – Advertising & Mass Communications
University of Wisconsin-Madison
01.1995
Skills
- problem-solving skills
- Strong aptitude
- Proficient in computer applications
- Clear verbal and written skills
Interests
Timeline
6th & 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Racine Unified School District
08.2025 - Current
5th Grade Teacher
Racine Unified School District
08.2017 - 06.2025
2nd Grade Teacher
Racine Unified School District
09.2014 - 06.2017
Student Teacher, Second Grade
Giese Elementary School
04.2014 - 06.2014
Student Teacher, Seventh Grade English
Jerstad Agerholm Middle School
01.2014 - 04.2014
Lighted Schoolhouse Program (LSP) Clerk – North Park Elementary
Racine Unified School District
09.2013 - 05.2014
School Data Associate
Racine Unified School District
09.2012 - 01.2014
Supervisor of Reception
Racine Art Museum (RAM)
01.2003 - 01.2010
Associate of Graphic Design - undefined
Gateway Technical College
Advanced Desktop Publishing Certificate - undefined
Gateway Technical College
BA - Journalism – Advertising & Mass Communications
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Elementary Teaching Certification -
Concordia University