Heather McAllister
Lake Forest,CA
Summary
Dynamic educator with over 18 years experience. California Teaching Certificate and GATE certification. Expert in technology integration and classroom management. I foster collaborative learning environments and enhance student engagement through innovative teaching methods. I take this experience and knowledge to the general public, as a public speaker and entertainer, as well as on-stage performer.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Entertainment Host/Character Performer
Disneyland Resort
Anaheim, CA
09.2025 - Current
- Engaged guests through dynamic presentations and storytelling techniques to enhance overall experience.
- Adapted hosting style to accommodate diverse cultural backgrounds of event attendees, fostering an inclusive environment.
- Utilized improvisational skills when needed to keep the momentum going during unforeseen delays or interruptions in planned programming.
- Handled unexpected situations or changes gracefully, maintaining composure and professionalism under pressure.
- Developed strong rapport with guests, creating a welcoming atmosphere and encouraging repeat attendance at future events.
- Utilized great communication and interpersonal skills when interacting with parties to promote smooth and efficient operations.
- Greeted guests and welcomed patrons in support of company service policy.
- Engaged guests through immersive character interactions, enhancing overall park experience.
- Collaborated with team members to create dynamic performances, ensuring seamless character presentations.
- Developed strong rapport with diverse audiences, fostering memorable experiences for families and children.
- Adapted quickly to various performance scenarios, maintaining high energy and engagement levels throughout shifts.
- Implemented feedback from supervisors to refine performance quality, consistently elevating guest satisfaction ratings.
- Developed strong improvisational skills, enabling seamless adaptation to unexpected situations during live performances.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by interacting with guests in character both on stage and off stage, enhancing their overall experience.
- Collaborated effectively with fellow performers to create memorable and engaging scenes for guests.
- Delivered information to guests on available services, special attractions and general facility layout and accommodations.
- Supported the creative vision of directors by understanding their goals and incorporating them into character portrayals.
- Received positive feedback from supervisors for outstanding professionalism and commitment to performance quality.
- Promoted a positive work atmosphere by fostering camaraderie among fellow performers both on stage and behind the scenes.
- Utilized physical and vocal techniques to portray characters on stage.
- Used body language, facial expressions and vocal techniques to convey messages.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance program offerings and streamline operations.
VAPA Theater Teacher
Orange Unified School District
Orange, CA
10.2024 - 06.2025
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding of theater arts.
- Directed school productions, fostering collaboration among students and staff.
- Mentored students in performance techniques, building confidence and stage presence.
- Integrated technology into curriculum to enrich learning experiences and streamline production processes.
- Evaluated student performances, providing constructive feedback to improve skills and artistic expression.
- Enhanced student performance by utilizing creative teaching methods and incorporating theater techniques in lesson plans.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through effective classroom management strategies aligned with school policies.
- Continuously updated personal knowledge of current theater trends and best practices through professional development seminars and workshops, ensuring relevant instruction for students.
- Improved classroom engagement by utilizing interactive exercises and group activities to encourage collaboration among students.
- Incorporated public speaking exercises into lessons to boost student confidence and improve presentation skills essential for success in theater arts.
- Organized successful school productions involving students from various grade levels and skills, fostering teamwork and community involvement.
- Expanded student appreciation for different theatrical styles by exposing them to a wide range of plays and performances from diverse cultures.
- Mentored aspiring young actors, providing guidance on audition preparation and career opportunities within the theater industry.
- Planned lessons to reflect group and individual student needs utilizing creative instruction.
- Encouraged students to perform well and learn from failure.
- Produced 15+ theatrical performances each year streamlining technical elements.
- Fostered love for art and learning to inspire students to pursue passions and interests.
Classroom Teacher
Santa Ana Unified School District
Santa Ana, Ca
08.2021 - 10.2024
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies, ensuring all students were able to access the curriculum and make progress in their learning.
- Implemented reading and writing workshops to increase student literacy and support school reading programs.
- Taught 4th and 5th grades- utilizing Chromebooks and ipads daily to increase student engagement and provide opportunities for differentiated assessments.
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
- Fostered team collaboration between students through group projects.
- Completed training courses to keep up-to-date with new teaching methods and developments in the field.
- Worked alongside grade-level team members to develop an educational plan per Common Core best practices and SAUSD standards.
- Coach of PBIS leadership team
- Fully trained for ELPAC testing
- Certified in GATE instruction through SVUSD and OCDE
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in education and refining instructional techniques accordingly.
- Established clear expectations for behavior and classroom management, creating a respectful and productive learning atmosphere.
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards to enhance student learning experiences.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to meet diverse learning needs and foster academic growth.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design and execute school-wide initiatives promoting student engagement and achievement.
Teacher
Saddleback Valley Unified School District
Mission Viejo, CA
08.2015 - 06.2020
- Instructed up to 30 students individually and in groups.
- Set up lesson materials, bulletin board displays and demonstrations.
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
- Fostered team collaboration between students through group projects.
- Completed training courses to keep up-to-date with new teaching methods and developments in the field.
- Enforced the school’s student discipline code to deal with problem situations.
- Selected age-appropriate stories and read them aloud during daily story time.
- Worked closely with current teachers to ensure that their classrooms ran efficiently and smoothly.
- Prepared report cards and participated in parent conferences during long term positions.
- Collaborated with faculty to plan outside events, including talent shows, parent luncheons, and field days.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
4 th grade teacher
Saddleback Valley Christian Schools
San Juan Capistrano, CA
09.2006 - 06.2015
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
- Met regularly with parents and guardians to discuss children's progress.
- Observed and evaluated students' performance, behavior, social development and physical health.
- Encouraged interactive learning by incorporating educational software and the Internet.
- Planned and implemented creative lessons in accordance with district, county, state and federal guidelines.
- Created an enjoyable and interesting learning environment for 24 students each year.
- Maintained accurate and complete records for 24 students, utilitizing weekly computerized grade recording and online reports.
- Worked with other teachers and administrators to evaluate and revise elementary school programs.
- Pursued professional development continually by attending educational conferences and teacher training workshops.
- Fostered team collaboration between students through group projects.
- Completed training courses to keep up-to-date with new teaching methods and developments in the field.
- Cooperated with parents to support students' learning and healthy development in school and at home.
- Fostered oral language development and critical thinking skills during literary discussions.
- Developed and coordinated extra-curricular activities, such as bringing in outside presenters for subject-matter related presentations.
- Planned, coordinated, and supervised four local field trips, including a 3 day trip to Northern California.
- Implemented a Native American studies program for students, utilizing special speakers and hands-on projects
- Created a unique, hands-on Science studies program, with hands-on activities and samples readily available for students.
- Utilized weekly newsletters and calendars, printed and online, for improved student, teacher, and parent communication.
- Developed and directed a yearly fourth grade California History musical presentation.
Education
Multiple Subject Clear Credential - Multiple Subjects
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CATeaching credential
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA2003
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies, Elementary Education
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA2002
Skills
- California Teaching Certificate with Elementary Education endorsement
- ELL certified
- GATE Certified
- Google G-Suite trained
- ELPAC certified
- Classroom Management
- Parent-Teacher Communication
- Technology Integration
- Extracurricular activities
- Grade level performances and events
- Expressive body language
- Collaborative teamwork
- Reliable time management
- Strong acting abilities
- Constructive criticism receptiveness
- Engaging storytelling
- Confident stage presence
- Effective audience interaction
- Adaptable performance styles
- Efficient rehearsal strategies
- Strong problem solving
- Guest relations expertise
- Flexible and adaptable
Additional Information
Proficient at Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and using SMART and interactive board technologies.
ELL qualified with conversational Spanish ability, GATE and ELPAC certified
Timeline
Entertainment Host/Character Performer
Disneyland Resort
09.2025 - Current
VAPA Theater Teacher
Orange Unified School District
10.2024 - 06.2025
Classroom Teacher
Santa Ana Unified School District
08.2021 - 10.2024
Teacher
Saddleback Valley Unified School District
08.2015 - 06.2020
4 th grade teacher
Saddleback Valley Christian Schools
09.2006 - 06.2015
Multiple Subject Clear Credential - Multiple Subjects
Azusa Pacific University
Teaching credential
Azusa Pacific University
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies, Elementary Education
Azusa Pacific University